Steve Rivet

The meeting included discussions on the utilization of the Beautification Fund, specifically considering the replacement of a table at Cameron Preserve and the planting of a Gumbo Limbo tree at the Sandhill Crane Trailhead. There was also a discussion about planting a Java Plum Tree and Firecracker plant, along with the potential for plant description signs at the parks. The board also discussed shade options for Eschenberg Park, including a Live Oak, and the possibility of plaques for trees or benches. Member reports covered the condition of various parks and preserves, including Richard E. Cameron & Volunteers Wilderness Preserve, Disc Golf Sanctuary, Thomas Eschenberg Memorial Conservation Area, Malabar Community Park, and Sandhill Crane Trailhead. Staff reports included updates on online park reservation options and the upcoming Fallfest & Trunk'or'Treat event.

The Malabar Planning and Zoning Board held a meeting to discuss several items. They considered a request for an extension of an approved site plan for a property on Malabar Road, discussing the reasons for the delay and potential implications. The board also touched on additional items for future meetings, public comments, old business, and new business, including a request for information about the upcoming Fallfest event and updates on the storage unit construction behind Town Hall and the widening of Malabar Road.

The Malabar Planning and Zoning Board meeting included discussions on the FY 2025/2026 Capital Improvement Plan Budget Review. The board considered potential new funding sources, such as a Fire Assessment Fee or a new Cell Tower, and the potential of adding funding to the Parks and Recreation Department, with a focus on adding a dedicated Parks employee and developing community events in the park. They also discussed potential upgrades to Malabar Park, including new trees, a splash pad, concert pit or a toddler playground. The board agreed to keep items on the County plan in their CIP and discussed the potential development of Jordan Blvd and the town's plan for the current Town Hall building when the new Town Hall is built.

The meeting included discussions and actions related to several key areas. A Robert's Rules of Order refresher was conducted to clarify agenda procedures. The board discussed soccer field improvements and the park reservation policy, including potential agreements with sports leagues and the importance of public access. Reports were given on various parks and preserves, including the Richard E. Cameron & Volunteers Wilderness Preserve, Disc Golf Sanctuary, Thomas Eschenberg Memorial Conservation Area, Malabar Community Park, and Sandhill Crane Trailhead. Issues such as garbage removal, trail usage, fitness station maintenance, and the presence of homeless individuals were addressed.

The meeting included discussions on the Fiscal Year 25/26 Budget, focusing on compiling a list of operating and maintenance items for each park location, including repainting handicap parking spaces, replacing the bike rack at the Sandhill Trailhead, addressing faded and dilapidated signs, and managing the firepit at Malabar Community Park. The board discussed the removal of a tree stump, the condition of glass message boards, and a leaking pavilion roof. Other topics included the removal or replacement of soccer nets, the condition of a bridge leading to the pavilion, bent fencing around the baseball field, revamping the batting cage, broken bleachers, and the addition of dog bags. There was also a discussion on the utilization of Beautification Funds and reports on various parks and preserves.