Public Meetings - Gulfport, Florida

The Gulfport City Council met on Tuesday, January 17, 2023, at 6:00 PM at Gulfport City Hall. The meeting included the oath of office for a new fire chief, recognition of holiday decoration contest winners, unanimous approval of consent agenda and four resolutions, and discussion of two topics: recreational vehicle (RV) storage in residential areas and regulation of motorized scooters. The council also heard public comments on various items and received committee reports. Presentations - Oath of Office: Rene Fernandez was sworn in as Fire Chief by City Clerk Leslie. Chief Fernandez, a Gulfport resident since 2006, expressed his honor to serve. - Holiday Decoration Contest Winners: The commercial theme winner was the Shell Station on Gulfport Boulevard (not present). Christopher Feltman of 57th Street South accepted the general theme award. Consent Calendar - Item 5.a: The council unanimously approved the minutes of the November 15, 2022, December 6, 2022, and December 20, 2022, meetings. Motion passed by voice vote with all ayes. Public Comments & Testimony Open Public Comment (non-agenda items): - Kieran Love (South 23rd Avenue) thanked the council for service and noted improvement at the waterfront. She asked whether short-term rental enforcement would remain complaint-driven. City Manager O'Reilly responded that enforcement will still be initiated by resident complaints but will use new software and tools starting February 1, 2023. Love requested better resident communication about the process. - Melissa Helmbold (11th Ave South), President of Gulfport Merchants Chamber, reported on a successful 2022 shop local campaign and announced a strategic planning meeting and hiring of an event coordinator. - Tommy Bixler (59th Street South), President of Lions Foundation, promoted a pancake breakfast on Saturday, January 21, from 8-11 AM at the Lions Club by the marina. Public Comment on Discussion Items (RV storage and motorized scooters): - Patrick Macley (Beach Boulevard South) stated he has stored his RV in Manatee County for four years due to restrictive ordinances, costing inconvenience and expense. He supported amending rules to allow backyard storage. - Kate Seidman (Beach Boulevard, 26th Avenue) expressed interest in buying an RV but is deterred by lack of storage options. She noted boats are allowed in backyards and saw no reason for different treatment of RVs. - Jolene Weeks (17th Avenue South), a 25-year resident, said she cannot keep her small A-frame camper in her yard and relies on a neighbor's permission. She asked for parity with boat storage. - Cheryl (Gulfport resident, last name not given) observed many RVs already in the city, often violating current rules, and advocated for simpler regulations to accommodate the growing number of RV owners. - Leo (Upper Merriam Street) owns a 26-foot motor home and pays $2,600/year for storage, though it fits in his driveway. He supported changing the law. - Tommy Bixler (again) owns a camper stored in Wildwood for $200/month, noting that boats with gas are allowed in yards and argued for similar treatment for RVs. - Marlene Shaw (23rd Avenue South) bought an RV in 2020 but was cited for parking it in her backyard; she had to modify her fence to park in the front yard at great expense. She called the current ordinance nonsensical and urged amendment to align with boat and trailer rules. - Kieran Love (on scooters) urged differentiation between mobility scooters (e.g., her mother's 7 mph scooter) and faster e-bikes/scooters, and noted enforcement challenges. Discussion Items 8.a. Recreational Vehicle (RV) Storage in Residential Areas Councilmember Ray introduced the item, noting the current ordinance (enacted in 2013 after 14 meetings) requires RVs to be stored in side or rear yards with setbacks: 6 feet from side property line (15 feet on corner lots), 15 feet from rear property line, and 5 feet from any structure. RVs cannot be parked in driveways or front yards. Councilmember Ray argued that today’s RVs are higher-value and well-maintained, and that the restrictions create hardship. He presented a draft ordinance that would allow RVs anywhere on a lot (front, side, or rear), remove setbacks, and limit to one RV per lot, treating RVs like boats. City Manager O'Reilly provided history: the city has regulated RVs since 1952, with major revisions in 1977 and the current 2013 ordinance. The draft aims to simplify enforcement. Several council members expressed support for liberalizing rules but raised concerns about fire safety (Councilmember Ferdovich) and nuisance potential (Mayor Henderson). Councilmember Thanos noted the inconsistency with boat rules and suggested a single “toy” ordinance for boats, trailers, and RVs. After discussion, the council directed staff to bring back an ordinance allowing RVs in front yards, removing side and rear setbacks, and limiting to one RV per lot. The item will return for first reading. 8.b. Regulation of Motorized Scooters Councilmember Ray moved to table this discussion to a future meeting. The motion was seconded and passed without objection. Key Outcomes - Resolution 2023-01: Authorized a contract with Wetter Solutions, LLC for a keyless access system at the marina (north and south basin). Unanimously passed (5-0). - Resolution 2023-02: Approved restructuring of the Fire Department, adding a paramedic position and creating a deputy chief role, with a budget amendment. Unanimously passed (5-0). Council clarified that only one new physical position is added; the deputy chief is a reclassification. - Resolution 2023-03: Authorized purchase of replacement Police Department vehicles and emergency equipment. Unanimously passed (5-0). Council noted that hybrid/electric vehicles were not available for police pursuit use. - Resolution 2023-04 (Public Hearing): Approved a conditional use application (C22-04) for a mixed-use development (church and preschool academy) at 1844 54th Street South. The preschool will be private, with approximately 10 students, some with special needs. Unanimously passed (5-0). - RV Storage: Staff directed to prepare an ordinance amendment allowing RVs in front yards with elimination of side and rear setbacks, limited to one RV per lot. - Motorized Scooters: Discussion tabled to a future meeting.

The Gulfport City Council met on Tuesday, December 20, 2022, at 6:00 PM in Gulfport City Hall. The meeting included the approval of consent items, passage of two resolutions, a ballot lot draw for the March 2023 municipal election, a presentation from State Representative Linda Chaney on property insurance reform, and council comments on various topics, including a proposal to regulate motor scooters and a decision to cancel the January 3, 2023 meeting. Consent Calendar - Item 5.a: Council approved the minutes of the October 20, 2022 workshop and the November 1, 2022 regular meeting. - Item 5.b: Resolution No. 2022-86 authorizing the City Manager to enter into an agreement with USA Services of Florida, Inc. for street sweeping was approved. Both items were passed unanimously by voice vote. Resolutions - Resolution No. 2022-87: A resolution approving a special event application from the 49th Street South Business Association, providing for temporary waivers of city code and policies. Passed unanimously by roll call vote (Vice Mayor Brown, Councilmember Ray, Councilmember Ferdovich, Councilmember Thanos, Mayor Henderson all 'yes'). - Resolution No. 2022-88: A resolution authorizing the Mayor and/or City Manager to execute the Advantage Pinellas Housing Compact from Forward Pinellas. Passed unanimously by roll call vote (same 5-0). Discussion Items - Ballot Lot Draw for March 14, 2023 General Municipal Election: City Clerk conducted the lottery. For Ward 2 (four candidates), the order on the ballot is: 1) Jonathan McCoachy, 2) Christine Ann Brown, 3) Christopher Butler Jones, 4) Greg Simic. For Ward 4 (two candidates): 1) Michael Ferdovich, 2) Ian O'Hara. - Motor Scooter Regulation: Councilmember Ferdovich raised concerns about unlicensed motor scooter operators and requested a future discussion item. The City Manager agreed to bring back legal definitions and options for regulating operation (e.g., street use, age, helmets, night operation). This will be placed on the January agenda. - January 2023 Meeting Schedule: Council agreed to cancel the regular meeting scheduled for January 3, 2023 (due to school schedules) and hold the next meeting on January 17, 2023. Presentation by State Representative Linda Chaney - Representative Chaney (District 61) provided an overview of the recent property insurance reform special session. Key points included: reducing the time to file a roof damage claim to one year, ending assignment of benefits (AOB), stopping one-way attorney fees, providing state reinsurance, and empowering the Office of Insurance Regulation (OIR). She noted efforts to depopulate Citizens Insurance by requiring policyholders to move to private insurance if available within 20% of the Citizens rate. Flood insurance requirements for condominium owners will be clarified in the regular session starting January 3, 2023. She also reported filing a bill to name part of I-275 after Deputy Michael Hartwick. Council Comments and Informational Reports - Vice Mayor Brown: Thanked Representative Chaney for the Hartwick memorial road designation and urged residents to check on neighbors during the holidays. - Councilmember Ray: Noted progress on funding for the senior center ($1.5 million) and praised the community's festive spirit regarding parades. - Councilmember Ferdovich: Expanded on the motor scooter issue, stating that state law prohibits local licensing or insurance requirements but the city can regulate where and how scooters operate; he will bring a formal proposal to the January meeting. - Mayor Henderson: Proposed skipping the January 3 meeting, which was accepted by consensus. Also discussed a possible presentation from Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council or other experts to assess hurricane evacuation zones and flood risks, prompted by an article on Hurricane Ian's potential impact. He also suggested considering incentives for permeable pavers to reduce stormwater runoff; staff will explore permit fee adjustments. Key Outcomes - Consent calendar and both resolutions approved unanimously. - Ballot order established for Ward 2 and Ward 4. - Future meeting scheduled: January 17, 2023 (no meeting on January 3). - Council directed staff to prepare a discussion item on motor scooter regulations for the January meeting. - Council agreed to invite experts to discuss hurricane preparedness and flood risk mapping.

The Gulfport City Council held a regular meeting on Tuesday, December 6, 2022, at 6:00 PM at Gulfport City Hall. The agenda included a presentation on the Advantage Pinellas Housing Compact, the unanimous passage of four resolutions, public comments on marina policies and homelessness, and council discussions on transportation and community surveys. Meeting minutes for this date were not available. Presentations - Advantage Pinellas Housing Compact: Linda Fisher, AICP Principal Planner for Forward Pinellas, presented the Affordable Housing Compact. She provided detailed statistics on the housing crisis: a median home price of $435,000 in Pinellas County and average Gulfport rents of $1,765 per month. Fisher stated that over half of renters in the county are cost-burdened. The compact creates a countywide coalition to coordinate long-term planning through corridor development, regulatory toolkits, and support for diverse housing types such as duplexes and accessory dwelling units. She confirmed there is no cost to join. Council members reached a consensus to join the compact, directing the City Manager to prepare a formal resolution for a future meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - Ingrid Bredenberg: Reported on a community town hall held on November 14th which drew 98 attendees. She noted attendees expressed a strong desire to be involved. She formally requested that the council support a city-wide survey to gather broader community input. - Rachel (Mooring field resident): Appealed for transparency and fairness regarding the impounding of a dinghy from the Casino dinghy dock. She argued enforcement lacked proper signage and immediate towing without notice, requesting the city align its practices with its nuisance abatement ordinance. - Terry Love: Thanked the city for the holiday celebration. She questioned the enforcement priorities between dinghy dock rules and resident concerns over dog leash laws and beach conditions. She also asked for clarification on a published quote from Chief Vincent regarding public sleeping by homeless individuals. - Fred Rowe (Mobile resident): Stated the 4-hour dinghy dock limit creates a hardship for working boaters who require longer periods for work and errands. He noted the alternative marina transient dock is inconveniently located. Resolutions All four resolutions were passed unanimously (5-0). - Resolution 2022-82 (Granicus Platforms): Authorized expenditure and a budget amendment for the 2023 Granicus agenda management and short-term rental compliance software suites. - Resolution 2022-83 (Book Festival Grant): Accepted a Florida Humanities Book Festival Grant and authorized the City Manager to sign the contract and expend funds with a corresponding budget amendment. - Resolution 2022-84 (Casino AC Unit): Authorized the purchase of a 30-ton air conditioning unit for the Casino, noting a 27-week lead time. The temporary rental unit costs $6,000 per month. - Resolution 2022-85 (Sidewalk Inventory): Authorized an agreement with StreetScan Inc. for a city-wide sidewalk inventory and ADA ramp condition assessment, utilizing Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds. The city will evaluate 37 miles of sidewalks and over 700 ramps, with data delivery expected within six months. Discussion Items - City Manager Report – Rent Stabilization: Reported that Forward Pinellas advised rent stabilization is not feasible due to state legislative obstacles. - City Manager Report – Pavilion Use: Proposed an administrative rule limiting public pavilion use to a three-hour maximum (once a week) to prevent permanent encampments. The council expressed comfort in testing the rule, emphasizing the need for compassion and distinguishing behavior issues from mere presence. - City Manager Report – Dinghy Dock: Defended the 4-hour transient rule for downtown visitors. The city committed to improving signage regarding the rules and consequences. Vice Mayor Brown suggested identifying dinghies for mooring field residents to reduce unnecessary towing. - Council Reports – Freebee Transit Service: Councilmember Thanos proposed exploring a Freebee on-demand shuttle. Councilmembers Ray, Brown, and Ferdovich strongly opposed it, citing high cost and a history where a golf cart shuttle became a bar transit, referring to it as a "potato chip run". Consensus was against pursuing the service. - Council Reports – City-Wide Survey: Councilmember Thanos supported a proposal for a city-funded survey. Mayor Henderson, Councilmember Ray, and Councilmember Ferdovich opposed using city funds, stating residents have sufficient direct access to officials. Consensus was against city funding. - Council Reports – RV Ordinance: Councilmember Ray requested a future meeting to discuss tweaks to the RV ordinance, specifically the grandfather clause for aging recreational vehicles. The mayor agreed to schedule it. Key Outcomes - Unanimous Resolutions: Resolutions 2022-82, 2022-83, 2022-84, and 2022-85 passed with a 5-0 vote. - Housing Compact Joining: Council reached consensus to join the compact; a formal resolution will be drafted. - Pavilion Rule Implementation: The city manager will draft a rule to limit pavilion occupancy to three hours. - Survey & Freebee Rejected: Council reached consensus against spending city funds on the community survey and the Freebee transit service. - Future Agenda: The council will schedule a discussion on the RV ordinance grandfather clause.

The Gulfport City Council met on Tuesday, November 15, 2022, at Gulfport City Hall. The meeting included a presentation from Freebee Shuttle, second readings and public hearings on three ordinances to vacate portions of Beach Drive, and resolutions regarding a new senior center and legislative consulting contracts. Presentation - Freebee Shuttle: Claudia Miro and John presented an electric, free on-demand door-to-door shuttle service as a transit and economic development tool. They proposed a 12-month 2-3 vehicle pilot program at an average cost of $35 per hour per vehicle, funded by the city budget, FDOT grants, or advertising revenue share. Council agreed to pursue the idea. Consent Calendar - Approved the October 18, 2022 meeting minutes. - Resolution 2022-75: Authorized a purchasing agreement with SPATCO Energy Solutions for marina fuel dispensers. - Resolution 2022-76: Authorized a task order to Central Florida Contractors for the Miriam Street Sidewalk. Public Comments & Testimony - General: Joel Hine (Sea Scouts) reported on the successful Cass Point Regatta. Kelly Wright (Gulfport Merchants Chamber) promoted Shop Local and Art Walks. Tom Pitson raised concerns about subjective Conservation Overlay District guidelines. Frank Panaccio urged action on a dangerous alley cut-through behind Walgreens. Ms. Love praised Officer Zach Mills, noted improved storm response, expressed concern over homeless encampments, and asked about code enforcement. Chris Smith echoed homeless concerns. - Beach Drive Vacation: Extensive testimony was heard. Proponents (adjacent landowners, attorney Meredith Delcamp) argued the land is a platted road, mostly submerged, maintained by owners, and poses liability. They supported restrictive covenants. Opponents (including Paul Harvin, Steve Antinson, Margaret Tober) argued the shoreline is a public asset, setting a dangerous precedent, and the city charter requires a public referendum. - Senior Center: Margaret Tober strongly supported the campaign contract renewal and encouraged public donations. Susan Gore questioned whether the new facility would be open to non-seniors. Discussion Items - City Manager Report: Jerome O'Reilly announced the conclusion of litigation with Suncoast Waterkeepers. Forward Pinellas will present on a housing pact on December 6th. Council directed staff to meet further with Bogasse Yacht Club. - Beach Drive Vacation: Council debated the three ordinances (2022-13, 14, 15). Councilmembers Thanos and Ray favored a referendum or denial, citing the charter and public ownership. Vice Mayor Brown, Councilmember Ferdovich, and Mayor Henderson supported the vacation, arguing the land is unusable by the public and owners have been stewards. - Senior Center Campaign: Jason Woods (Kinetic Fundraising) reported the campaign is 40% funded ($4M of $13.1M), with a $1.5M naming gift verbally pledged. He projected 70-75% by contract end. Councilmember Thanos questioned cost escalation and funding logistics. - Lobbyist Contracts: Renewals of Shumaker Advisors (state) and Thorn Run Partners (federal) were approved. Thorn Run secured $1.5M in federal funding for senior center design. - Budget Amendments: Resolutions 2022-80 (sanitation fuel costs) and 2022-81 (marina fuel budget overrun) were approved. Key Outcomes - Beach Drive Vacation (Ordinances 2022-13, 14, 15): Passed (3-2) . (Thanos and Ray dissenting). Right-of-way vacated subject to restrictive covenants. - Senior Center Campaign (Resolution 2022-77): Approved. - State Lobbyist (Resolution 2022-78): Approved. - Federal Lobbyist (Resolution 2022-79): Approved. - Budget Amendments (Resolutions 2022-80 & 81): Approved.

The Gulfport City Council met on Tuesday, November 1, 2022, at 6:00 PM. The meeting opened with a presentation for the Halloween Decoration Contest winners, followed by public comment on neighborhood disputes, code enforcement, and park facilities. The primary focus of the evening was the first reading of three ordinances to vacate the unbuilt right-of-way known as Beach Drive along Clam Bayou, which resulted in a 3-2 vote in favor. The council also unanimously approved second readings for several pension plan amendments and a lease agreement with the Gulfport Historical Society. Consent Calendar - Council unanimously approved the meeting minutes from October 4, 2022. Public Comments & Testimony - Jonathan Robert (1012 Fremont St): Described an ongoing conflict with a neighbor, stating he obtained an injunction for harassment. He criticized the police response and asked the city to enforce code violations on the adjacent property. - Kieran Love (23rd Ave S): Thanked the council for hiring another code enforcement officer. Questioned the status of the tennis and pickleball court renovations, which she stated were expected to be complete in March 2022 but have been stalled for five to six weeks. She also raised concerns about homeless encampments. - Ingrid Bredenberg (Gulfport Votes 100%): Encouraged voting and promoted an upcoming town hall event focused on finding common ground post-pandemic and post-hurricane. - Margaret Tover (59th St): Asked about disparities in utility standby rates and inquired about the process for correcting billing errors. - Lean Navarro (58th St): Asked about progress on installing Wi-Fi at the Catherine Hickman Theater. Discussion Items Beach Drive Right-of-Way Vacation (Ordinances 2022-13, 2022-14, 2022-15) The council conducted the first reading and public hearing for three ordinances seeking to vacate a 50-foot-wide right-of-way known as Beach Drive. The parcels, located along Clam Bayou, have never been improved as a road and are largely submerged or covered in mangroves, having been treated as private backyards for decades. The Planning and Zoning Board had recommended approval with conditions, including a 10-foot utility easement and a covenant prohibiting development to maintain a natural shoreline. Applicant Arguments: Attorney Meredith Delcamp (representing applicant Tanya Foray) argued the 1913 plat did not contain express language dedicating Beach Drive to the city as a road, only the riparian rights. She argued the dedicated use was specifically a road, which is now impossible, and that vacating the land codifies the status quo. Emily Lumsden, another applicant, stated her property line is only 12 feet from the easement and that public access would pose a significant safety risk to her family. Jimmy Neveker, a 30-year resident, noted the easement is just feet from his bedroom and expressed desire for privacy. They all expressed willingness to agree to the preservation conditions. Opposition Arguments: Neighbor Paul Herman, who has a pending lawsuit against the city, argued the property was dedicated to the public and that vacating it violates the city's Comprehensive Plan, which he stated mandates that shoreline access not be diminished. He cited City Manager O'Reilly's sworn testimony that Beach Drive provides public access. He characterized the issue as a matter of public principle and argued the decision must ultimately go to a public referendum. Council Deliberation: Councilmembers Thanos and Ray voiced opposition, citing concerns over setting a precedent and giving away waterfront property. A debate occurred regarding a potential public referendum under Charter Section 103. The City Attorney advised that a referendum was a possible path but was not strictly required by the charter if the land did not meet the specific definitions of park, beach, or recreational lands, which he argued it did not. The council ultimately decided to proceed with the vote. The City Attorney noted a related lawsuit was active but that no court had issued an injunction preventing the city from moving forward. Key Outcomes - Beach Drive Vacation (First Reading): The council voted 3-2 to approve the first reading of all three ordinances (2022-13, 2022-14, 2022-15). Voting yes: Vice Mayor Brown, Councilmember Ferdovich, Mayor Henderson. Voting no: Councilmember Thanos, Councilmember Ray. The second reading and public hearing is scheduled for November 15, 2022. A pending court case over the property remains active. - Pension Plan Amendments (Second Reading): Unanimously approved with final passage: - Ordinance 2022-09 (Firefighters' Pension Fund) - Ordinance 2022-10 (Police Officers' Trust Fund) - Ordinance 2022-11 (General Employees' Pension Plan) - Gulfport Historical Society Lease (Second Reading): Unanimously approved Ordinance 2022-12, authorizing a 5-year lease agreement for city facilities. - BCYC Lease: Council discussed the Boca Ciega Yacht Club lease proposal. The city manager was directed to provide the latest proposal to council members prior to the December 6th meeting, with a goal of reaching a resolution by January. - City Manager Report Updates: - The tennis and pickleball court contractor is still active, and an updated timeline will be provided. - Wi-Fi equipment for the Catherine Hickman Theater remains on backorder. - The individual at the house on 26th Ave and Beach Blvd was determined to be a family member of the property owner.

October 20, 2022 | 6:00 PM | Gulfport City Hall The Gulfport City Council held a workshop meeting to discuss two major topics: rent stabilization (rent controls) and short-term rental regulation and enforcement. The meeting included presentations from City Manager Jim O'Reilly and City Attorney Andy Salzman, followed by extensive public comments and council deliberation. No binding votes were taken, but council provided clear direction on next steps. Public Comments & Testimony Rent Stabilization (Item 2.a) - Leonard Gukenheimer (5213 Dillet Ave) urged council to fund a study to document the housing situation, suggesting local universities and volunteer surveys could help. - Coley (no address given) spoke about the need to keep Gulfport affordable for artists and creative residents, noting that low rent allowed him to contribute to the community. - Noreen Smith (3831 54th St S) reported her rent increased from $775 to $1,200 in 13 months, with another increase expected. She strongly supported a rent stabilization referendum. - Karen Schwartz (5213 Dillet Ave) proposed forming a coalition of landlords willing to cap rents voluntarily out of compassion, rather than relying on regulation. - Jonathan McCoachy (Baywood Point Dr) expressed skepticism about rent control effectiveness, citing unintended consequences like conversion to short-term rentals. He advocated building more affordable housing. - Charlene Trimmer (DuPont St S) questioned the study's value given rising insurance costs and previous failed affordable housing projects in the area. - Robert Salta (1407 Gray St) cited economic studies showing rent control makes housing worse in the long run. He urged council to consider the study's findings objectively. - Laura (property manager, Seaside Villa's) detailed rising property insurance ($2,000/unit increase in two years) and taxes ($1,300/unit in five years), arguing that rent caps would hurt maintenance. - Hory (Seaside Villa's employee) noted that occupancy and rents are beginning to cool in the area. - Karen Love (no address) opposed a study and rent control, stating supply and demand determines prices. She favored converting illegal short-term rentals to long-term. - Additional speaker (unnamed) advocated public-private partnerships for affordable housing. - Maureen McCormick (5306 26th Ave S) noted Orange County has a rent control referendum on the November 2022 ballot, suggesting council review that study. - Margaret Tober (no address) thanked staff for information and supported a study, while clarifying that the Holy Name affordable housing project failed due to density and diocese issues. Short-Term Rental Regulation (Item 2.b) - Laura (4920 27th Half S) spoke in favor of short-term rentals, explaining she uses Airbnb to supplement income, provides housing for traveling nurses and artists, and does not want to convert to long-term rentals. - Karen Love again urged enforcement of the existing ordinance, stating illegal short-term rentals contribute to the housing crisis. - Charlene Trimmer reported that some homeowners are illegally splitting houses into two units (top/bottom) without proper permits. - Michael Castleman (5870 27th Ave S) emphasized the need for enforcement, noting the majority of the 321 identified short-term rental units are outside permitted zones. He suggested grandfathering existing units or expanding zones. - Regina Buscemi (no address) demanded enforcement of existing rules, stating that many residents have been forced out by unregulated short-term rentals. - Jerry (27th off 58th St) recounted his successful effort to document and report a neighbor's illegal vacation rental, with assistance from Code Enforcement Officer Mark Taylor. He urged a zero-tolerance policy. - Walter Barker (Trader Windows Dr) condemned the city for placing enforcement burden on citizens and supported hiring a dedicated code enforcement officer and purchasing software. - Albert (5414 19th Ave S) questioned why the city can't demand that platforms like Airbnb stop listing illegal rentals in Gulfport. - Jonathan McCoachy suggested creating a public portal for nuisance complaints (noise, etc.) to target problem properties without a citywide crackdown. - Maureen McCormick shared her negative experience living near unregulated short-term rentals on Anna Maria Island and urged enforcement to preserve neighborhood character. Discussion Items 2.a. Processes, Establishment, Application, Implementation and Enforcement of Rent Stabilization City Manager O'Reilly presented the statutory framework: to enact rent control, the city must draft an ordinance supported by a study documenting a housing emergency

The Gulfport City Council met on Tuesday, October 18, 2022, at 6:00 PM at City Hall. The meeting included public comments regarding a disputed land vacation, approval of consent items, three pension ordinance amendments, a lease agreement with the Gulfport Historical Society, and appointment of a trustee to the Police Pension Board. Council members also provided informational reports on regional planning, electric vehicles, and upcoming events. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from August 16, September 6, and September 20, 2022. - Approved Resolution 2022-73 setting the 2023 Municipal General Election date for Tuesday, March 14, 2023, and authorizing the City Manager to contract with the Pinellas County Supervisor of Elections to conduct the election for Ward 2 and Ward 4 Council positions. (Motion passed unanimously) Public Comments & Testimony - Albert (resident, property across from Tomlinson Park): Expressed concern about the city vacating disputed land (Beach Road/beach drive) to adjacent homeowners. Argued that buyers knew the land was public, that setting a precedent could affect other public lands (e.g., his own first 10 feet), and questioned the benefit to the 12,000 Gulfport residents. Asked for a map of all undeveloped public lands. - Walter Barker (Trade Winds Drive): Criticized the zoning meeting on the land vacation, noting lack of security despite a packed room and palpable anger. Stated that lawyers were rational but the process devolved into recriminations against those wanting to keep land public. Recommended training for the zoning board on decorum and suggested moving the next meeting to the Hickman due to high interest. Discussion Items - City Manager's Report: No report. Staff clarified that a map (the original plat, known as the "King's map") showing public streets, alleys, and vacated lands is available at City Hall. - Ordinance 2022-09 (Firefighters' Pension Fund): Amended Chapter 15, Article IV to provide more flexibility in investment asset allocation and bring the plan into compliance with the Internal Revenue Code. City Manager noted a minimal financial impact of 0.1%. Approved unanimously. - Ordinance 2022-10 (Police Officers' Pension Fund): Amended Chapter 15, Article V similarly for flexibility and IRS compliance. No financial impact. Approved unanimously. - Ordinance 2022-11 (General Employees' Pension Plan): Amended Chapter 15, Article VI for flexibility and IRS compliance. No financial impact. Approved unanimously. - Ordinance 2022-12 (Lease with Gulfport Historical Society): Authorized the City Manager to enter into a lease agreement with the Gulfport Historical Society, Inc. for managing the museum and Briar Hall Art Center. Councilmember Ray proposed an amendment to remove the additional five-year renewal option, making the initial term five years without automatic renewal, to ensure consistency with other lease agreements. The motion was amended and approved unanimously. - Resolution 2022-74 (Police Pension Board Trustee): Appointing a trustee to the Municipal Police Officers' Pension Board. Councilmember Fridovich moved to appoint Vicki Grant, citing her extensive experience. No second was received. Councilmember Thanos then moved to appoint Dan Lecky. Councilmember Fridovich opposed, preferring Grant's experience. Councilmember Thanos argued that Lecky is known to council and that applicants should introduce themselves. Vice Mayor Brown supported Lecky. The motion passed 3-1 (Councilmember Thanos voted no). Dan Lecky was appointed. - Council Comments/Informational Reports: - Councilmember Fridovich: Announced appointment to the Executive Budget Committee of the Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council. - Councilmember Thanos: Reported on Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council and Forward Pinellas meetings. Topics included lessons from Hurricane Ian (buried utilities, tiny houses, building codes), the Alice (Asset Limited, Income Employed) population, missing middle housing, affordable housing market study, US 19 transit, electric vehicle adoption (Florida second in nation but behind in charging stations), EV-ready housing, and PSTA's district dedicated transport and potential freebie service. Noted a resiliency action plan webinar on October 25 and a coalition meeting on October 28. - Councilmember Ray: Reported on her town hall meeting, where residents raised concerns about short-term rentals and code enforcement. City Manager O'Reilly clarified that code enforcement is primarily staff-initiated (not complaint-driven), with only about 3% of cases from complaints; data is in the October 20 agenda packet. - Vice Mayor Brown: Announced a town hall on November 14 at the Casino, building on previous town halls to gather community input on likes, dislikes, threats, and opportunities for Gulfport. - Other announcements: October Fest on Saturday at Veterans Park; Homecoming week at Boca Ciega High School with game Friday; beach playground shades removed for playground replacement; gecko light bulb at the beach was damaged by Hurricane Ian and replacement is pending. Key Outcomes - Approved consent agenda (minutes and election resolution). - Approved all three pension ordinances (2022-09, 2022-10, 2022-11) unanimously. - Approved Ordinance 2022-12 with amendment to remove the additional five-year renewal option (unanimous). - Appointed Dan Lecky as trustee to the Police Pension Board (3-1 vote). - Council received updates on regional planning, code enforcement data, and upcoming events. - Meeting adjourned.

The Gulfport City Council held its regular meeting on Tuesday, October 4, 2022, at 6:00 PM in Gulfport City Hall. The meeting included a presentation recognizing Citizens Police Academy graduates, public comments on various topics, unanimous approval of the consent agenda, and passage of several resolutions related to special events, vehicle purchases, and building services. Council members also provided informational reports and discussed hurricane preparedness, community events, and potential code changes. Consent Calendar - Resolution 2022-61: Authorized a purchase order with Retro Production Company for Wednesday Night Swing and Second Friday Soul/Disco dance services at the Gulfport Casino. (Approved) - Resolution 2022-62: Authorized the City Manager to enter into an agreement with Rileighs Outdoor, LLC (dba Clark Sales Display) for holiday decoration services. (Approved) - Resolution 2022-63: Authorized a contract with Asphalt Paving Systems, Inc. for yearly roadway milling and resurfacing. (Approved) - Resolution 2022-64: Authorized a purchase order with Rush Truck Center for sanitation vehicle repairs. (Approved) - Resolution 2022-65: Authorized the purchase of shade sails for Tomlinson Park playgrounds from Creative Shade Solutions, Inc., including an associated budget amendment. (Approved) Public Comments & Testimony - A resident thanked city staff for hurricane preparation and cleanup, noted a dog bite incident where Gulfport Rescue responded promptly, praised the improved city newsletter, and expressed concern about the loss of resident artists due to short-term rentals and lack of ordinance enforcement. She stated that registration for the Gulfport Art in the Yard event had dropped from 88 to 52 artists year-over-year. - Another resident expressed appreciation for the Citizens Police Academy, the city newsletter's inclusion of council member reports, and urged the city to preserve Beach Street as a green space and habitat. He also commended the city's hurricane response. - A resident presented a prototype litter prevention sign and requested its consideration for placement in parks. - A resident voiced displeasure about the removal of Zoom access for public comment, citing poor user experience (hard-to-find link, odd camera angles, lack of timer) and argued that a small group of disruptive users should not eliminate accessibility for others. He suggested a better sign-up vetting process instead. - A resident invited the community to the grand reopening of the Gulfport Arts Center on October 7, 2022, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Discussion Items - Citizens Police Academy Recognition: Police Chief Robert Vincent recognized seven graduates of the 2022 Citizens Police Academy, a free eight-week program covering police operations, jail tours, crime scene processing, and firearms training. Four graduates were present to receive certificates. - Special Events Resolutions (7.a - 7.d): The council considered and passed several special event waivers, including the annual calendar of city-sponsored events (Resolution 2022-66), a Unity of Gulfport event (2022-67), a Gulfport Merchants Chamber fine arts festival in Veterans Park (2022-68), and the 11th annual VETSports Heroes Weekend tied to Veterans Day (2022-69). All passed unanimously. - Vehicle and Equipment Purchases (7.e - 7.f): The council authorized the purchase of a Toro Workman utility vehicle for baseball fields and beach use (Resolution 2022-70), and purchase of two work trucks from Alan Jay Chevrolet with auction of surplus trucks 1305 and 1674 (Resolution 2022-71). Both passed unanimously. - Building Services Agreements (7.g): Resolution 2022-72 authorized the City Manager to enter into agreements with Pinellas County and SAFEbuilt/M.T. Causley for overflow building inspections and plan review. Passed unanimously. - Council Informational Reports: Councilmember Fridovich discussed a town hall meeting scheduled for October 8, 2022, at the Casino (1:00-6:00 PM), featuring arts and culture, and noted that he is funding it personally. Councilmember Thanos raised interest in hurricane flood zone data to assess future risks, reported on Suncoast League of Cities meetings regarding affordable housing (noting HB 1339 allows affordable housing in commercial zones), and proposed a discussion on requiring permeable pavers instead of concrete for driveways and patios. The council agreed to schedule a discussion on pavers for a November meeting, but councilmember Brown expressed hesitancy about mandating private property changes. Vice Mayor Brown thanked staff for hurricane response, promoted the Lions Club dance on October 15 ("Gulfport Gets Laid" Hawaiian dance), and thanked volunteers. Councilmember Ray proposed a pet benefit event on October 16 at the Stangerine stage to raise funds for Fort Myers pets, and requested a Black History Month flag raising ceremony on February 1, 2023, similar to the Pride flag event. Councilmember Ray also suggested replacing worn city welcome signs with more eye-catching designs, focusing on parks without existing signs; the council supported the idea. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved unanimously by voice vote. - Resolutions 2022-66 through 2022-72: All passed unanimously (5-0) by roll call votes. - Future Discussion Item: The council directed the City Manager to schedule a discussion on permeable pavers for a November 2022 meeting. - Sign Redesign: Council agreed to explore replacement of worn city signs with new, more eye-catching designs as needed, particularly in parks without existing signs. - Volunteer Appreciation: Council members and the mayor expressed gratitude to city staff, CERT volunteers, and emergency responders for their work during Hurricane Ian, and urged continued preparedness.

The Gulfport City Council held its regular meeting on September 20, 2022. The council unanimously adopted the FY 2022-2023 millage rate and operating budget, passed a significant restructuring of utility rates, and authorized final sewer infrastructure projects. The meeting was dominated by extensive public testimony concerning a police incident and broader issues of racial justice and housing affordability. Public Hearings - Ordinance 2022-07 (Millage Rate): The Council unanimously approved a levy of 4.039 operating mills for fiscal year 2022-2023. This represents a 14.38% increase over the rolled-back rate of 3.5312 mills. - Ordinance 2022-08 (Operating Budget): The Council unanimously adopted the operating budget for the fiscal year beginning October 1, 2022, and ending September 30, 2023. Public Comments & Testimony - Excessive Force Incident: Multiple speakers, including Bryce Graham (National Network, Central Florida chapter), the family of a 15-year-old girl, and Akira Amanda (Activism News Network), spoke about an incident involving a Gulfport police officer. They alleged excessive force against the minor, criticized the Police Chief's comments on the city's Facebook crime watch page, and highlighted an IA investigator contacting the victim's mother directly. They demanded a full and transparent investigation, the suspension of the officer, and accountability from the city. - Racial Discrimination: Mr. Lee accused the city of a history of ignoring racial discrimination complaints and stated that the city has weaponized police against residents who voice concerns. He also claimed a councilmember's family member used racial slurs. - Rent Control and Housing: Elizabeth Hendrix (Town Shores resident) expressed strong support for rent control and restricting short-term rentals. She stated that 70% of Gulfport's long-term rentals have been lost and that she faced a 38% rent increase. She urged the council to adopt tenant protections and notice requirements similar to the Pinellas County model. - General Call to Action: A resident urged the council to directly address racial issues, rent affordability, and Airbnb regulation, telling the council that "not to decide is to decide." Discussion Items - Utility Rate Restructuring (Ordinances 2022-03, 2022-04, 2022-05, 2022-06): The Council held second readings and unanimously passed a comprehensive restructuring of water, sewer, stormwater, and garbage rates. City Manager O'Reilly explained the transition from a minimum-gallon billing system to a base charge plus volumetric charge system. There will be no rate increase in fiscal year 2023, followed by an 8% increase for water and sewer in fiscal years 2024 and 2025. The ordinance authorizes the City Manager to waive administrative and delinquency fees on a case-by-case basis. - Sanitary Sewer Repairs (Resolution 2022-59): The Council authorized the City Manager to execute agreements with Miller Pipeline LLC and Cardno Inc. for Priority Two sanitary sewer repairs. This marks the conclusion of settlement agreements from the 2016 storm litigation. $600,000 in ARPA funds were allocated for these repairs, focusing on areas south of 28th Avenue. - Lift Station No. 2 Loan (Resolution 2022-60): The Council unanimously approved an amendment to the State Revolving Fund loan agreement with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. The project is at 95% completion. The Public Works Director reported that wet weather flow has been reduced from over 1 million to 800,000 gallons per day. - Continuation of Zoom Meetings: The Council discussed discontinuing Zoom for regular meetings to encourage in-person attendance, citing low usage (1-2 callers) and a cost of $500-600 per month. The Council directed staff to retain the option for special workshops and large city events. A resident, Susan Gore, advocated for the hybrid model for events like ReadOut. The City Manager will explore alternative platforms like Microsoft Teams or Google Meet for these events. Key Outcomes - Votes: All ordinances (2022-07 through 2022-08, 2022-03 through 2022-06) and resolutions (2022-59, 2022-60) were passed unanimously on 5-0 votes. - Next Steps: The City Manager was directed to enforce no-overnight parking restrictions at Trolley Market Square Park and the Tangerine Greenway. - Tenants' Rights: The City Manager confirmed the city is covered by the Pinellas County Tenants' Bill of Rights. - Upcoming Events: Councilmember Ray announced a Town Hall (Oct 12th) and a workshop (Oct 20th) focused on the rental crisis and short-term rentals. - Hurricane Preparedness: Vice Mayor Brown urged residents to have a hurricane plan and find high-ground shelter solutions for themselves and their pets.