The proposed PD ordinance was the focal point of the meeting, sparking debate among commissioners and community members. The ordinance aims to create a framework for planned developments in Treasure Island, with provisions for unified ownership control and reimbursement mechanisms for expenses incurred during the review of PD applications. This was only the first reading, allowing room for modifications and further discussion before a second reading. Concerns were raised regarding the inclusion of the RFM30 zoning category, with some arguing it should be excluded due to its primarily residential nature. This exclusion is seen as necessary by some commissioners who believe that keeping RFM30 in the ordinance could limit development options.

Public opinions varied widely, with some community members expressing strong support for the ordinance as a way to introduce diverse architectural designs and enhance community resilience, especially in the face of future storms. Others voiced concerns about the ordinance’s potential to enable property owners to bypass existing land development regulations, effectively nullifying local height and density limits. Calls for the inclusion of safeguards in the ordinance were made to prevent drastic changes in community character. There were also discussions about the ordinance’s progression pace, with some suggesting it should align with the master planning process to ensure comprehensive community support and input.

Infrastructure projects were another prominent topic, with updates provided on ongoing and planned projects. The assistant city manager and public works director outlined the status of various initiatives, including the Living Shoreline, Rosali Pickle Ball Courts, and the Tampa Bay Clubhouse renovations. A grand opening for the Sunset Beach Pavilion was announced for June 4th, along with updates on new walkovers and Third Street repaving on Isla Capri. Ongoing projects along 108th Avenue, such as the public safety complex and master pump station replacement, were highlighted, with the need to prioritize structural projects over aesthetic improvements emphasized.

The seawall project on 108th Avenue was also discussed, with specifications finalized and construction soon to be advertised. This seawall aims to protect new facilities from future sea level rise. There were discussions regarding docks and fueling facilities, which may require zoning code revisions. Estimated construction costs for these projects range between $18 million and $20 million. The potential for grant funding up to $20 million was highlighted, with matching funds of $6 million to $8 million required.

Financial updates included a second-quarter report for 2026, with discussions on how to present financial data effectively. Notable variances in wastewater revenue were attributed to reductions in flow, leading to savings on expenses. The building fund showed promising early revenue performance, primarily due to increased permits. Concerns were raised about the wastewater fund being below budget, with explanations linking this to lower flow rates. A $1.1 million loan from the building fund was discussed, with plans to repay the general fund at the fiscal year’s end. Property tax revenue for the first six months was reported at $9.6 million, with expectations of increased parking revenue.

Some speakers urged prioritizing infrastructure projects over cosmetic improvements, emphasizing the need to complete essential safety infrastructure before pursuing revenue-generating projects. Others expressed concerns about the potential for vague language in the ordinance to lead to inconsistent applications and potential lawsuits against the city.