Public Meetings - Gulfport, Mississippi

The Gulfport City Council met on Tuesday, December 20, 2022, at 6:00 PM at Gulfport City Hall. The meeting included a presentation from State Representative Linda Chaney on property insurance reform, approval of two resolutions (special event and housing compact), a lottery to determine candidate name placement on the March 14, 2023, general municipal election ballot, and council comments on motor scooter regulation, hurricane preparedness, and incentives for permeable pavers. The consent agenda was passed unanimously. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: Minutes from the October 20, 2022, Workshop and November 1, 2022, Regular Meeting were approved. - Street Sweeping Agreement: Resolution No. 2022-86 authorizing the City Manager to enter into an agreement with USA Services of Florida, Inc. to sweep curbed streets was approved. - Both consent items passed unanimously by a voice vote. Presentation: State Representative Linda Chaney - Representative Chaney discussed the goals of the recent state special session on property insurance reform: to curb excessive litigation driven by bad-actor attorneys and roofers filing questionable claims through Assignment of Benefits (AOB) and to stabilize the insurance market. - Key reforms included: - Reducing the claim-filing window from two years to one year after a storm. - Eliminating one-way attorney fees (so all parties have "skin in the game"). - Banning AOB assignments. - Requiring insurers to acknowledge claims within 7 days (down from 14) and conduct physical inspections within 30 days. - Adding an option for binding arbitration to lower premiums. - Providing $20 million in community funding in the previous session. - She noted that the state added $150 million to reinsurance and empowered the Office of Insurance Regulation (OIR) with more funding and staffing. - Councilmember Ray (who works for Progressive Insurance) asked about bundling auto and home insurance, and about flood insurance requirements for Citizens policyholders. Representative Chaney stated that flood insurance for condominium owners will be clarified in the regular session starting January 3, 2023. Resolutions - Resolution No. 2022-87: Approved a special event application from the 49th Street South Business Association, including a temporary waiver of certain city code provisions. Passed unanimously (5-0). - Resolution No. 2022-88: Authorized the Mayor and City Manager to execute the Advantage Pinellas Housing Compact from Forward Pinellas. The City Manager noted a presentation had been given at a prior meeting. Passed unanimously (5-0). Discussion Items - Election Ballot Lot: The City Clerk conducted a lottery for candidate name placement on the March 14, 2023, General Municipal Election ballot. - Ward 2 (four candidates): 1st – Jonathan McCoachy, 2nd – Christine Ann Brown, 3rd – Christopher Butler Jones, 4th – Greg Simic. - Ward 4 (two candidates): 1st – Michael Ferdovich, 2nd – Ian O'Hara. Council Comments / Informational Reports - Vice Mayor Brown thanked Representative Chaney for honoring the late Deputy Michael Hartwick by naming a portion of I-275 after him. She encouraged residents to check on neighbors during the holidays. - Councilmember Ray praised the holiday spirit and noted that a $1.5 million funding request for the senior center is progressing. He also highlighted the upcoming golf cart parade. - Councilmember Ferdovich raised concerns about unlicensed motor scooter operators and suggested regulating their operation (e.g., minimum age 15, helmet requirement, ban on sidewalk riding). The City Manager agreed to bring a discussion item to the January meeting with legal definitions of micro-mobility devices (excluding electric bicycles). - Mayor Henderson proposed skipping the January 3, 2023, meeting due to school schedules, with consensus to hold the first meeting on January 17, 2023. - Councilmember (unidentified) requested a presentation from Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council or USF on realistic hurricane flooding and evacuation zone scenarios, especially for Category 4 storms. The Mayor and City Manager agreed to coordinate. - Mayor Henderson suggested offering incentives (e.g., reduced permit fees) for property owners to install permeable pavers to reduce runoff and pollution. Councilmember followed up that current right-of-way permits for driveways are $72 and for patios $113 plus a plan review fee. The idea was noted for future discussion. Key Outcomes - Approved consent agenda items and two resolutions unanimously. - Conducted ballot-order lottery for the March 14, 2023, election. - Directed staff to bring a motor scooter regulation discussion item to the January 17, 2023, meeting. - Scheduled a future presentation on hurricane preparedness and flooding maps. - Canceled the January 3, 2023, meeting; next meeting set for January 17, 2023.

The Gulfport City Council met on December 6, 2022, at 6:00 PM at Gulfport City Hall. The meeting included a presentation on the Advantage Pinellas Housing Compact, public comments on dinghy dock enforcement and homeless issues, approval of four resolutions, and council discussions on a possible trolley service, a community survey, and an RV ordinance review. Presentations - Linda Fisher, AICP Principal Planner from Forward Pinellas, presented the Advantage Pinellas Housing Compact, a countywide initiative to address housing affordability. She noted that the median sales price for a single-family home in Pinellas County is now $435,000, and average rent in Gulfport is $1,765 per month. The compact aims to increase housing diversity, promote transit-oriented development, and provide technical assistance and model ordinances to local governments. Council expressed support and reached consensus to join the compact; a resolution to formalize participation will be brought forward. Public Comments & Testimony - Ingrid Bredenberg (2701 56th Street South) thanked the city for the tree-lighting event and provided an update on the November 14 community conversation town hall (98 attendees). She requested the city conduct a citywide survey to gather broader resident input, noting that a survey tool (SurveyMonkey) is available through the city. - Rachel (resident of the Gulfport municipal mooring field) asked for clarification on the impounding and towing of tenders at the dinghy dock. She argued that no notice or warning was given before her tender was towed, and she requested better signage and a fairer enforcement process. - Ms. Love praised the tree-lighting event and the bathrooms being open, but expressed concern about homeless encampments and enforcement priorities. She questioned a reported quote from Chief Vincent that "you cannot make it illegal just because the person is homeless" and asked for clarification. - Fred Rowe (resident on a sailboat) spoke in support of boaters, stating that the four-hour limit on the dinghy dock causes hardship for working people and that the dock can hold many dinghies. He asked for consideration of longer hours. Discussion Items - City Manager Report: Jim O'Reilly reported that a rent stabilization study with Forward Pinellas was determined not feasible due to legislative obstacles. He proposed a three-hour maximum use rule for beach pavilions (except pavilion six) to address encampment issues, with enforcement once per week per person. Council discussed the idea but did not take a vote. Regarding the dinghy dock, the four-hour limit is intended for transient use; council members debated enforcement and possible accommodations for mooring field residents. The city manager also presented options for the Bogasega Yacht Club negotiations: either direct staff to negotiate or ask for a final proposal. Council supported option one (staff negotiation). - Resolutions: - Resolution 2022-82: Authorized expenditure for 2023 Granicus platforms (agenda management and short-term rental software). Passed unanimously. - Resolution 2022-83: Accepted a Florida Humanities Book Festival grant and authorized the city manager to sign the grant contract. Passed unanimously. - Resolution 2022-84: Authorized purchase of a 30-ton air conditioning unit for the Casino from United Air Conditioning and Heating, Inc. (replacement due to salt-air corrosion). Passed unanimously. - Resolution 2022-85: Authorized use of Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds for a citywide sidewalk inventory, ADA ramp data collection, and condition assessment by StreetScan Inc. (piggybacking on Pinellas County's contract). Passed unanimously. - Council Comments: - Vice Mayor Brown thanked staff for the tree-lighting event and promoted the high school play "Clue." - Councilmember Ray requested a future agenda discussion on the RV ordinance, specifically the grandfather clause, citing resident concerns. Council agreed to schedule it. - Councilmember Thanos raised the idea of a freebie trolley service (Freebee) and a citywide survey, but the majority of council (Mayor Henderson, Councilmember Ray, Councilmember Ferdovich, and Councilmember Thanos after discussion) opposed both due to cost and duplication of existing engagement channels. No consensus to move forward. Key Outcomes - All four resolutions (2022-82 through 2022-85) passed unanimously. - Council reached consensus to join the Advantage Pinellas Housing Compact; a formal resolution will be prepared. - City Manager and City Attorney were directed to negotiate with the Bogasega Yacht Club to seek a mutual agreement. - The city manager will improve signage at the dinghy dock regarding enforcement. - A future discussion on the RV ordinance (grandfather clause) was agreed upon. - No action was taken on the freebie trolley service or the proposed citywide survey.

The Gulfport City Council met on Tuesday, November 15, 2022, at 6:00 p.m. at Gulfport City Hall. Councilmember April Thanos gave the invocation, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. The agenda included a Freebee shuttle presentation, public comment, reports from the city manager, attorney, and clerk, consent items, three second-reading Beach Drive vacation ordinances, a Senior Center capital campaign resolution, legislative consultant renewals, and budget amendments. The council approved the three Beach Drive ordinances by 3-2 votes and the remaining resolutions unanimously. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda listed approval of the October 18, 2022 council minutes; Resolution 2022-75 authorizing a SPATCO Energy Solutions, LLC purchasing agreement for marina fuel dispensers; and Resolution 2022-76 authorizing a Miriam Street Sidewalk task order with Central Florida Contractors, Inc. - The raw transcript shows the clerk reading the minutes and Resolution 2022-75, then the meeting moving to the ordinances; it does not capture an explicit roll-call vote on the consent items. Presentation: Freebee Shuttle - The agenda listed John Janusz, Director of Economic Development, but the lead presenter identified herself as Claudia Miro, joined by her colleague John. Freebee is a free, on-demand, door-to-door, 100% electric shuttle service using a mobile app, with vehicles including low-speed "gem" cars, Tesla Model Xs, and electric vans. - Freebee operates about 100 vehicles in more than 20 communities and proposed a 12-month pilot with customizable service areas and hours. Costs were estimated at roughly $35 per hour per vehicle, with a typical minimum of 40-48 hours per week. Funding options included city budgets, FDOT grants, advertising revenue sharing, businesses, and CRAs. - Presenters said drivers are "community ambassadors" with background checks, 70% of riders are women, and driver pay starts around $13 per hour with built-in raises. Council questions covered service-area boundaries, charging, reservations, tipping, driver pay, and preventing abuse. - No formal action was taken on the Freebee proposal. The mayor said the city would pursue the idea and would need consensus on it. Public Comments & Testimony - Joel Hine, Gulfport Sea Scouts skipper, reported that the Cass Point Regatta returned after a two-year COVID pause with 60 scouts and 40 adults, and that his ship won first overall. He invited teenagers to join the Sea Scouts. - Kelly Wright, representing the Gulfport Merchants Chamber of Commerce, announced two First Friday Art Walks on December 2 and January 6 with waived booth fees for local Gulfport artists, and a Shop Local receipt drawing on December 17 at the Third Saturday Indie Fair. - Tom Pitson expressed concern that conservation overlay district design guidelines are open to interpretation and are being applied by a single planner, delaying his WRD artist studio project. He asked council to review the guidelines. - Frank Panaccio described an alley behind Walgreens being used as a cut-through, said traffic data did not match his safety concerns, and requested a no-through-traffic sign or speed bumps. - Ms. Love praised Officer Zach Mills, noted improved city storm response during Tropical Storm Nicole, said homeless encampments at beach pavilions are growing, and asked whether a code enforcement position for short-term rentals had been posted. - Chris Smith raised safety and sanitation concerns about people living in beach pavilions and parking lots, including encampments and public urination/defecation. - Susan Gore announced the Readout 2023 conference on February 17-19, a $10,000 Florida Humanities grant, and a benefit classical guitar concert at the Gulfport History Museum. City Manager Report - City Manager O'Reilly said Linda Fisher from Forward Pinellas will attend the December 6 meeting to discuss a housing compact. - He recognized Clay Lott and staff for completing the sewer/lift station bypass project, ending litigation with Suncoast Waterkeepers 59 days before the deadline. - On the Boca Ciega Yacht Club proposal, the city manager and city attorney sought direction. Council directed them to meet once more with the club, and council members agreed to email their input. Ordinances: Beach Drive Vacations (2022-13, 2022-14, 2022-15) - The council held second-reading public hearings on three ordinances vacating segments of Beach Drive in Clam Bayou. City Manager O'Reilly said the revised ordinances include restrictions recommended by the Planning and Zoning Board. - The applicants' attorney argued that the platted right-of-way is a road, not a beach; the city never intends to build it; vacating with restrictive covenants is the proper way to preserve it; public access would create safety, trespass, and liability risks; and a referendum is neither legally required nor practical. - Several neighboring and applicant speakers supported vacation, citing private maintenance, safety concerns, and the area's lack of usable beach or road. Opponents, including neighborhood residents and public-access advocates, argued the city should not give away public shoreline, that charter protections should trigger a referendum, and that preservation can occur without vacating. - Council debate included concerns about precedent. Councilmembers Thanos and Ray voted no, with Ray citing the need to follow charter process and allow public referendum. Brown, Ferdovich, and Henderson voted yes, arguing the land is largely eroded, unbuildable, and best protected by the applicants' stewardship and deed restrictions. Resolutions: Senior Center, Lobbyists, and Budget Amendments - Resolution 2022-77 renewed the Senior Center capital campaign management contract with Hartsook/Kinetic. Jason Woods reported a campaign goal of about $13.1 million, roughly $4 million raised including $1 million in federal funds and about 40% of the goal, with a verbal $1.5 million naming pledge, a $1 million secured gift, and a $500,000 pledge received that day. He said 120-125 prospects remain and the goal is 70-75% by the end of the contract. Council approved the contract with an amendment to use the new company name Kinetic. - Resolution 2022-78 renewed Shumaker Advisors, Florida, LLC for state legislative consulting and resilience grant work. It passed unanimously. - Resolution 2022-79 renewed Thorn Run Partners for federal legislative consulting. The city manager said the firm helped secure $1.5 million in federal funds for design and engineering of the Senior Center. It passed unanimously. - Resolution 2022-80 amended the FY2021/2022 operating budget for the sanitation fund, including $157,000 for fuel and economic changes. It passed unanimously. - Resolution 2022-81 amended the FY2021/2022 operating budget after the marina director overspent by $500,000 to buy fuel; the fuel is sold at a markup. It passed unanimously. - Public comment on the Senior Center resolution included Susan Gore asking whether the new building would be available to non-seniors and how the long timeline would be addressed, and Margaret Tober speaking in support of renewal. Council Comments & Informational Reports - Councilmember Thanos reported that her town hall drew 96 attendees and described a presentation on 3D-printed living seawalls that she shared with the city manager. - Vice Mayor Brown announced the 31st annual Operation Santa will begin Monday, November 28, and the Christmas tree lighting will be Monday, December 5 at 6 p.m. - Councilmembers Ray and Ferdovich had no reports. Mayor Henderson thanked everyone and moved to adjourn. Key Outcomes - Ordinance 2022-13 (Beach Drive between 44th Street and the north-south alley) passed 3-2. - Ordinance 2022-14 (Beach Drive between Quincy Street and the north-south alley) passed 3-2. - Ordinance 2022-15 (Beach Drive between Quincy Street and the east city boundary) passed 3-2. - Resolution 2022-77 passed 5-0 with the company name amended to Kinetic. - Resolutions 2022-78, 2022-79, 2022-80, and 2022-81 passed 5-0. - The council directed the city manager and city attorney to meet again with Boca Ciega Yacht Club and invited council input by email. - The consent agenda items were read, but no separate roll-call vote was recorded in the transcript.

The Gulfport City Council met on Tuesday, November 1, 2022, at 6:00 PM in Gulfport City Hall. The meeting lasted over three hours, concluding after 9:00 PM. Key actions included first-read approval of three ordinances to vacate portions of Beach Drive (a never-built street), second-read approval of three pension-related ordinances, and a lease agreement with the Gulfport Historical Society. Public comment featured concerns about code enforcement, neighbor disputes, and homeless encampments. Presentation - Halloween Decoration Contest Winners: The commercial theme was won by Gulfport Beach Bazaar (absent). The general theme winner, Dana Paplinski, was present and congratulated. Public Comments & Testimony - Jonathan Robert (1012 Fremont St.): Expressed frustration with a neighbor, Mr. Daniel Donalley, alleging abusive and violent behavior. He stated that despite multiple police calls, the Gulfport Police Department was unhelpful. He noted that a Pinellas County judge had issued an injunction against the neighbor on behalf of four neighbors. He urged the city to enforce code violations on the neighbor's property. - Kieran Love (23rd Ave. S.): Thanked the council for deciding to hire another code enforcement officer. Asked about the status of the tennis courts (said to be finished March 2022, but still not done after 5-6 weeks) and raised concerns about homeless encampments, including a man at pavilion 3 who threatened her life and another at 26th Ave. & Beach Blvd. - Ingrid Bredenberg (2701 56th St. S.): Represented Gulfport Votes 100%, encouraging voter turnout for the November 8 election (targeting 88% from 2020). Invited citizens to a "Finding Common Ground" town hall on November 14, co-produced with Councilmember Thanos. - Margaret Tover (59th St.): Questioned utility rate anomalies for empty lots on standby and asked about correction of billing errors. - Ilean Navarro (58th St.): Asked for progress on installing Wi-Fi at the Catherine Hickman Theater, noting it was in the budget a year ago. - Paul Herman (44th St.): Opposed the Beach Drive vacation, presenting a petition with 25 signatures from the two-block area and 67 online signatures. Argued the right-of-way was dedicated to the public, that the city's comprehensive plan prohibits diminishing public shoreline access, and that vacation would set a bad precedent. City Manager Report - Wi-Fi: Equipment for the theater and other facilities is on backorder; installation will proceed once delivered. - Tennis/Pickleball Courts: Contractor is still on the job; a better timeline will be provided after checking with staff. - House at 26th Ave. & Beach Blvd.: Police determined the person camping there is a family member of the property owner. - Veterans Day Parade: Sunday, November 6 at 11:00 AM. Consent Calendar - Minutes of October 4, 2022: Approved unanimously (5-0). Discussion Items 1. Beach Drive Right-of-Way Vacations (Ordinances 2022-13, 2022-14, 2022-15) – First Reading Three separate ordinances to vacate segments of Beach Drive (a platted but never-built 50-foot-wide right-of-way, now mostly submerged and overgrown with mangroves) were considered. Planning & Zoning Board had recommended approval with conditions: a 10-foot utility easement for water/sewer lines, a hold harmless indemnity agreement, and restrictions prohibiting development and requiring a living shoreline. - Planning staff (Mike Taylor) explained the process and noted that the city has no plans to build a road there. - Applicant attorneys and property owners (Meredith Delcamp for Tanya Foray; Emily Lumsden; Jimmy Neviker) argued that Beach Drive has been de facto private for over 100 years, is largely eroded, and that vacation would preserve the status quo, protect privacy, and allow continued stewardship by the owners. They contended the plat did not dedicate the land as a road, only the riparian rights. - Opponent Paul Herman and his spouse Steve Antinson argued that the land was dedicated to the public, that the city's comprehensive plan requires maintaining shoreline access, and that vacation would violate charter Section 103 (requiring referendum for sale/alienation of beach access lands). - City Attorney noted an ongoing lawsuit by Mr. Herman (seeking declaratory judgment on public/private access) but stated no court had enjoined the proceedings. - Council discussion centered on conditions, the potential for a referendum, and whether vacation sets a precedent. - Votes: All three ordinances passed 4-2 (Councilmembers Thanos and Ray voting no, with Brown, Ferdovich, Henderson, and Mayor in favor). Second reading and public hearing set for November 15, 2022. 2. Pension Fund Amendments (Ordinances 2022-09, 2022-10, 2022-11) – Second Reading & Public Hearing Three ordinances amending the Firefighters’ Retirement Pension Fund, Police Officers’ Trust Fund, and General Employees’ Pension Plan. City Manager had no additional comments. All passed unanimously (5-0). 3. Lease with Gulfport Historical Society (Ordinance 2022-12) – Second Reading & Public Hearing Authorized a five-year lease for the Historical Society to use two city buildings (Briar Hall and the History Center). The society pays for insurance, internet, and phone; the city pays utilities and lawn maintenance. The lease includes an automatic renewal by exchange of letters. Passed unanimously (5-0). Key Outcomes - Votes on Beach Drive Vacations (3 ordinances) : Approved 4-2 each (Thanos and Ray dissenting). Second reading scheduled for November 15, 2022. - Votes on Pension Amendments: All three approved unanimously (5-0). - Vote on Historical Society Lease: Approved unanimously (5-0). - Referendum Discussion: Council discussed but did not commit to putting the Beach Drive vacation to a referendum under Charter Section 103. Staff will provide additional information on the BCYC (Boca Ciega Yacht Club) lease proposal for a future council discussion targeted for resolution by January 2, 2023.

The Gulfport City Council held a workshop on October 20, 2022, at 6:00 PM (agenda time) to discuss two major policy topics: rent stabilization (rent control) and short-term rental regulation and enforcement. City Manager James O'Reilly and City Attorney Andrew Salzman provided legal and procedural overviews. Public comment was heard on each item, and council gave specific staff direction for further action. Public Comments & Testimony - Rent Stabilization: Several residents spoke in favor of pursuing a study to document a housing emergency, citing personal rent increases (one speaker reported a jump from $775 to $1,200 in 13 months, with more expected). Others opposed rent control, arguing it has failed elsewhere and leads to unintended consequences (e.g., conversion to short-term rentals, decreased property maintenance). A few speakers suggested alternative solutions such as public-private partnerships for affordable housing or zoning changes to allow duplexes/triplexes. - Short-Term Rentals: Many residents urged stronger enforcement of the existing ordinance, describing noise and disruption from illegal Airbnbs. Some noted the burden on citizens to file complaints and document violations. A few short-term rental operators explained they provide housing for traveling nurses and artists and contribute to local tourism. One speaker suggested creating a public complaint portal. Discussion Items - 2.a. Rent Stabilization: City Manager O'Reilly outlined state requirements: pass an ordinance supported by a housing emergency study, then place a one-year rent control measure on a referendum for voter approval. The study must establish a “grave housing emergency.” Council discussed costs (unknown), timeline (next possible referendum November 2023), exemptions (e.g., single-family homes as in Tampa’s proposal), legal risks under the Bert Harris Act, and the political climate. Councilmember Thanos noted that commercial properties can now be used for affordable housing under a new state law. Vice Mayor Brown expressed doubt about proving an emergency given regional affordability trends. Council ultimately directed staff to: (1) contact Forward Pinellas to inquire about available studies, (2) obtain cost estimates and criteria for a potential study, and (3) post the Pinellas County Renters’ Bill of Rights on the city website. - 2.b. Short-Term Rental Regulation and Enforcement: City Manager O’Reilly explained that Gulfport’s pre-2011 ordinance is grandfathered but enforcement is currently complaint-driven and resource-intensive. Only five complaints were filed this year. Two approaches were considered: zero-tolerance (send violation notices to all identified illegal operators) or complaint-driven enforcement with new tools. Council heard that software packages can identify rentals by scraping listings and cross-referencing property records; estimates show 321–400+ unique short-term rental units (4–6% of housing stock). Councilmember Ray proposed hiring a second code enforcement officer and purchasing such software. After discussion, council directed staff to: (1) advertise and hire an additional code enforcement officer, (2) evaluate and purchase short-term rental identification software (estimated cost $25,000), and (3) implement a complaint-driven enforcement model – once a complaint is received and a violation confirmed, the city will pursue it and also investigate any other violations discovered during the process. The council did not support an immediate zero-tolerance approach. Key Outcomes - Rent Stabilization: Staff will research the feasibility and cost of a housing emergency study and report back to council. No formal vote was taken. - Short-Term Rentals: Council gave clear direction (unanimously) to hire a second code enforcement officer and acquire identification software. Enforcement will be complaint-driven, but staff will act on all violations once identified. - The Renters’ Bill of Rights will be made available on the city’s website. - Council stressed that citizens will still need to provide their name and evidence when filing a complaint, as state law prohibits anonymous complaints, but the software will ease the burden of documentation.

This meeting of the Gulfport City Council was held on Tuesday, October 18, 2022, at 6:00 PM at Gulfport City Hall. Vice Mayor Brown presided in the absence of Mayor Henderson. The council approved consent items, three pension-related ordinances, a lease agreement with the Gulfport Historical Society (with an amended term), and appointed a trustee to the Police Pension Board. Public comments addressed a controversial land vacation issue and meeting decorum. Consent Calendar - Approved the council meeting minutes of August 16, 2022, September 6, 2022, and September 20, 2022. - Approved Resolution No. 2022-73, establishing the date of the 2023 Municipal General Election as 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. (Passed unanimously, voice vote.) Public Comments & Testimony - First speaker (Albert, resident near Tomlinson Park) expressed strong opposition to vacating public land (the disputed "Beach Drive" area) to private homeowners, stating that residents knew the land was public when they purchased their homes. He raised concerns about setting a precedent for other public lands and questioned the benefit to the city's 12,000 residents. He also requested a map of all undeveloped public land. - Walter Barker (Trade Winds Drive) commented on a recent Planning & Zoning Board meeting about the same land vacation. He noted a lack of security at a packed, heated meeting, and criticized the board's handling of decorum, recommending training for board members. He also urged the council to move the next meeting to the larger Hickman venue due to anticipated high attendance. Discussion Items - Ordinance No. 2022-09 (Firefighters' Pension Fund): Amended Chapter 15, Article IV regarding definitions, finances, and pre-retirement death provisions to allow more flexible asset allocation and IRS compliance. City Manager noted a minimal financial impact of 0.1%. Passed unanimously (roll call: 4-0). - Ordinance No. 2022-10 (Police Officers' Trust Fund): Similar amendments to the police pension plan; no actuarial impact. Passed unanimously. - Ordinance No. 2022-11 (General Employees' Pension Plan): Amendments providing investment flexibility and housekeeping; no actuarial impact. Passed unanimously. - Ordinance No. 2022-12 (Lease with Gulfport Historical Society): Authorized the City Manager to execute a lease for the museum (operated since 1981) and Briar Hall art center. Councilmember Ray proposed an amendment to strike the additional five-year renewal option, making the lease term a straight five years for consistency. The motion was amended accordingly and then passed unanimously. - Resolution No. 2022-74 (Appointment to Police Pension Board): Two applicants were considered: Vicki Grant (experienced in investment management) and Dan Lecky. A motion for Ms. Grant failed for lack of a second. A subsequent motion for Dan Lecky was seconded. Council discussion favored Mr. Lecky on the basis that he was a known resident and that Ms. Grant had not contacted council members. Mr. Lecky was appointed by a 3-1 vote (Fedovich, Ray, Brown in favor; Thanos opposed). Council Comments/Informational Reports - Councilmember Fedovich announced his appointment to the Executive Budget Committee of the Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council. - Councilmember Thanos reported on recent Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council meetings, covering Hurricane Ian lessons (buried utilities, mobile home alternatives, building codes), the ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) demographic, missing middle housing, EV charging infrastructure (Florida lags behind in stations despite high adoption), and a planned presentation on a "Freebie" trolley service. She also noted that the SunRunner (PSTA rapid transit) would launch on Friday, October 21. - Vice Mayor Brown reported on his town hall meeting (lightly attended), where short-term rentals and code enforcement were the main topics. He clarified that code enforcement is proactive, not complaint-driven, with only about 3% of cases initiated by complaints. He also announced upcoming events: October 20 workshop on short-term rentals and the rental crisis; October 22 Oktoberfest at Veterans Park; homecoming week at Bogue; and replacement of beach playground (shades removed during construction) and the Gecko light bulb (damaged by Hurricane Ian). Key Outcomes - All consent items approved. - All four ordinances passed (Ordinances 2022-09 through 2022-12), with Ordinance 2022-12 amended to remove the five-year renewal option. - Dan Lecky appointed as trustee to the Municipal Police Officers' Pension Board for a term set by resolution. - The council received updates on regional planning, code enforcement statistics, and upcoming city events.

The Gulfport City Council held its regular meeting on Tuesday, October 4, 2022, at 6:00 PM at Gulfport City Hall. The meeting included a presentation recognizing Citizens Police Academy graduates, public comments on hurricane preparedness and city policies, unanimous approval of consent items, and passage of eight resolutions. Council members also provided updates on upcoming events and community initiatives. Presentations - Police Chief Robert Vincent recognized seven graduates of the 2022 Citizens Police Academy. Four graduates were present to receive certificates. The program had been paused in 2020 and 2021 due to the pandemic. Consent Calendar - Resolution No. 2022-61: Authorizing a purchase order to Retro Production Company for Wednesday Night Swing and Second Friday Soul/Disco dance services at the Gulfport Casino. - Resolution No. 2022-62: Authorizing an agreement with Rileighs Outdoor, LLC (dba Clark Sales Display) for holiday decoration services. - Resolution No. 2022-63: Authorizing a contract with Asphalt Paving Systems, Inc. for yearly roadway milling and resurfacing. - Resolution No. 2022-64: Authorizing a purchase order to Rush Truck Center for sanitation vehicle repairs. (Councilmember Thanos noted the trucks have specialized equipment – a crane and marine boat hauler – explaining the heavier vehicle choice.) - Resolution No. 2022-65: Authorizing purchase of shade sails for Tomlinson Park playgrounds from Creative Shade Solutions, Inc., including an associated budget amendment. - All consent items passed unanimously by voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - A resident thanked city staff for hurricane preparedness and cleanup, praised the improved newsletter, noted that the Gulfport Art in the Yard event (scheduled for November 5) has seen artist participation drop from 88 last year to 52 this year – attributing this to residents moving away due to rent control and short-term rental issues. The speaker also criticized the city for failing to enforce the short-term rental ordinance. - A second resident expressed appreciation for the Citizens Police Academy and for the city newsletter now including voluntary monthly reports from all four council members. They urged Mayor Henderson to also submit a monthly report. The speaker also advocated for preserving Beach Street as a green space/habitat rather than developing it. - A third resident presented a prototype of a litter awareness sign and asked the city to consider replacing existing signs with more eye-catching designs. - A fourth resident expressed displeasure with the removal of Zoom public comment access, arguing that the feature was hard to find and had poor user experience, and that a small group of disruptive participants should not have led to its elimination. The speaker noted that council members themselves use Zoom for other meetings. - A fifth resident invited the community to the grand reopening of the Gulfport Arts Center on October 7, 6:00-9:00 PM. Discussion Items - Resolution No. 2022-66: Annual calendar of city-sponsored special events for FY 2022-2023, with waiver of certain code provisions. Passed unanimously. - Resolution No. 2022-67: Special event application from Unity of Gulfport, Inc. for a two-day event. (City Manager noted these two-day events were brought individually per council preference.) Passed unanimously. - Resolution No. 2022-68: Special event application from Gulfport Merchants Chamber of Commerce for a fine arts festival in Veterans Park. Passed unanimously. - Resolution No. 2022-69: Special event application from VETSports for the 11th annual Heroes Weekend, including a volleyball tournament and police/fire department match. The applicant, Dane Litgem, presented. Passed unanimously. - Resolution No. 2022-70: Authorizing purchase of a Toro Workman utility vehicle from Wesco Turf, Inc., budgeted replacement for use at baseball fields and beach. Passed unanimously. - Resolution No. 2022-71: Authorizing purchase of two work trucks from Alan Jay Chevrolet and sale of trucks No. 1305 and No. 1674 at auction. Passed unanimously. - Resolution No. 2022-72: Authorizing agreements for building services assistance with Pinellas County and SAFEbuilt/M.T. Causley to handle increased inspection and plan review workload. Passed unanimously. Council Comments/Informational Reports - Councilmember Fridovich questioned the use of the casino for a town hall meeting (scheduled October 8) due to cost, suggesting smaller venues like the community center. A brief exchange occurred; council agreed to specify venues in future requests. He also invited the public to a free event at the casino on Saturday, October 8 (1-6 PM) featuring education, arts, and culture. - Councilmember Thanos thanked staff for hurricane response, asked about collecting flood zone data from Hurricane Ian to assess risks for Gulfport, reported attending a Suncoast League of Cities event that discussed affordable housing options under HB 1339, and proposed a future discussion on requiring permeable pavers for driveways/patios instead of concrete. Council scheduled this discussion for November. - Vice Mayor Brown praised city cleanup after the storm, promoted the Lions Club "Gulfport Gets Laid" dance on October 15, and supported the idea of updating litter signs. - Councilmember Ray thanked staff and CERT volunteers, requested permission to use the St. Tangerine stage on October 16 for a pet fundraiser benefiting Fort Myers animals affected by Hurricane Ian, and proposed a flag-raising event for Black History Month on February 1, 2023 (similar to the Pride flag raising). Council expressed support. - Mayor Henderson noted the city's hurricane relief collection for Fort Myers (water, Gatorade, baby wipes, diapers, formula, bug spray, sunblock, paper goods, plastic utensils, manual can openers, trash bags, non-perishable food, cleaning supplies, plastic sheeting/tarps, toiletries, pet food, hand sanitizer, disinfectant wipes, solar chargers, camp stoves – no clothing or used items). He reminded the public to be respectful to volunteers and staff during emergencies and urged continued preparedness. Key Outcomes - All resolutions (2022-61 through 2022-72) were passed unanimously. - Council agreed to schedule a discussion on permeable pavers for city use in November, but not as a private-property requirement. - Council expressed support for replacing litter signs with new designs as needed. - Council supported a future Black History Month flag-raising event. - Meeting adjourned after council comments.

The Gulfport City Council held its regular meeting on September 20, 2022, at 6:00 PM at Gulfport City Hall. The council unanimously adopted the FY 2022-2023 millage rate and budget, passed several utility rate restructuring ordinances, and approved resolutions related to sewer infrastructure. Public comment focused on a police incident involving a minor and concerns about rental housing affordability. Public Comments & Testimony - Bryce Graham (Second Vice President, National Network, Central Florida chapter) expressed strong opposition to the use of excessive force by a Gulfport police officer against 15-year-old Maniah Sharif, calling for an independent investigation and criticizing the police chief’s statements on Facebook. - Maniah’s grandfather described the emotional impact on his granddaughter, stating she was not protected and is now afraid to return to school. - Mr. Lee complained about decades of racial discrimination and lack of action by the council, alleging that the city weaponizes police against residents. - Elizabeth Hendricks (Townshores resident, former Gecko Queen) advocated for rent control and limiting short-term rentals, reporting that a 38% increase in her own rent and that the city has lost 70% of its long-term rentals. - A speaker from the Activism News Network noted the contrast between a prior officer suspended for shoplifting and the current sergeant remaining on duty after the incident with Maniah. - Another resident urged the council to stop “dancing around the Mulberry bush” and make decisions on racial justice, rent fairness, and short-term rentals. Discussion Items - Ordinance 2022-07 (Millage Rate): Adopted a levy of 4.039 operating mills for FY 2022-2023, a 14.38% increase over the rolled-back rate of 3.5312 mills. Passed unanimously. - Ordinance 2022-08 (Operating Budget): Adopted the FY 2022-2023 budget. Passed unanimously. - Ordinance 2022-03 (Garbage Service Charges): Updated sanitation fees in response to County tipping fee changes. Passed unanimously. - Ordinance 2022-04 (Stormwater Utility Fee): Established a multi-year rate schedule: no increase in FY 2023, a $2/month increase in FY 2024, and a $1/month increase in FY 2025. Passed unanimously. - Ordinance 2022-05 (Water Service): Moved from a 2,000-gallon minimum to a base charge plus volumetric billing; no rate increase in FY 2023, followed by 8% increases in FY 2024 and FY 2025. Also authorized the city manager to waive certain administrative fees. Passed unanimously. - Ordinance 2022-06 (Sewer Service Charges): Similar volumetric structure with no increase in FY 2023 and 8% increases in FY 2024 and FY 2025. Passed unanimously. - Resolution 2022-59: Authorized the city manager to enter into agreements with Miller Pipeline, LLC and Cardno, Inc. for Priority Two sanitary sewer repairs, funded by $600,000 in ARPA funds. This completes the settlement from the 2016 hurricane-related litigation. Passed unanimously. - Resolution 2022-60: Approved an amendment to the State Revolving Fund loan for the Lift Station No. 2 Force Main Extension and Pumping Improvements Project, increasing the loan amount (still at 0%–1% interest). The project is 95% complete and will finalize the consent order with FDEP. Passed unanimously. - Discussion of Zoom Virtual Meetings: Council decided to discontinue Zoom for regular council meetings, returning to in-person public comment only, but will consider hybrid options for special workshops and events (e.g., the October 20 workshop). City staff will explore cost-effective alternatives for library events like Read Out that benefit from virtual participation. Key Outcomes - All seven ordinances and two resolutions passed by unanimous 5-0 votes. - The city will install no overnight parking signs at Trolley Market Square Park and Tangerine Greenway, consistent with other city parks (closed midnight to 4 AM). - The City Manager will schedule a presentation from Forward Pinellas on the Affordable Housing Compact. - A town hall meeting is scheduled for October 12 and a workshop for October 20 to address the rental crisis and short-term rentals. - Council thanked staff, particularly Tom and Cheryl, for restructuring utility rates and completing the budget. - The city will not opt out of the Pinellas County Tenants’ Bill of Rights; landlords are required to provide the notice to tenants. - The police incident involving Maniah Sharif remains under investigation; council noted it will be made public after completion.

The Gulfport City Council held its regular meeting on Tuesday, September 6, 2022, at 6:00 PM at City Hall. The meeting featured first readings of the fiscal year 2022-2023 millage rate and budget ordinances, public comments on short-term rentals and other matters, approval of several resolutions, and council reports. Consent Calendar - Minutes: The council unanimously approved the meeting minutes of July 19, 2022, and August 2, 2022. Public Comments & Testimony - Bob McKenna (Clinton Street resident) expressed frustration with code enforcement procedures regarding a short-term rental duplex next door. He reported difficulty obtaining evidence (ads) and requested clearer instructions for residents. He also raised concerns about a car wash, detail business, and car dealership operating at the property. Council assured follow-up. - Jerry Reid (President of SO 49, 11th Avenue South) celebrated the Trolley Market Square opening in February 2019 and announced the area will now be called the Trolley Market District. - Walter Barker (Trade Winds Drive) commended the council for implementing voluntary activity reports in the city newsletter, encouraging all councilmembers to participate. - Regina Buscemi (Gulfport resident) thanked the council for not raising water and trash bills, reminded attendees of the 9/11 remembrance event at the casino (8:30 AM Sunday), and suggested reinstating a new resident orientation program. - Mr. Mather (phone caller) suggested adding a Gulfport history page to the city website in coordination with the Historical Society. Discussion Items - Ordinance 2022-07 (Millage Rate): First reading of a 4.039 operating mill levy, a 14.38% increase over the rollback rate of 3.5312 mills. Councilmember Thanos clarified that homestead exemptions are applied before the levy. Unanimously passed. - Ordinance 2022-08 (Operating Budget): First reading of the FY 2022-2023 budget. City Manager Riley thanked staff and noted it is a balanced budget. Unanimously passed. Second reading and public hearing scheduled for September 20, 2022. - Resolution 2022-54 (Insurance Renewal): Authorized renewal of general insurance coverages with Public Risk Management of Florida. Premiums increased 14%, accounted for in the budget. Unanimous. - Resolution 2022-55 (EMS Agreement): Authorized an agreement with Pinellas County for Advanced Life Support First Responder Services. Includes a “nearest responder” dispatch provision. Funding covers paramedic positions and related costs. Unanimous. - Resolution 2022-56 (Fire Engine Purchase): Authorized using Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds to purchase a 2024 E-One Typhoon Pumper (approx. 18-month lead time) and surplus the 2004 E-One Pumper. Council discussed potential sale price. Unanimous. - Resolution 2022-57 (Emergency Fire Truck Repairs): Authorized payment to Rush Truck Center for emergency repairs to fire truck E-17 and a budget amendment. Unanimous. - Resolution 2022-58 (49th Street Safety Grant): Authorized an MOU with Forward Pinellas to apply for a $150,000 Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) safety grant. City’s share is $15,000 (half of 20% match). Planning will include community meetings and focus on safety improvements from 22nd Avenue to 29th Avenue. Unanimous. - City Manager’s Report: - Submitted a Resilient Florida grant application for $80,000 for a vulnerability assessment. - Partnering with Treasure Island on a grant for a homeless outreach worker. - Reported progress on the living shoreline project (permitting, construction mid-2023). - Requested and received council approval for Stetson University College of Law to reserve three volleyball courts for 10 Sunday nights (rental). - Discussed the Bogasea Yacht Club (BYC) proposal; council requested BYC provide supporting documentation by the September 20 meeting for further discussion. - Councilmember Thanos: Proposed requesting an Attorney General’s opinion on whether the city can expand the zoning district allowing short-term rentals. Council did not formally vote but appeared supportive of obtaining the opinion before further discussion. Also proposed changing the definition of “green space” to exclude permeable pavers (not set in concrete) to reduce stormwater runoff. Vice Mayor Brown asked for more data before changing the definition. Key Outcomes - Ordinances: Both the millage rate (2022-07) and budget (2022-08) passed unanimously on first reading; second readings on September 20. - Resolutions 2022-54 through 2022-58: All passed unanimously. - Volleyball Rental: Council approved Stetson University’s request for 10 Sunday nights. - Bogasea Yacht Club: Council directed the City Manager to request supplementary documentation from BYC by September 20, 2022. - Short-Term Rentals: Follow-up on resident complaint directed to code enforcement; instructions for residents will be clarified. - Future Meetings: Town halls scheduled – Councilmember Ray (October 12), Councilmember Thanos (planning meeting September 28, town hall November 14). Workshop on short-term rentals on October 20.