Rhett Butler

Key discussions included the adoption of the agenda with amendments moving the FY 23/24 Audit Report Adoption to new business and adding several change orders and the FAMU lease agreement to unfinished business. During public comment, the Commission approved a $200 reimbursement for a resident who hired a contractor to remove a hazardous tree limb. New business involved approving a Memorandum of Understanding for library courtyard improvements funded by PALS. The Commission reviewed proposed changes to the 25/26 fee schedule, including adjustments to tree removal fees, security deposits, and boat launch fees, deciding to incorporate the schedule into the budget for further review. Regarding Lethal Bronzing Disease, the Commission voted to waive tree permit fees for diseased palms, provide informational materials, and loan out inoculation kits (later amended to only provide detailed instructions). A significant portion of the meeting addressed a proposed local bill to expand the Eastpoint Water and Sewer Independent District boundaries to include Apalachicola's utility system, resulting in a decision to task staff with gathering further information. Unfinished business addressed the adoption of the FY 23/24 audit report, which confirmed the general fund was current on bank reconciliations for the first time in recent history, despite prior losses. The Commission also approved a year-to-year lease agreement for the Historic Cotton Exchange (HCA) building at $10 per year, approved change orders totaling $25,770 for well rehabilitation and force draft aerator piping/supports, and voted to extend the FAMU lease for relocation. City Manager updates included scheduling interviews for the new City Manager position and planning for the African American Museum groundbreaking.

The meeting convened but did not achieve a quorum, as only two of the seven required members were present. Therefore, substantive discussion or decisions likely could not take place.

Key discussions during the meeting included an update on the oyster harvesting and status of Apalachicola Bay, a briefing on the upcoming African American Festival, and comments regarding a local bill and the creation of a special district. The Commission addressed a request for a sewer charge refund related to irrigation issues. An Arbor Day Proclamation was approved. The first reading of Ordinance 2026-01, which repeals Ordinance 2024-01 concerning business licenses and reverts to prior status, was conducted. The City Manager was designated as the Administrative Officer for final plat approval, following legislative amendments. Hydra Engineering was approved as the contractor for the Hill Community Project M0033, although separate funding is being sought for the sidewalk portion. City Manager communications covered the operational status of the email notification system, an upcoming discussion regarding a water/wastewater rate study, resolution of facility rental deposit inconsistencies, staff training scheduling, and scheduled interviews for key staff positions. Commissioner George was appointed to attend an upcoming audit meeting with the State Auditor General's Office.

The Special Meeting addressed the city's ongoing water quality issues, including updates on well maintenance and a proposed hydrogen peroxide pilot project to combat hydrogen sulfide odors and discoloration. Unfinished business involved the Forgotten Coast Fitness and Wellness Center proposal, where representatives reported on successful mold remediation testing and requested approval of a Memorandum of Understanding to prevent litigation. The Commission also discussed and appointed Chris Holley as Interim City Manager for 30 days, with an option for a 30-day extension, following the resignation of the current City Manager. The Mayor noted ongoing efforts to review water bill concessions for residents.

The Special Meeting primarily focused on providing updates and discussing House Bill 4103 concerning the establishment of the Apalachicola Water and Sewer District as an independent special district. Key discussion points included the proposed transfer of all city-owned water and sewer assets, liabilities, and operational control to this new district, which would be governed by a board appointed by the governor, county, and city. Legal counsel provided a breakdown of the bill, emphasizing the transfer of ownership by operation of law upon enactment. Commissioners and the City Manager debated potential hybrid models, such as retaining ownership while relinquishing operational control (similar to the Gainesville model), and explored alternative revenue streams like right-of-way usage fees, as the current bill structure appeared to increase costs for users. Concerns were raised about the lack of local control, potential disruption of services during the transition, and the loss of local representation on the governing board. The Board ultimately authorized the City Attorney to secure subject-matter expert assistance for further consultation and requested Commissioner Knutson to continue serving as the city's liaison at the state level.