Karin Grooms

The special magistrate meeting addressed quasi-judicial proceedings regarding alleged code violations. The first matter concerned a request for a rehearing for case number 25-54 involving Coconut Cove Yacht Club, Inc., which was granted by consent to be reheard on February 11th. The second case, 25-46 involving Mary Goldamp, concerned property unsafe conditions, including dilapidated structures, sanitation violations, and infestation, leading to a finding of continued violation and assessment of a $250 daily fine starting from May 27th, 2025, with an added finding that the property represents a fire hazard. The third case heard was 25-271 for Al Alia Place LLC, concerning violations related to permits, inspections, sanitary drainage system, exterior structure, staircases, porches, balconies, and exterior property areas. Despite some apparent remedial actions by the respondent, violations remained, particularly concerning unpermitted staircase repairs and the unrepaired parking lot, resulting in the continuation of daily fines.

The meeting commenced with the Pledge of Allegiance and an invocation. Key discussions included staff reports on upcoming events such as a vulnerability assessment public outreach meeting and the America 250th celebration. Updates were provided on ongoing projects, including the pool liner project and sewer line repairs. Under the consent agenda, the Commission approved minutes from a previous meeting, the schedule for a town hall meeting, a mutual aid agreement for fire and emergency services, and an extension to the city's banking contract. New business involved the approval of proposals for engineering design and permitting for the Ocean Beach Boulevard Park and surveying/engineering for the Minutemen Shoreline Erosion Project Phase 2. A significant discussion focused on changing the city seal, specifically debating replacing the 'Jewel of the Space Coast' designation with 'East Coast Surfing Capital,' with strong arguments presented regarding the importance of retaining the space program reference due to the city's history and future in technology.

The meeting commenced with roll call for both the Police and Fire Pension Boards, followed by a public comment period, during which no comments were offered. The boards proceeded to approve the minutes of the last meeting and subsequently approved the current period's expenses. A presentation detailed investment performance, noting a positive start to the new fiscal year, with US equity markets performing strongly, although large cap growth experienced some rotation towards value. International equity performed well due to a weakening US dollar and reshoring themes. The presentation reviewed ten-year performance for both the FIRE and Police funds, showing nearly double the assets over the decade with an 8.5% return. Asset allocation confirmed both plans were compliant with their investment policies, though slightly overweight in domestic and international equity. Discussion also covered the ongoing liquidation of ASB assets, noting cautious optimism with reduced office allocation. A brief update on cryptocurrency exposure showed minor holdings in certain underlying manager portfolios, such as Barrick Mining Corp.

The meeting commenced with the Pledge of Allegiance and an invocation. Key discussion points focused heavily on temporary signage regulations, particularly for open houses, garage sales, and estate sales, with public commentary urging more reasonable and clear regulations regarding placement, quantity, and duration. In response, the Commission adopted a temporary resolution for a 30-day moratorium on the enforcement of certain temporary sign violations to allow time for reviewing and developing a permanent ordinance, ensuring fairness, including for upcoming commission campaigns. Separate concerns addressed the chaotic and dangerous use of electric bikes and scooters on city streets, especially on Minute Man Causeway, prompting confirmation that enforcement actions, including ticketing for unregistered motor vehicle violations on sidewalks, are underway and will be increased. Additionally, general public comments were made regarding the city's CBNN communication tool and general municipal tax policies.

This management plan for the City of Cocoa Beach's Maritime Hammock Preserve outlines a long-term strategy for providing public green space, restoring natural communities, and offering passive recreational opportunities. Key objectives include controlling invasive species, restoring the maritime hammock and creating a wetland community, protecting native wildlife habitats, and developing amenities such as nature and fitness trails, and educational signage.