A central focus of the meeting was the ongoing erosion at the Cape, with homeowners and council members alike expressing deep concern over the threat to properties. Kelly Mills, a resident since 2003, underscored the economic stakes, highlighting that tourism, vital to the local economy, could suffer dramatically if erosion issues remain unresolved. Mills revealed that tourism at the Cape contributes over $2.25 million annually, a portion of the county’s revenue. The council acknowledged the budgetary constraints they face, with Mills urging them to explore phased approaches to beach nourishment to manage costs effectively.

Moreover, the council grappled with the complexities of federal permits necessary for erosion control projects. Frustration was voiced over the slow pace of federal agency approvals, which has persisted for nearly a year. The council discussed the high costs of recent project bids compared to initial estimates, attributing the disparity to limited competition among contractors and rising construction costs. There was a call to engage state representatives for support and funding.

The meeting also delved into the technical intricacies of defining coastal structures, particularly the distinction between retaining walls and seawalls. The council debated the legal ramifications of permitting repairs and the authority of building officials in interpreting these definitions, with references to existing county codes and the Florida building code. An emergency approval was sought to expedite repairs without requiring a variance, emphasizing the urgency of protecting properties from further damage.

Amid these discussions, temporary erosion control measures, such as the use of “trap bags,” were proposed. These geo-fabric bags are designed to capture sand and build up the dune system but are considered a short-term solution. Concerns were raised about setting a precedent for temporary repairs without a plan, and the council suggested issuing a provisional allowance for their use, stressing the importance of not exacerbating erosion.

In addition to erosion-related issues, the council addressed infrastructure projects, including a bid for construction on Lake Grove Road and Bird Parker Drive. However, bids for other projects like the White City Water Plant and the St. Joe Peninsula Beach renourishment faced rejection due to high costs and logistical challenges, such as the sea turtle nesting season complicating timelines.

Administrative items also featured prominently, with the council approving a memorandum of understanding for a low-water crossing on S Creek Road.