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Record of Proceedings

Gulfport City Council Meeting - March 3, 2026: Presentations on ADUs, Stormwater, Senior Center, and Safe Streets

City Council — Tuesday, March 3, 2026
BodyGulfport, Florida
SessionCity Council
DateTuesday, March 3, 2026
StatusFILED
Video Record
0:00 / 2:38:36

Original source
Transcript — VerbatimClick a timed line to jump · ⧉ to share it

Speaker numbers apply only to this recording. Names come from transcript evidence. “Possibly” marks uncertain attribution.

Speaker 1

5:00

Good evening.

5:02

And welcome to the March 3rd, 2026 Council meeting.

5:08

After 33 years of s of saying sales meeting on Tuesdays, I still still feel like I stumble over that.

5:14

But council meeting.

5:16

So thank you all for being here.

5:18

If there's any chance whatsoever that your phone is not been silenced, please check it and silence it.

5:25

Okay.

5:26

And as always, I say there's gonna be a lot of things going on tonight, and there's gonna be a lot of questions, but if you feel the urge to to ask the person next to you, I'm gonna ask that you step outside so that we only have one conversation going on at a time, all right.

5:41

I appreciate that.

5:42

So with that, I would say let's call this meeting to order.

5:48

Oh, I did I did call it to order.

5:50

You know, I get confused between that and roll call.

5:53

I apologize.

5:56

Okay, let me start over.

5:57

I've called the meeting to order, and now we will start with the invocation, which will be given by Vice Mayor Danos for the last time, and then followed by the Pledge of Allegiance, so please stand.

Speaker 2

6:11

So usually I find a quote that seems appropriate for the time, but what's on my mind is the war.

6:20

And so whether you think it's justified or not justified, that doesn't, I mean it matters, but that's not what I'm talking about.

6:27

It's here, it's happening, and I'm just hoping that our national and international leaders can find a

Unassigned speaker

6:36

way to

Speaker 2

6:36

make it stop happening quickly, so we have minimal loss of life, because that totally worries me.

6:44

So I just wanted to say that as my invocation.

Unassigned speaker

6:47

So

Speaker 2

6:47

thank

Unassigned speaker

6:47

you.

Speaker 1

6:48

Thank

Unassigned speaker

6:49

you.

Speaker 3

7:11

Vice Mayor Thanos?

7:12

Here.

7:13

Councilmember Shaw.

7:14

Present.

7:15

Councilmember Jackson.

7:16

Here.

7:17

Councilmember Early.

7:18

Present.

7:18

Mayor Love.

7:19

Here.

7:19

City Attorney Salzman.

7:21

City Manager O'Reilly.

Speaker 4

7:22

Present.

Speaker 3

7:22

City Clerk Keriko is present.

Speaker 1

7:25

Thank you.

7:26

So tonight we're going to um start the meetings.

7:30

We have several presentations.

7:32

And we're gonna start off first with a uh recognizing our officer of the year.

7:37

And I believe that our city clerk is gonna read the proclamation, and then I believe our chief is going to acknowledge our officer of the year.

Speaker 3

7:48

Okay, and this is a proclamation honoring Officer Selena Ramos, 2025 officer of the year.

7:54

Whereas the safety, well-being, and quality of life of our residents depend greatly upon the dedication, professionalism, and integrity of the men and women who serve our law enforcement community.

8:04

And whereas Officer Selena Ramos began her employment with the City of Gulfport Police Department in 2018 and has consistently demonstrated exemplary commitment to the mission and the values of her department through outstanding service, leadership, and accountability.

8:19

And whereas Officer Ramos has distinguished herself as one of the agency's strongest field training officers, maintaining training documentation that is widely regarded as unparalleled in its accuracy, thoroughness, and professionalism.

8:31

And by not only meeting but evaluating, uh excuse me, elevating the standards of the field training program.

8:38

And whereas she has shown a genuine investment in the development and mentorship of new officers, taking personal ownership of their success and directly contributing to the overall strength and future of the department.

8:49

And whereas Officer Ramos has demonstrated notable growth and competence while serving as an acting sergeant on the Charlie shift, effectively balancing supervisory responsibilities alongside her primary duties with adaptability, sound judgment, and leadership potential.

9:04

And whereas she has consistently volunteered to cover shifts, often on short notice and beyond normal expectations, while maintaining exceptional performance, a positive attitude, and an engaging presence that strengthens both her squad and the department as a whole.

9:18

Whereas in recognition of her dedication, professionalism, leadership, and work ethic, the command staff has selected Officer Selena Remos as the 2025 Officer of the Year.

9:29

Now, therefore, be it proclaimed that the City Council of the City of Gulfport does hereby recognize and commend Officer Selena Ramos for her outstanding service and dedication to the community and proudly congratulates her upon being named 2025 Officer of the Year.

9:45

Be it further.

9:53

One more sentence to read.

Unassigned speaker

10:00

Be it further proclaimed that the City Council encourages all residents to join in expressing sincere appreciation and congratulations.

Speaker 1

10:17

Okay, Mary, you need to hand this to her, okay?

Speaker 5

10:21

Okay.

Discussion Breakdown — Share of Meeting
Stormwater Management████████████████████20%
Procedural██████████10%
Affordable Housing█████████9%
Transportation Safety█████████9%
Senior Center Funding█████████9%
Community Events█████████9%
Community Engagement█████5%
Capital Improvements████4%
Legislative Update███3%
Summary of Proceedings

Gulfport City Council Meeting - March 3, 2026

Presentations

Officer of the Year Recognition

The meeting began with a proclamation honoring Officer Selena Ramos as the 2025 Officer of the Year. Chief Mary Farrand presented the award, recognizing Ramos's exemplary service since 2018, her role as a field training officer, and her selection by command staff.

Additional Dwelling Unit (ADU) Update

Linda Fisher of Forward Pinellas presented findings from Task Two of the ADU study. Key points:

  • Projected ADU growth in Gulfport: 49 to 69 ADUs over 10 years in the policy direction areas (R1 and R1A districts outside the coastal high hazard area). This is based on St. Petersburg's experience, where ADU growth averaged 3%–4.2% of eligible parcels over 10 years.
  • Impacts on services and neighborhoods are expected to be minor due to the small numbers. Traffic from a few ADUs per street is negligible (5–7 trips/day per unit vs. 500–1,000 trips/day capacity).
  • Short-term rental concerns can be mitigated by owner-occupancy requirements, but pending state legislation (Senate Bill 48) may preempt that option.
  • The next task is drafting regulations with the Planning and Zoning Board.

Stormwater Update

Justin Keller of Advanced Engineering Design presented final recommendations based on council feedback from November 2025. Highlights:

  • Adaptation Plan (fully grant-funded, $250,000) to build on the vulnerability assessment.
  • BMP 3: 60th Street and 20th Avenue improvements ($2.5 million estimated).
  • Marina Tidal Flooding Reduction Project ($1.5 million, state appropriation requested).
  • Police/Fire Rapid Response Roadway Improvements ($3.75 million, state appropriation requested).
  • BMP 6: Climber Park pond option (alternative to piped option) and BMP 7: Wood Ibis bioswale with pump station ($2.2 million) to reduce flood duration.
  • BMP 8: Tomlinson Park – removing one ball field for expanded pond ($5.3 million). Councilmember Early expressed concern about losing a ball field and requested alternatives.
  • Council discussed the feasibility of floodable parks vs. permanent ponds, noting groundwater constraints.

Senior Center Status Update

Amy Bradlow of PBK Architects presented a three-phase renovation/expansion plan:

  • Phase One: 4,200 sq. ft. addition (two multipurpose rooms, lobby expansion, restrooms) – construction cost ~$3 million, total with soft costs ~$4 million.
  • Phase Two: Three options: (1) second floor over existing building (most expensive, ~31% more than horizontal), (2) second floor over Phase One only (17% more), (3) all horizontal expansion (least expensive, ~$4.68 million). Horizontal option loses parking but avoids stair/elevator costs.
  • Phase Three: Renovation of existing building (~$2.7 million construction).
  • The city intends to request a $3 million congressional appropriation from Representative Luna. Council consensus was to sign the letter supporting the request. No final decision on Phase Two options was needed; direction was to proceed with Phase One design.
  • Rachel, senior center director, noted the parking lot is often full and supported the horizontal option to minimize disruption.

Safe Streets for All (SS4A) Update

Interim Public Works Director Kendrix Anderson reported on the 49th Street corridor project:

  • Phase One (short-term): Intersection improvements at 5th Ave S, Fairfield Ave S, 11th Ave S, 15th Ave S, plus crosswalk upgrades, ADA ramps, LED lighting, and raised medians. Cost: $1.2 million ($500k city, $750k St. Pete). ILA approved in January 2026.
  • Demonstration project: $800k federal grant to test a three-lane repurposing (center turn lane) for 12 months. Temporary measures will collect data on traffic and safety. Can be removed if negative impacts occur.
  • Long-term options include either repurposing to three lanes or vertical traffic calming (not allowed in St. Pete's comp plan).
  • Councilmember Thanos raised concerns about crashes at 18th Avenue and 49th Street (wall at Trolley Market Square) and near-miss bike crashes. Anderson will discuss with St. Pete.

Public Comments & Testimony

  • Nicole Thanos (resident) presented flowers to Vice Mayor April Thanos for her service.
  • Eileen Griffo (Tangerine Ave) expressed enthusiasm for the senior center project and announced upcoming fundraisers (Leslie Smith concert March 28, golf tournament April 4).
  • Rosemary Seawall (Town Shores) asked about brick road replacement and supported closing 27th Street for parking.
  • Christopher Butler Jones (50 Second St) presented a dossier arguing that Gulfport was historically a sundown town. He criticized the council for not using the term "sundown" in its resolution. He urged acknowledgment of historical exclusion.
  • Barney Waterberry (Tangerine Ave) sang a song about Gulfport.
  • Amy Costa (Wonderworks/Midtown Business Collective) reported a successful "For the Love of Gulfport" Pride event on Tangerine Greenway.
  • Matthew Galvin (15th Ave S) thanked Vice Mayor Thanos for her service.
  • Jonathan McCoachy praised Thanos's tenacity and urged council to continue open communication.
  • Regina Buscemi reminded of the Pink Flamingo Home Tour on Saturday.
  • Charlotte Downey (13th Ave S) thanked Thanos and council for their work.
  • A resident (27th Ave S) presented a draft resolution to continue the 287G agreement with ICE "under protest," citing coercive state threats. He argued that the training costs and secrecy justify protest.
  • Angie Bredenberg invited attendees to a post-meeting party at North End Tap House.
  • Julie Jacobi (49th St S) opposed two proposed charter amendments limiting leases to five years and requiring fair market value, arguing they would harm non-profit clubs like Boca Ciega Yacht Club and Gulfport Yacht Club.
  • Wolfgang Dininger (Beachway Park) announced a community cleanup on March 7 and a "Swap and Drop" event on April 11.
  • Christine Crosby (Baywood Point Dr) supported the yacht clubs and thanked Thanos.
  • Jennifer Webb (17th Ave S) gave a legislative update: ADU bills being combined, sovereign immunity increase to $500,000, and property tax discussions. She urged contacting state representatives.
  • E-comments: Included questions about 287G liability, Lincoln Cemetery annex petition, one-way street safety, and marina AR portfolio delinquency.

Discussion Items

  • Council discussed the 287G program. Vice Mayor Thanos estimated training costs at $20,000 for seven officers and expressed desire to rescind the agreement, but acknowledged legal complications. She supported the "under protest" resolution.
  • Councilmember Shaw delivered a tribute to women in Gulfport's history for Women's History Month.
  • Councilmember Jackson promoted the Pink Flamingo Home Tour on March 7.
  • Mayor Love clarified that brick streets are replaced with bricks if disturbed. She announced a Traffic Flow Workshop on March 26 and encouraged public participation.

Key Outcomes

  • ADU Study: Council accepted the impact assessment. Staff will proceed with drafting regulations for Planning and Zoning Board review.
  • Stormwater: Council approved pursuing the Adaptation Plan grant application and supported continued work on BMPs 3, 6, and the Police/Fire project. No final funding decisions were made.
  • Senior Center: Council reached consensus to sign a letter requesting $3 million in congressional funds for Phase One. Direction was given to proceed with Phase One design; Phase Two options will be decided later.
  • Safe Streets: Phase One construction is expected to begin in 2026. The demonstration project timeline is 18–24 months after grant agreement execution. Council raised specific concerns about intersections that staff will address.
  • Public Comments: Council heard concerns about the 287G program and charter amendments; no immediate action was taken.

Meeting adjourned at approximately 8:18 PM.

Meeting Transcript

Good evening. And welcome to the March 3rd, 2026 Council meeting. After 33 years of s of saying sales meeting on Tuesdays, I still still feel like I stumble over that. But council meeting. So thank you all for being here. If there's any chance whatsoever that your phone is not been silenced, please check it and silence it. Okay. And as always, I say there's gonna be a lot of things going on tonight, and there's gonna be a lot of questions, but if you feel the urge to to ask the person next to you, I'm gonna ask that you step outside so that we only have one conversation going on at a time, all right. I appreciate that. So with that, I would say let's call this meeting to order. Oh, I did I did call it to order. You know, I get confused between that and roll call. I apologize. Okay, let me start over. I've called the meeting to order, and now we will start with the invocation, which will be given by Vice Mayor Danos for the last time, and then followed by the Pledge of Allegiance, so please stand. So usually I find a quote that seems appropriate for the time, but what's on my mind is the war. And so whether you think it's justified or not justified, that doesn't, I mean it matters, but that's not what I'm talking about. It's here, it's happening, and I'm just hoping that our national and international leaders can find a way to make it stop happening quickly, so we have minimal loss of life, because that totally worries me. So I just wanted to say that as my invocation. So thank you. Thank you. Vice Mayor Thanos? Here. Councilmember Shaw. Present. Councilmember Jackson. Here. Councilmember Early. Present. Mayor Love. Here. City Attorney Salzman. City Manager O'Reilly. Present. City Clerk Keriko is present. Thank you. So tonight we're going to um start the meetings. We have several presentations. And we're gonna start off first with a uh recognizing our officer of the year. And I believe that our city clerk is gonna read the proclamation, and then I believe our chief is going to acknowledge our officer of the year. Okay, and this is a proclamation honoring Officer Selena Ramos, 2025 officer of the year. Whereas the safety, well-being, and quality of life of our residents depend greatly upon the dedication, professionalism, and integrity of the men and women who serve our law enforcement community. And whereas Officer Selena Ramos began her employment with the City of Gulfport Police Department in 2018 and has consistently demonstrated exemplary commitment to the mission and the values of her department through outstanding service, leadership, and accountability. And whereas Officer Ramos has distinguished herself as one of the agency's strongest field training officers, maintaining training documentation that is widely regarded as unparalleled in its accuracy, thoroughness, and professionalism. And by not only meeting but evaluating, uh excuse me, elevating the standards of the field training program.

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