The meeting commenced with a discussion regarding the budget for the Parks and Recreation Department, particularly the Sanding Ovations event. Kathy, representing the department, highlighted a substantial increase in the budget for various Capital Improvement Projects, amounting to $296,000. This includes a notable $3,740 increase specifically allocated to Sanding Ovations, now tracked in a separate account for enhanced transparency. The event, celebrating its 16th year, is scheduled for November 21-24 and November 30-December 1. Kathy outlined this year’s theme, “Gallery of S,” and mentioned preparations, including t-shirts, are underway.

Kathy detailed the event’s accolades, noting that in 2022, Treasure Island was recognized as one of the top 20 best beaches in America. In 2024, it was named the second finalist in the Besties award by Visit St. Pete Clearwater. The event’s economic impact on the county was reported as $9.4 million, benefiting Treasure Island and neighboring beaches. New initiatives for Sanding Ovations include a more diverse entertainment lineup, free transportation from off-site parking, and an increased advertising budget funded by $775,000 from Visit St. Pete Clearwater. Despite the event typically being revenue-neutral, rising expenses have led to ongoing efforts to seek sponsorships.

The commission engaged with Kathy regarding the budget items for Sanding Ovations, questioning the absence of prior year budget history. Kathy clarified that this is the first year costs are delineated separately, providing a clear view of the expenses associated with Sanding Ovations, totaling nearly $400,000. Weather conditions have impacted attendance and revenue in previous years, affecting the event’s financial outcomes.

The discussion transitioned to the city’s parking program, where minimal changes were reported. A reduction in capital expenses was linked to the acquisition of a new hybrid vehicle. Concerns were raised about parking enforcement, particularly staffing levels that leave gaps in coverage on Wednesdays and after 7 PM. This prompted a discussion about potentially increasing staffing for parking enforcement, with suggestions for part-time positions or expanded roles for existing staff to include additional ordinance enforcement on the beach.

The Chief of Police expressed skepticism about part-time positions based on past difficulties in filling such roles, advocating for full-time positions with broader responsibilities beyond parking enforcement. The possibility of staggered schedules to ensure consistent coverage throughout the day was discussed. Comments were made regarding the success of Madeira Beach, which reportedly generated $600,000 to $700,000 from parking fees, more than Treasure Island. A suggestion was made to consider hiring an additional full-time parking enforcement officer to enhance the city’s capacity to enforce existing ordinances and manage parking effectively. The current parking enforcement staff, consisting of two full-time officers, has achieved record numbers in parking tickets and revenue, although the primary goal is not to increase ticket issuance but to improve parking management.

Public comments included perspectives on parking enforcement, with calls for increased commercial development to generate revenue rather than relying heavily on parking fees. One resident highlighted examples from nearby areas where parking is free due to support from thriving businesses. Another public comment emphasized the importance of treating parking as a defined business within the city, stressing the need for a structured business plan that maximizes revenue through effective management and enforcement without solely focusing on ticket issuance.

The meeting then transitioned to discussions about transit services, noting a decrease in operational expenses due to the cancellation of expanded transit options in the fiscal year 2024 budget. New rates for paratransit services were mentioned, with fixed rates established for the next five years, while trolley service costs were expected to increase at a set rate over that period.

Library services were also covered, with a noted increase in contract costs of over 6%, aligning with prior reductions directed by other cities. The potential for parking program revenues to offset library budget increases was mentioned, emphasizing the integration of various city services and funding strategies.

A significant portion of the meeting focused on the condition of public facilities, particularly the Public Works building and Treasure Bay improvements. The former Public Works garage’s condition was discussed, with a proposal for demolishing the old Public Works Administration building and City Hall anticipated in the coming months. Attention turned to Treasure Bay improvements, with the budget allocated for replacing windows and storefronts, along with stucco and paint repairs. Commission members noted visible deterioration at Treasure Bay, including cracks in windows, falling stucco, and significant termite damage requiring treatment. The urgency of addressing these repairs was highlighted, with scheduled termite treatment on October 10. Concerns about the extent of damage that might be uncovered if repairs were initiated prematurely were raised.

Suggestions were made regarding the viability of investing in the existing clubhouse versus considering a prefab building that might better serve future needs. The commission expressed a desire to avoid excessive expenditure on a structure that might not meet long-term objectives, emphasizing the need to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of renovating the current structure versus building new facilities.

The discussion covered various infrastructure projects, focusing on the West Causeway improvements. The need to enhance the landscape and drainage systems was emphasized, with proposals including an intermediate option to elevate the West Causeway by about one foot. Concerns about the timing and necessity of a workshop discussion to gather resident feedback were expressed, particularly from those living along the affected lanes. The potential conflicts between immediate construction plans and the need for a comprehensive understanding of drainage and elevation issues before further expenditures were made were highlighted.