In a detailed public comment session, Mark Hoy questioned the validity of the data supporting the Elevate TI program, meant to address rising sea levels. Hoy criticized the use of outdated data, some of which were 7 to 11 years old, in the city’s consultant engineer’s report. He pointed to newer NOAA data from 2022, showing a slower rate of sea level rise and reduced projections for future sea levels. Hoy argued that the city should pause the program until more reliable data is reviewed, emphasizing, “the rush to approval and implementation is not necessary.”

Following Hoy, Ray Tuning offered both praise and criticism. He commended the Sembler family and the fire department for their contributions to the community but also addressed the Elevate TI program. Tuning clarified that residents are not denying climate change but are concerned about the program’s potential impact on their homes and investments. He questioned the logic behind elevating some structures to different heights. Tuning urged the commission to listen to residents’ concerns and proposed organizing a workshop for better engagement between city staff and residents.

The meeting also highlighted the city’s response to a recent tropical storm. Several officials, including Vice Mayor and Commissioner Toth, commended city staff and first responders for their professionalism and proactive measures during the storm. The Vice Mayor noted the community’s cooperation and adherence to safety protocols, expressing relief that Treasure Island experienced minimal damage compared to surrounding areas.

Commissioner Dicky detailed the storm’s impact on Sunset Beach, reporting significant erosion. He noted that the drop from the seawall to the sand increased from one-and-a-half feet to four feet post-storm, raising concerns about the potential for homes to fall into the sea if no action is taken on beach nourishment. Dicky highlighted the urgency of the situation and the slow progress with the Army Corps of Engineers on renourishment projects. He emphasized the need for better communication with residents regarding these efforts and mentioned ongoing interactions with state representatives to expedite policy changes.

The city manager elaborated on the extensive preparations and responses by various departments during the storm. The Public Information Officer was credited for keeping residents informed through multiple platforms.

In other business, the commission unanimously approved the first reading of Ordinance 2024 D10, which concerns vacating approximately 1,122 square feet of Sunshine Lane. The ordinance retains a utility easement over the area, and the staff report clarified that the right-of-way is not a through street and does not affect pedestrian access. During the discussion, a commissioner raised concerns about the financial implications of vacating the property, but it was clarified that the land would revert to the adjoining property owner if vacated.

The commission also extended contracts with two building department service providers, Mt. Cosley and Joe Payne Inc., each agreeing to a 3% increase for the upcoming term. The city manager noted that these contracts had improved service levels and reduced complaints regarding backlog issues. The commission expressed satisfaction with the arrangement and unanimously approved the one-year contract renewal, authorizing the city manager to execute the necessary agreements with a spending authority up to $500,000 for the renewal period.