The meeting opened with the firefighter contract being moved to the forefront of the agenda. The discussion on this item was intense due to the implications of the substantial pay raise. Concerns were raised about the size of the increase, with questions regarding the necessity of such a measure considering current open positions and turnover rates. The city manager explained the rationale behind the increase, highlighting the need to remain competitive to attract qualified paramedics. After thorough deliberation, the commission unanimously approved the agreement.

In addition to the firefighter contract, the meeting delved into various community and development issues. One of the more engaging community proposals was from a member of the public suggesting distributing koozies filled with trash bags to beachgoers to encourage cleanliness on the beaches. This initiative was presented as a proactive measure to maintain the beach’s beauty and was met with encouragement from others.

A quasi-judicial proceeding regarding a variance request for a swimming pool encroaching into a 10-foot setback brought to light the complexities of local regulations. The discussion was tabled until a future date when the erosion control line (ECL) is established, with both the applicant and the commission acknowledging the need to understand the impact of the ECL before proceeding. Questions arose regarding the implications of the ECL and its significance in Treasure Island, a unique factor in the area’s regulatory landscape.

Environmental considerations continued with presentations from the Clearwater Marine Aquarium and the Treasure Island Adopted Beach program. Wendy HCK from the aquarium discussed sea turtle nesting results and the effects of lighting and human activities on nesting, while Carrie Arbuck from the Adopted Beach program highlighted the success of beach cleanups, the installation of cigarette receptacles, and the upcoming beach ambassador program.

The commission also addressed infrastructure and beautification projects. Discussions revolved around the Paradise Island landscaping project, which involved replacing damaged palm trees and freshening up the median with new landscaping centered around light poles. Questions were raised about the project’s impact on existing low voltage and communication lines, maintenance plans, and the potential effects of hurricane season.

Another major topic was the resolution to update the Parks and Recreation facilities rental policy. Changes proposed included designating city facilities for use by Treasure Island not-for-profit groups and amending the fee schedule for renting facilities. The commission moved to appoint Mary Beth Wetzel as the new alternate member to the Gulf Beaches Public Library Board.

Financial contributions to the city were also a point of discussion. The commission approved a $1,000 donation from the Gulf Beaches Rotary Club to the Parks and Recreation Department for the summer camp scholarship fund and a payment of $6,215.38 from the same club for the city’s percentage of the net profits from an annual Golf and Tennis challenge.

The meeting further addressed operational matters, such as the authorization of spending not to exceed $70,000 for the replacement of the IT data system backup and an update on the living shoreline project. The city manager provided insights into the project’s progress, including the collaboration with State lands to identify boundary lines.

Landscaping and construction on Paradise Boulevard were also contentious points, with debates on the allocation of budgeted funds. Discussions on drainage issues on Paradise Lane highlighted the urgency of addressing infrastructure problems, and members debated the feasibility of a 3-5 year timeline for the Elevate TI project, which seeks grant funding for drainage and landscaping improvements. The commission decided to obtain cost estimates for different landscaping options and committed to revisiting the budget allocation for the project, taking into account public safety and community aesthetics.