Public Meetings - Gulfport, Mississippi

The Gulfport City Council met on Tuesday, August 2, 2022, at 6:00 PM at Gulfport City Hall. The meeting featured presentations from Pinellas County Commissioner Charlie Justice and Stantec Vice President Andrew Burnham on water and sewer rate structures, followed by public comments and the adoption of several resolutions. Key outcomes included a zero percent rate increase for water and sewer for fiscal year 2022-2023 and a revised rate structure benefiting low-volume users. Presentation: Pinellas County Commissioner Charlie Justice - Commissioner Justice provided an overview of the county budget, highlighting a proposed $3.2 billion budget with a millage rate reduction from 5.13 to 4.73, the first two-year reduction in 35 years. He noted a 2.7% unemployment rate and 500,000 jobs in Pinellas County, the highest in history. - He discussed the county's tenants' bill of rights, passed that morning, which provides protections against discrimination for housing voucher users. He also mentioned the county's allocation of Penny for Pinellas funds, including $4.15% of the total over 10 years for affordable housing, and the Prime communication system for first responders. - Commissioner Justice addressed the Tampa Bay Rays stadium potential, stating no location has been finalized, but if in Pinellas County, it would likely be on the Tropicana site with a smaller stadium footprint. He also confirmed that short-term rental properties (e.g., Airbnb) are required to pay bed tax. - In response to council questions, he clarified that the county's affordable housing programs are facing challenges as some developers are opting out due to market-rate profitability. Presentation: Andrew Burnham (Stantec) - Water and Sewer Rate Structure Analysis - Burnham presented an update on the city's utility financial plan, incorporating use of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds for capital projects and updated St. Petersburg wholesale rate forecasts. For fiscal year 2022-2023, no rate increase is needed, a revision from the previously projected 7% increase. - For fiscal years 2024-2027, higher increases (around 8% per year) are projected due to St. Petersburg's wholesale rate increases, with normalization to 3.5% annually after 2027. - He recommended a rate structure change: replacing the current minimum charge of $19.74 (includes up to 2,000 gallons) with a base rate of $17.74, and charging $1 per 1,000 gallons for usage up to 2,000 gallons. This results in a reduction of up to $4 per month for low-volume users (0-2,000 gallons) with no change for typical 2,000-gallon users. The change also applies to sewer rates. - Burnham also recommended prorating charges for mid-month occupancy changes, eliminating the discount on standby service for water and sewer, and combining turn-on/ turn-off fees. He suggested considering a multi-year rate plan with indexing to reduce annual review frequency. - In discussion, council members expressed concerns about the impact on commercial users and the desire for deeper discounts for low-volume users. Mayor Henderson noted the proposed structure is conservative and avoids rate fatigue. The city manager indicated a three-year plan would be brought forward: 0% increase in FY23, then 8% and 8% in the following two years. Public Comments - Multiple residents spoke on the water rate structure. One speaker expressed agreement with council member Thanos's view that higher-volume users should pay more, arguing the proposed savings are too small ($2-$4) for low-income households. Another speaker criticized the mayor for interrupting council member Thanos. - A local realtor, Ms. Love, urged the council to consider zoning changes (ADUs, density) to address affordable housing, noting that the city controls zoning and density. She also announced a beach cleanup on Saturday, August 6, at 8:00 AM. - Representatives from the Gulfport Kawanis Club thanked the council for supporting Juneteenth celebrations and presented a donation for the after-school program at the Gulfport Rec Center. - A speaker, Mr. Rodriguez, accused the city manager, police chief, and Boca Ciega Yacht Club of financial improprieties, alleging theft of millions over a lease. He gave a 72-day notice of intent to sue the city. The mayor responded by stating the city is prepared to defend against such allegations if a lawsuit is filed. - Another resident commented on the water structure, supporting the concept of the new rate structure and requesting consideration of a low-income senior discount on sanitation fees. - A resident spoke on affordable housing, suggesting creative solutions such as limiting corporate ownership and allowing tiny homes with rent caps. Consent Calendar - Minutes: Approval of the Council Meeting Minutes of June 7, 2022. Approved unanimously. Resolutions (Adopted Unanimously) - Resolution 2022-51: Authorized the city manager to renew employee health insurance coverage with Public Risk Management of Florida Health Trust/Florida Blue for FY2022-2023. Staff noted a 1% rate increase, attributed to work by Human Resources Director Shannon Farrell. - Resolution 2022-52: Authorized renewal of employee life and accidental death and dismemberment insurance with Standard Insurance Company for FY2022-2023. - Resolution 2022-53: Authorized renewal of employee long-term disability insurance with Standard Insurance Company for FY2022-2023. Council Comments/Informational Reports - Vice Mayor Brown reminded of school starting next week and requested banners for 64th Street. City Manager O'Reilly confirmed a banner order is planned for October. - Councilmember Thanos announced she will hold a town hall on housing (date TBD) and has been attending the police academy. She expressed displeasure over the $30,000 cost for the gecko statue’s pad, which was not approved by council. She also suggested a study of sanitation services to explore cost savings and rate restructuring. - Mayor Henderson addressed public comments, noting that while the council respects free speech, repeated unsubstantiated allegations may constitute defamation. He indicated the city will take action on actionable statements. Key Outcomes - Water & Sewer Rates: No increase for FY2022-2023; a revised rate structure will be presented for first reading in two weeks, followed by three-year plan with 0% increase in FY23, then 8% in FY24 and FY25. - Insurance Resolutions: All three resolutions (2022-51, 2022-52, 2022-53) were approved unanimously. - Directives: City manager to bring ordinance for rate structure change and three-year rate plan; council to consider a sanitation study based on Thanos's suggestion.

The Gulfport City Council met on Tuesday, July 19, 2022, at 6:00 PM at Gulfport City Hall. The meeting included public comments, a city manager report, and unanimous approval of four resolutions. Council members also discussed housing, short-term rentals, and community events. Public Comments & Testimony - Natanya Diamond (dog park user) requested more input opportunities for dog park improvements, citing insufficient seating, safety gaps in benches, and ideas like a sand pit for digging. She noted the big dog park has about 100 members on Facebook. - Karen Love (23rd Avenue South) praised fire/rescue response (arrived in 4 minutes) but criticized the non-emergency dispatch number for asking for an address at the beach, which she found unsatisfying. She also raised concerns about fish cleaning residue on concrete benches and called for enforceable smoking ordinances, noting she picks up 1,000 cigarette butts per cleanup. - Ray Rodriguez (phone-in) gave a legal 90-day notice of intent to sue the city, Boca Sega Yacht Club, and the Gulfport Police Department. City Manager Report - City Manager O'Reilly presented the proposed budget for FY 2022/2023, noting a 6.6% increase in the general fund, with 70% of costs being personnel. All general employees would receive 6% raises. Operational expenses saw minimal growth. The budget was prepared amid a 12% inflation environment (1.3% nationwide on top of 11.3% local). - Regarding the dog park, the city manager confirmed that a new shelter (to match the small dog park's longer shelter) and a corral for chairs are in the works. A sand pit in the digging area is being considered as an alternative to turf. Resolutions (All Passed Unanimously) - Resolution 2022-47: Set the proposed millage rate at 4.039 mills for the 11th consecutive year, and established the dates for the FY 2022/2023 millage rate and budget public hearings. - Resolution 2022-48: Authorized the city manager to enter into a service and user agreement with the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office for law enforcement support services (e.g., communications) for FY 2022/2023. Police Chief Vincent was present to answer questions. - Resolution 2022-49: Authorized an agreement with Earth Networks, Inc. to place a weather camera on the Gulfport Casino. The camera will be used by CBS affiliate Channel 10 at no cost to the city. - Resolution 2022-50: Authorized the city manager to enter into an agreement with artist Ray Domingo (The Domingo Studio) for installation of a public art piece at the Gulfport Casino. During discussion, it was revealed that the city spent approximately $20,000 on a cement base and an additional $32,000 total for the foundation (including pilings and engineering), funded from the city's WRD operating budget. The city's contribution to the art itself is $16,000. Council had not previously voted on the foundation costs, but the city manager stated it was within his discretion. The resolution passed unanimously after a brief delay to answer public questions. Council Comments & Informational Reports - Councilmember Thanos: Announced she started the police academy. Reported from the Suncoast League of Cities retreat that net metering, homelessness, housing affordability, and insurance costs were identified as key issues. She requested a town hall meeting on housing and short-term rentals, which the council agreed to schedule. - Vice Mayor Brown: Asked that the city update its website to reflect the new suicide hotline number (988). Proposed awarding the Spirit of Gulfport award to Harold Russell, owner of Backfin Blue, for his 25 years of community contributions. Council agreed to entertain the proposal. - Councilmember Ray: Reported on her town hall meeting (October 12 date set). Topics included the dog park paint, short-term rentals (with some residents for and against), a request for a stop sign at Fremont and 13th (under traffic study), and a request for a recycling demonstration at the next meeting. She noted that the city cannot legally limit rental prices. - Councilmember Ferdovich: Announced an international conference on education, arts, and culture planned for October 8 at the casino, featuring artist Ray Domingo and other speakers, including former Florida CFO Alex Sink. - Mayor Henderson: Discussed cease-and-desist letters regarding Ray Rodriguez's threats to sue and excessive emails from another individual. He also reported that Winway Homes had been dishonest in prior meetings with citizens, and he cautioned residents about the company. Key Outcomes - All four resolutions (2022-47, 2022-48, 2022-49, 2022-50) passed unanimously. - A town hall on housing and short-term rentals will be scheduled, led by Councilmember Thanos. - The Spirit of Gulfport award for Harold Russell will be considered at a future meeting. - A recycling demonstration is planned for the October 12 meeting. - The city manager will look into whitelisting Suncoast League of Cities emails to resolve delivery issues. - Council directed staff to pursue a cease-and-desist letter regarding the individual who filed a notice of intent to sue.

The Gulfport City Council held its regular meeting on Thursday, July 7, 2022, at 6:00 PM at City Hall. The meeting featured a presentation on the state of Tampa Bay by the Tampa Bay Estuary Program, public comments on various topics, approval of consent items and resolutions, and discussion of the proposed FY2022-2023 operating budget and the Community Rating System (CRS) for flood insurance. Council members also addressed workplace safety for employees and short-term rental regulation. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: Council approved the City Council meeting minutes of May 3, 2022, and May 17, 2022, as presented. - Resolution No. 2022-43: Approved the appointment of Christine Crosby to the Senior Citizens' Advisory Committee on Aging. Public Comments & Testimony - Susan Gore (Board President, LGBTQ Resource Center of the Gulfport Library) announced the 2022-2023 Branch Out Scholarship of $2,500 to Natalie Marcelin, an MSW student at USF, noting the increase from $1,000. She expressed appreciation for the council's commitment to LGBTQ inclusion. - JW Maddigan (2520 York Street, representing neighbors) proposed reducing the water, sewer, and recycling bill for seniors by changing garbage/recycling collection from twice to once per week on Thursdays, arguing that those on fixed incomes struggle with the current cost. - Kim Glenn (5601 Shore Boulevard South) requested a beautification upgrade at the corner of 56th and Shore Boulevard around a light post, suggesting mosaic art or planting, but acknowledged flooding issues. - Steve Utavich (President, Iraq and Afghanistan War Memorial Foundation) presented a proposal to place a memorial honoring Floridians who served and died in Iraq and Afghanistan in Veterans Park. The memorial would list 355 names and require a 50x50-foot space, with the foundation raising funds and the city providing maintenance and dedication support. Discussion Items - Presentation: Tampa Bay Estuary Program – Ed Sherwood, Executive Director, presented the state of Tampa Bay. He noted that seagrass coverage peaked in 2016 but has lost about 4,000+ acres in Old Tampa Bay due to nutrient pollution. Non-point sources (stormwater) now contribute 64% of nutrients. He highlighted the City of Gulfport's past investments, including the sewer lateral incentive program ($372,000 over three years), living shoreline grants, and the Tangerine Avenue project. He encouraged continued efforts to reduce impervious surfaces and invest in Florida-friendly landscaping. Sherwood also mentioned upcoming federal funds (about $1 million/year for five years) for private lateral improvements, pending EPA guidance. - City Manager Report – The City Manager reported that the proposed rate structure (reducing the minimum tier to 1,000 gallons) will be presented on August 2. He noted property values increased 15.2% (second highest in Pinellas County) and 24% over two years. He also discussed employee safety concerns, citing increased harassment, threats, and vitriolic emails, and requested council support for measures to protect staff, including potential legal action. - Budget Discussion 3 – The City Manager presented the FY2022-2023 proposed operating budget overview and fund analysis. Key points: a conservative approach to rebuild reserves to 25% (currently at 16%); a 6% COLA for all employees including council; inflation at 11.3% in Tampa Bay; fuel costs up 58%; and ongoing capital projects (sewer, drainage, resurfacing). Councilmembers expressed support for maintaining the same millage rate for the 11th year and keeping the budget service-focused. - Community Rating System (CRS) Discussion – Staff analyzed options to move from CRS Class 6 to Class 5, which would require 500 more points. Proposed activities include higher freeboard, cumulative substantial improvement tracking, and hiring a floodplain manager (est. $100,000/year). Councilmember Thanos suggested evaluating lower-cost options like flood data maintenance. Vice Mayor Brown raised concerns about increased costs for homeowners and potential impacts on neighborhood character. Council consensus was not to pursue changes at this time. - Short-Term Rentals – The City Manager provided updated information and a legal opinion from the City Attorney cautioning against zoning changes that could jeopardize existing restrictions. Councilmember Thanos proposed hiring a contract code enforcement officer (complaint-driven) and using software like Granicus to monitor listings. Discussion deferred to a future meeting, likely in October after budget adoption. - Smoking Ban – The City Manager noted that a draft ordinance has been prepared following the new state law allowing municipalities to ban smoking on beaches and parks (with exceptions for unfiltered cigars). Councilmembers expressed skepticism about enforceability; no action taken. - Councilmember Comments – Councilmember Thanos requested a monthly report to be included in the city's weekly email newsletter. Councilmember Ray announced a town hall meeting on July 13 at the library. Mayor Henderson asked staff to explore feasibility of placing the Iraq/Afghanistan war memorial in Veterans Park and adding shade structures to dog parks. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved unanimously by roll call (5-0). - Resolution No. 2022-44 (ARPA funds for inflation relief): Approved unanimously. - Resolution No. 2022-45 (Beach playground replacement with Project Innovations, Inc., using ARPA funds): Approved unanimously. - Resolution No. 2022-46 (Oktoberfest Market special event on October 22, 2022): Approved unanimously. - Budget Direction: Council endorsed a conservative budget approach, maintaining reserves rebuild to 25% and the same millage rate. - Employee Safety: Council expressed support for exploring legal and policy measures to protect staff from harassment and threats; City Attorney will research options including declaring certain areas non-public forums. - Short-Term Rentals: Deferred to a discussion at a future council meeting (likely October 2022). - War Memorial: Staff authorized to evaluate the proposal from the Iraq and Afghanistan War Memorial Foundation for placement in Veterans Park. - Dog Park Amenities: Staff authorized to proceed with adding shade structures at the big dog park, cost under $20,000. - Town Hall Meeting: Councilmember Ray's town hall scheduled for July 13, 2022, at the library (hybrid format). - Future Meetings: County Commissioner Justice to attend August 2 meeting; State Representative Cheney to attend August 16 meeting.

The Gulfport City Council met on Tuesday, June 7, 2022, at 6:00 PM at City Hall. Vice Mayor Brown presided in the absence of the Mayor. Councilmember Fridovich and Mayor Henderson were excused. The meeting included public comments, resolutions, and a discussion on outdoor entertainment permits. Public Comments & Testimony - Barbara Banno, representing the Gulfport Merchants Chamber, announced the organization will hire a full-time Director of Operations to manage day-to-day activities, the welcome center, budget, and events. She thanked the council for ongoing support. - A resident (name not given) expressed frustration with the term "complaint-driven" enforcement, asking about code enforcement for dogs on beach, smoking, fires, and short-term rentals. She questioned the city's COVID protocol for code enforcement and urged better public education and enforcement. - Marissa Stewart Dix, President of the Gulfport Kiwanis Club, invited the council to the Juneteenth celebration on June 18 from 10 AM to 4 PM at the Gulfport Recreation Center. She noted the event would include speakers, raffles, and a DJ, and requested the mayor to deliver a welcome. - Debbie Amos, owner of Tiki Bar and Grill, spoke about outdoor music issues. She stated her business has received very few complaints because speakers face the Gulf, and argued that realistic decibel limits are needed, given other noise sources in the area. - Margaret (last name not given) asked Councilmember Ray for a summary of a recent town hall, mentioned sending a suggestion to the city manager about accounts receivable, and commented that the proposed noise ordinance changes seem similar to the existing permit process. - Mr. Simek advocated for creating an advisory committee focused on diversity in ethnicity and age groups, noting that the median age in Gulfport (56-57) means half the population is under-represented on boards and council. He argued that cognitive diversity leads to better decision-making. City Manager Report - City Manager O'Reilly reported that Governor DeSantis signed the state budget ($109.9 billion) but vetoed $3.1 billion in projects, including the Town Shores waterline project. He noted the veto also affected Moffitt Cancer Center and USF. He said the city can resubmit next year. - On a positive note, Congressman Chris' office included Gulfport's project in his 15 appropriations requests for $1.5 million, now pending before House committees. - Preliminary property values increased by 14%, the second highest in Pinellas County (only Indian Rocks Beach was higher at 15%, attributed to short-term rentals). Consent Calendar - Item 5a - Minutes of April 5 and April 19, 2022: Councilmember Thanos requested a change to the April 5 minutes regarding board appointments, stating the language did not accurately reflect her proposal to announce vacancies and receive applications on a set date. After discussion, a motion to approve the minutes as is passed, with Councilmember Thanos dissenting. She later clarified she intended to vote yes on consent items 5b and 5c. - Item 5b - Resolution 2022-38: Authorizing a contract with Caladesi Construction Company for Scout Hall Restoration and Waterproofing Project. Approved unanimously. - Item 5c - Resolution 2022-39: Authorizing the City Manager to amend and restate the Mission Square Governmental Money Purchase Plan & Trust. Approved unanimously. Resolutions - Resolution 2022-40 (Item 7a): Authorizing the use of ARPA funds for a watershed management plan with Advanced Engineering and Design, Inc. Justin Keller of Advanced Engineering presented a three-phase plan: investigation, assessment, and recommendation. The plan will address flooding vulnerabilities, water quality, and resiliency, incorporating sea level rise projections. Councilmember Ray asked about integrating existing studies and ongoing infrastructure work. The resolution passed unanimously. - Resolution 2022-41 (Item 7b): Approving a special event application from Unity of Gulfport, Inc. for a summer solstice celebration at the casino pad. A representative requested a fire pit for a ceremonial burn, but the fire chief had concerns. Council approved the resolution with the understanding that the city would work with the fire chief to possibly allow the fire pit. Passed unanimously. - Resolution 2022-42 (Item 7c): Authorizing the use of ARPA funds for water and sewer infrastructure related to priority two pipe repair. The City Manager noted that a detailed contract will be brought in July. Passed unanimously. Discussion Items - Code of Ordinances - Section 22-6.12 (Item 8a): Outdoor entertainment and sales permits. The City Manager presented a flowchart clarifying the review process for new permit applications. Councilmember Ray explained that the goal is to be more proactive, working with businesses and nearby residents before granting permits, rather than approving them without review. The council agreed to adopt this more mindful approach going forward. No vote was taken. Council Comments & Informational Reports - Councilmember Ray reported on several items: inviting Tampa Bay Estuary Program, Linda Cheney, and Charlie Justice for future presentations; a meeting on homelessness at Allendale Church and the city's hiring of a social worker; a new dog fountain at Wood Ibis Park; recognition of resident Nadine Smith as one of Time magazine's 100 most influential people of 2022; exploring solar panels for Scout Hall; and recommending postponing marina restroom construction until the marina project is complete. - Councilmember Thanos announced a town hall meeting on July 13, 2022; gave updates on the Pride Festival (no incidents); encouraged attendance at the Juneteenth event; noted Flag Day on June 14 with retired flag burning at Veterans Park; and mentioned ongoing efforts to secure funding for the senior center with Commissioner Flowers and Justice. Key Outcomes - All three resolutions (2022-40, 2022-41, 2022-42) passed unanimously. - Consent items 5b and 5c approved; minutes (5a) approved despite Councilmember Thanos' objection. - The council agreed to use a more detailed review process for future outdoor entertainment permits. - Councilmember Ray will arrange for presentations from Tampa Bay Estuary, Linda Cheney, Charlie Justice, and homelessness program staff. - The city will continue seeking state funding for the waterline project and monitor the $1.5 million federal appropriation request.

The City Council of Gulfport, Florida, met on Tuesday, May 17, 2022, at 6:00 PM at City Hall. Vice Mayor Christine Brown gave the invocation, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. Councilmember Ray was excused. The meeting featured presentations from Duke Energy on an undergrounding project and a summary of a parking town hall, public comments, approval of two resolutions, and discussions on American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) fund allocation and the Fiscal Year 2022–2023 Capital Improvement Program (CIP) budget. Presentations - Duke Energy Undergrounding: Theresa Crane (Sr. Account Executive) and Libby Hoctor (Sr. Public Engagement Manager) presented details on grid improvements for the 51st Street substation serving approximately 16,607 customers. The project includes upgrading eight feeders, equipping more than 50 miles of lines with self-healing technology, upgrading nearly 500 transformers and 240 fuses, replacing over 1,600 feet of underground cable, upgrading 500 poles, and placing almost 23 miles of overhead lines underground. Work is already underway on overhead upgrades; undergrounding is expected to begin around August 2022, with completion within about four months. Duke Energy is currently in the easement acquisition phase, with about 70% of needed easements obtained. They requested council support in communicating the program's benefits to residents. - Parking Town Hall Summary: Councilmember April Thanos reported on a public meeting held to discuss parking issues. She noted no consensus for paid parking; most attendees favored keeping free parking. Ideas generated included removing resident-only parking on east-west streets (which had few front-facing houses), issuing placards for vendors/staff to use resident-only parking during daytime, adding electric vehicle charging stations and handicap parking, creating designated motorcycle/golf cart parking areas, and exploring valet or off-site parking (e.g., renting the Bank of America lot, using marina or park lots). A boat shuttle from marina to casino pier was also suggested. Councilmember Thanos indicated that some council members do not see a significant parking problem. Consent Calendar - Resolution No. 2022-36: Authorized the City Manager to execute a Cooperative Purchasing Agreement with Southern Disaster Recovery, LLC, for debris collection and removal services. Passed unanimously. Resolutions - Resolution No. 2022-37: Authorized the City Manager to accept Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations (CRRSA) Act-Phase VI grant proceeds from the Early Learning Coalition to purchase a hip roof shade structure from Creative Shade Solutions, Inc., and authorized a budget amendment. Passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Karen Love (address not stated) praised the invocation and expressed support for consistent management of right-of-way parking and better placement of bicycle racks (citing bicycles parked on tennis courts due to poorly located racks). She also urged residents and the city to maintain sidewalks clear of overgrown vegetation and to improve crosswalk accessibility for mobility-impaired individuals. - Walter Barker (Trade Winds Drive) reiterated his previous request that council members provide monthly reports to be published in the Gulfport E-newsletter, citing the pay raise they voted for themselves and the need for transparency. He noted that a separate heading for council reports would help citizens track council activities. - Margaret Simic (via phone) raised concerns about Resolution 2019-04 (passed January 15, 2019) regarding compounded interest credits for certain properties with delinquent accounts. She reported that many of the 20 affected properties never received notification of the credit, and some who paid in full after the resolution date did not receive their credit. She urged the council to send letters to affected property owners and retroactively issue credits. - Mr. Simic (likely same caller) also commented on Duke Energy's ground transformers along Beach Drive, calling them unsightly and suggesting the city require Duke to provide landscaping to conceal them. He further proposed forming a "Generational Equity and Diversity Committee" to address underrepresentation on advisory committees (current members predominantly white and over 50, while the city's median age is about 55 and minority population is about 20–30%). He argued this would be more important than salary raises for encouraging engagement from underrepresented groups. Discussion Items - American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Funds: City Manager Jim O'Reilly presented a summary of ARPA fund allocation after multiple council discussions. The recommended plan allocates ARPA funds to specific projects, including a fire truck, resiliency/stormwater study, and water meters. After moving some projects to other funding sources, an estimated remaining balance of about $762,000 was discussed. The City Manager recommended setting aside approximately $600,000 for sewer infrastructure (priority one/two/three consent order work), with the remainder to cover potential cost overruns (noting 10.2% inflation in the Tampa Bay area). Councilmember Thanos supported keeping a reserve for emergencies or cost overruns. Council also discussed a potential 6–7% cost of living adjustment for city employees (to be considered during the operating budget). The council generally concurred with the direction but no formal vote was taken. - Fiscal Year 2022–23 Capital Improvement Program (CIP) Budget: The City Manager presented a conservative one-year CIP and a five-year plan. Key items included generator relocation (library), emergency facility generator grant match, police vehicles, auto extrication equipment, utility loan repayments (funded by Penny for Pinellas), library materials and tablets, waterfront redevelopment projects (casino substructure repair, AC replacement, theater curtain replacement, rec center canopy replacement), senior center trust fund transfer (pending congressional appropriation), sewer bypass loan payments, water line rehabilitation (including a potential state match for Town Shores water line replacement), utility vehicles, marina fencing/keyless entry, and fuel dispenser replacement. Councilman Ferdovich commended the finance department. Vice Mayor Brown expressed reservations about funding the senior center without the city demonstrating its own investment (to attract outside donors). Councilwoman Thanos suggested buying only one or two library tablets initially to test usage. The council took no formal vote but expressed general support for the proposed direction. Key Outcomes - Resolutions 2022-36 and 2022-37 were approved unanimously. - On ARPA funds, the council reached consensus to allocate about $600,000 to sewer infrastructure and keep the remaining $162,000 as a reserve; no formal vote was taken. - The City Council expressed openness to creating a council member report section on the city website and in the weekly e-newsletter, with the understanding that reports should avoid political opinions and be factual. The matter will be reviewed with the City Attorney. - Councilman Ferdovich suggested creating commemorative plaques for retirees and long‐serving volunteers; the idea was referred to the City Clerk for development. - The July 5, 2022 council meeting (the Tuesday after Independence Day) will be canceled by council consensus; agenda items will be moved to adjacent meetings. - The City Manager noted that the short-term rental ordinance discussion will be brought to council in June, and utility rate structure analysis is pending wholesale cost data from St. Petersburg.