A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the trail amenities master plan, with the board considering a $40,000 contract with Kimley Horn for consulting services. The project aims to align the new strategic plan with existing efforts and potentially update it as needed. However, some citizens voiced concerns that the planning process lacked sufficient input from the local biking community. One resident highlighted past experiences where community feedback was overlooked, leading to projects that did not meet local needs. They urged the board to ensure that the new study incorporates diverse opinions, particularly from local cyclists, regarding amenities like signage and lighting.

In response, a board member emphasized the importance of utilizing available city property along the bike path to enhance amenities. They proposed transforming a vacant city-owned site into a resting spot for cyclists. To address the concerns raised, a motion was proposed to include a public engagement meeting as part of the contract with Kimley Horn to gather fresh community input. The motion received broad support, with suggestions to involve stakeholders from the Space Coast Transportation Planning Organization and the Greenway Trails Coalition to enrich the community engagement process further.

The role of consultants, particularly Kimley Horn, was a recurring theme throughout the meeting. One resident expressed dissatisfaction with the firm’s recent parking study, claiming it failed to account for significant parking spaces behind City Hall and in Space View Park. The speaker suggested that the city staff could have conducted the study more effectively, questioning the necessity of outsourcing to out-of-town consultants. This sentiment was echoed during the discussions on the trail amenities plan. Some attendees argued for leveraging local expertise to achieve better outcomes.

The meeting also covered a beautification grant application from the First United Methodist Church of Titusville. The church sought financial assistance for painting and repairing four buildings within the downtown area. Sue Williams, a planner, explained that while painting is typically not covered under the CRA’s exterior beautification grant, it could be included due to its connection with necessary repairs. The total cost for the improvements was $85,520, with the CRA reimbursing 50%, amounting to $42,760. After some discussion, the board unanimously approved the grant request, recognizing the church’s historical significance and long-standing service to the community.

Another important topic was ongoing flooding issues in the Baker’s subdivision. A resident spoke about the legality of constructing a dam downstream of homes in the 100-year floodplain, attributing responsibility for recent flooding incidents to the city. They criticized the city’s inaction since the concerns were first raised in 1985 and urged the board to consider the financial implications for residents. The board acknowledged the issue, although specific actions or resolutions were not decided during the meeting.

The meeting wrapped up with discussions on pedestrian safety, particularly the absence of a designated crossing between Space View Park and the park across the street. A member raised this issue, noting the expected increase in foot traffic during upcoming launches. The board agreed to keep this matter in mind, despite it not being budgeted.

The Executive Director’s report contained informational items but did not require any board action. The meeting concluded with a reminder of the next scheduled gathering.