The proposed summer camp fee adjustments took center stage as the commission discussed raising rates to align with neighboring municipalities. The current fee structure charges residents $120 per week and non-residents $140 per week, with no sibling discounts. The proposed increase would set a 10-week fee at $1,000 for residents and $1,200 for non-residents, representing a 42.5% hike for residents and a 33% increase for non-residents. Weekly rates would remain unchanged, but a 10% sibling discount would be introduced.

The commission explored various options for implementing the fee increases, including immediate adoption, maintaining current rates with future planning, or a phased approach. A scholarship fund, currently at $5,600 and largely funded by community donations, was discussed as a means to support families affected by the fee hikes. The potential involvement of a local credit union as a sponsor was also considered to offset costs.

Despite the proposed increases, there was a consensus that resident families valued the camp, with commissioners noting a lack of complaints about the higher fees. The meeting also addressed the need for timely registration information, as demand for summer camp spots grew. A target of 25 additional enrollments was suggested to mitigate potential financial shortfalls, with the commission recognizing the importance of maintaining quality programming.

Concurrently, the possibility of a local business employee parking permit program was considered to address parking challenges faced by employees. The program aims to provide affordable access to designated parking areas, reducing enforcement issues related to towing and citations. While the initiative is framed as cost-neutral, concerns were raised about the availability of parking zones during peak business hours, potentially limiting access for patrons.

A commissioner highlighted that certain zones, primarily used by city employees, would be unavailable for business employees, raising skepticism about the program’s effectiveness. Public comments further emphasized the impact of high parking fees on local businesses, with suggestions for additional parking solutions such as designated golf cart areas.

The meeting also delved into procedural changes for the City Commission, with discussions about modifying rules to allow remote voting and participation via platforms like Zoom or Teams during emergencies. Some commissioners expressed concerns about proposed changes that would enable the city manager and mayor to cancel or reschedule meetings without a majority vote, emphasizing the importance of maintaining commission control over meeting schedules.

In other matters, the commission reviewed financial reports, noting the city’s reserves and the financial implications of ongoing projects. A proposed ordinance to increase summer camp rates was approved without substantial discussion, alongside several other ordinances related to land development and budget amendments for dune walkover repairs.

Community events were also highlighted, including a chili cook-off hosted by Treasure Island Fire Rescue and a “Connor’s Neighborhood Cleanup” initiative. Discussions about the scenic walkway at Land’s End and Mansions by the Sea revealed resident dissatisfaction with the current sand walkway, calling for a more ambitious replacement that reflects public expectations.