Treasure Island Commission Proposes Key Waste Management Overhaul
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Meeting Type:
City Council
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Meeting Date:
06/04/2024
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Recording Published:
06/04/2024
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Duration:
169 Minutes
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State:
Florida
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County:
Pinellas County
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Towns:
Treasure Island
- Meeting Overview:
In a recent meeting, the Treasure Island City Commission discussed a series of issues, with the most significant being the first reading and public hearing for ordinance 2024-257, which proposes major amendments to chapter 38, Recycling and Waste Management, of the city code. The ordinance aims to improve safety and accessibility for waste collection services by revising enforcement procedures, penalties, and customer duties across single family, multifamily, and commercial sectors.
The need for the ordinance was underscored by a report that highlighted eight injuries or accidents related to waste management in the past year, half of which could have been avoided with better dumpster enclosure conditions. The proposed changes include stricter maintenance requirements for dumpster enclosures, the specification of maximum slopes for dumpster access routes, and the sizing of rolling surfaces and pads for commercial customers. Approximately 19 properties are not in compliance with the proposed changes, emphasizing the necessity for better enforcement to improve overall waste management practices.
The commission also tackled the city’s approach to fireworks, considering the enforcement of existing ordinances rather than issuing a ban. The city manager, the city attorney, and the police chief discussed the challenges posed by the increased use of fireworks and the need to protect the local turtle population, with the city manager noting that public education and social media campaigns would be employed to discourage the use of personal fireworks.
Another topic was the authorization of a $60,000 purchase order to Harbor Side Fleet Solutions LLC for vehicle repair services. The city manager sought to rectify an oversight that led to the city exceeding its authorized spending limit for fleet services, prompting a discussion on the allocation of funds and the potential impacts on various city departments.
Beach renourishment was on the agenda, with the city manager detailing the ongoing preparation for Pass-a-Grille and the need to secure easements for Treasure Island. The mayor was requested to seek legislative support for obtaining the necessary easements. Additionally, the Treasure Bay bid was discussed, highlighting the city’s preference for a single bid on both the golf course and the living shoreline projects to simplify coordination, while also being open to multiple bids if more advantageous.
The meeting progressed to a debate on the draft Treasure Island downtown mobility plan, which proposed intersection improvements at 104th Avenue, 106th Avenue, and First Street East. The goal was to enhance connectivity and safety for all road users. Concerns were raised about the high cost estimates of the improvements and the potential impact on traffic patterns and pedestrian safety. Commission members and public commenters voiced differing opinions on the necessity and design of the improvement project, ultimately reaching a consensus on specific aspects of the plan.
The financial update for fiscal year 2024 quarter 2 was presented, revealing that the city had collected 46% of its budgeted revenue and incurred 40% of budgeted expenses. The report showed strong performance in utility tax and franchise fees, but a notable shortfall in local business tax collection, which will be subject to further analysis. The commission reviewed the financial health of various city funds, including the penny capital fund, building fund, utility funds, and storm water fund, focusing on strategic investment decisions to optimize interest earnings.
Tyler Payne
City Council Officials:
J. Tyler Payne, Deb Toth, John Doctor, Bob Minning, Beth Wetzel
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Meeting Type:
City Council
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Meeting Date:
06/04/2024
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Recording Published:
06/04/2024
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Duration:
169 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
Florida
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County:
Pinellas County
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Towns:
Treasure Island
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