CITY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING - May 07, 2026

Good evening, and welcome to the May 7, 2026 City Commission meeting. I want to call the meeting to order, and we'll start with our invocation and Pledge of Allegiance by Jen, our city attorney. Let us begin this meeting by taking a brief moment of silence and reflection. Amen. I pledge allegiance to the Lord of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands, one nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. Okay, we are going to start with Teacher's Appreciation Week Proclamation 2026, and I believe Jeanette comes forward for that, and I will turn it over to Commissioner Gao. Right. Well, come on down, Jeanette. You know, it's Teacher Appreciation Week, and it certainly should be every day. It should be Teacher Appreciation Day. These are people who dedicate their lives and are incredibly passionate to helping the young ones among us. And so this is certainly worthy of a proclamation at minimum, if not a whole lot more. Teacher Appreciation Week 2026. Whereas Teacher Appreciation Week is observed nationally during the first full week of May, and teaching is a profession that requires the ability and desire to impact knowledge, creativity, patience, and persistence, and to adapt all learning environments for all students. And whereas teachers dedicate themselves to their students' academic success, as well as their social and emotional well-being. And whereas because of the changing needs of young people in our schools, teachers must be constantly learning and evolving their methods of instruction. And whereas besides parents and family members, teachers are the single most influential individuals in the lives of our students and their future. And whereas teachers inspire the next generation and make it possible for kids to realize their potential. And whereas devoted teachers in Dunedin are working countless hours and putting forth extra effort to help students achieve, preparing them for future education, their workforce, and their civic duties. Now, therefore, I, Jeff Gow, by the virtue of the authority vested in me by the mayor of the city of Dunedin, and on behalf of this entire city commission, do hereby proclaim Teacher Appreciation Week May 4th through May 8th, 2026, and during this week, encourage parents, students, community partners, and citizens to show admiration and gratitude to the teachers in our schools. So, I'm Jeanette Donahue, the president of the Chamber of Commerce, and we'd like to thank all of our teachers and for all that they do here for our great city of Dunedin. As National Teachers Week is almost over, but the Chamber Foundation appreciates you all year long. We'll be dropping off some goodies to all the Dunedin schools the week of the 18th. So, be excited because we're going to be coming around to all the schools with a lot of fun stuff. So, keep you fueled up for the rest of the school year. So, we're excited about that. So, the principals will be emailing you and setting up a date and coming out to see you with some fun stuff for all the teachers. So, thank you. Thank you, Jeanette. And, of course, now we go into one of my favorite times with you. Oh, we need pictures. Oh, we need pictures. Never mind. Hold on. Yeah, that's a great idea. All the teachers in the room, come on up here. We'll get you all in this. But we've got to get close. We've got to get close. Okay, now, unless that young one wants to come up here and pretend to be mayor and take a... Anyway. Okay. One of my favorite times of the year. The annual City of Dunedin Mayor Top Apple School Awards. And we'll all say a few words after that's done. But we're just so proud of our school. So proud of our teachers. You know, I mean, parents, first of all, can't do it all. And some parents don't do as much as they should. But, and our teachers are there to pick it up no matter what it is. So, really appreciate it. So, I will turn it over to our Library Director, Phyllis, who's way brighter on this than I am. So, go ahead. Thank you, Mayor, Commissioners. Phyllis Gorshi, Library Director. And I am so fortunate to get to head up the Mayor's Top Apple School Awards. I want to thank the Youth Services Department. Our librarians read through all the applications for the awards. So, I didn't get to pick because they're just all so wonderful. It's really hard to pick. So, the Mayor's Top Apple School Awards. First, we give awards to all of our A schools, which is by the Department of Education that give them a grade. This year, and I'm going to call up the schools. Not everyone could be here this evening. San Jose has their curriculum night tonight. And, I know Dunedin Middle has their spring concert, but their assistant principal is here. So, our A schools for this year are Academy Da Vinci. Come on up. Come on up. Curtis Fundamental. Yay. Dunedin Highland Middle School. I'm going to go. Thank you. Garrison Jones. And I know their assistant principal is here. Yes. So, if you guys can all go up there for your Top Apple, your A award. And our schools that couldn't be here this evening, we're going to make sure to deliver their awards. And we also have an apple for you. So, this is our first round of awards. We're going to get pictures as we go, right? I think we get pictures as we go. All right. Let's move this way a little bit. Perfect. Yes. Perfect. Okay. That's excellent. Oops. Ready? Oh, what's missing? Oh, better. Thank you. Congratulations. You're welcome. You're welcome. End of the school year pictures they're going to have to take. So, now we have individual awards. And our first is excellence in technology. We have Natalie Paul from Academy Da Vinci Charter School. Ms. Paul has created a dynamic technology program that equips students with critical 21st century skills, including coding, robotics, 3D printing, and digital productivity. A hallmark of her program is her emphasis on entrepreneurship and real-world problem solving. And she inspires students to see themselves as creators, engineers, and future leaders in a technology-driven world. So, congratulations, Paula. Should we do a picture? Each time? Each time? Yeah. Okay. You want each time or all together? Let me do your photo up. Let's do them all together. Let's do them all together. Yeah. Okay. Thank you so much. Our health and wellness initiative goes to Haley Kukulek, and she's at San Jose. She couldn't be here this evening, as their curriculum night is happening right now. But I wanted to share a few words, and it's very impressive because San Jose Elementary is one of America's healthiest schools. They were awarded in nine out of nine areas throughout America's Healthiest Schools Alliance for a Healthier Generation annual recognition program. And what I love is that Haley is the San Jose's wellness champion, and she says that she doesn't do it alone. She appreciates the help from Alana Breitling, the cafe manager, Tony Mueller, the PE coach, and their principal, who all provides support so that San Jose can be one of the healthiest schools in America. So, congratulations to them. Our next award is Achievement in the Arts, and that goes to Orlando Pena from Academy Da Vinci. Congratulations. Orlando brings a distinguished career in dance, a musical theater spanning over two decades. At Academy Da Vinci, he has elevated their school arts program. He has helped produce and choreograph school-wide musicals like The Wizard of Oz. Just to plug, it's Friday, May 20th, so at the community center, so you can attend. Finding Nemo and The Little Mermaid. He has also developed and engaged in performances for their younger students, K-3. And Dino Soaring is May 13th at Dunedin Community Center. Lots of options to see their shows and support Academy Da Vinci. In addition to his educational impact, he is deeply committed to community service as an active member of Dunedin Rotary and supporting local organizations. So, congratulations, Orlando. Our next award is for Visionary Leadership. Now, in its 56th year, the Dunedin High NJROTC program has long been a model of excellence in leadership, citizenship, and service. At the regional Iron Bear competition in Brooksville, the cadets improved upon last year's program, best second-place finish by earning first place overall. And at the Iron Knight competition at the University of Central Florida, five female cadets competed in the all-female Raiders Division and captured first place, yet another first in program history. In February, the unit earned third place, finished at the All-Navy State of Florida Championship, the first top three finish in school history, qualifying them for the All-Navy National Championship. Under the dedicated leadership of Commander Jones and Chief Johnson, the program has experienced tremendous growth over the past six years. And more importantly, their cadets have developed into disciplined, confident, and service-oriented leaders who positively impact both our school and community. Their principal noted, while their list of accomplishments continues to grow, and they were just at that championship last week. So a lot has happened since this application. Oh, they probably couldn't hear that on the air, though. Okay, so when you come up. I'd like to hear that so that the audience can hear that outside of us, the virtual audience. Yeah, so we'll call them up. But what stands out most is their culture of excellence, resilience, and leadership that defines this unit. So I will have you come on up. You want to say a few words? Yeah, if you could just tell us what those extra awards were, we'd like to hear about them. Yes, last weekend we competed in the All-Service National Drill and Fitness Competition in Daytona, Florida. We moved up to Division II and drill from Division, we had been in Division III, but we moved it up to Division II at hearted category. And we finished number four in color guard out of all of the schools there in the nation. And we finished number four in the beach run for the all-female fitness team. That's awesome. Okay, and our last award is our Golden Apple Teacher of the Year. It is my great honor to introduce Senora Vasquez, Marianela Vasquez-Lanas. This one is special because both of my kids had her, so it's so amazing. But it's been a while because they're both graduating. So Principal Tapia have noted, the Principal of Garrison-Jones noted that she has had the privilege of observing Senora Vasquez's outstanding instructional practice, her unwavering dedication to her students, and her ability to lead with professionalism, innovation, and heart. She is truly one of the finest educators I have had the pleasure of working alongside. Her students consistently achieve exceptional results, particularly in math and science, where they have outperformed district and state expectations. As a dual-language teacher in a Title I school, Senora Vasquez delivers instruction in Spanish with remarkable clarity, rigor, and creativity. She delivers all of her instruction in Spanish, including written materials, student tasks, and PowerPoint presentations. This past school year, 97.2% of her students were proficient in science. 86% of her students were proficient in math, while 94% of her students made gains in math. Leadership beyond the classroom, Senora Vasquez, has emerged as a leader within the school community, and she was named Teacher of the Year for the school and honored with the prestigious award from us here and at the Pinellas County level as well. Principal Tapia said, in summary, Senora Vasquez embodies the qualities of an outstanding character. She advances student learning, models best instructional practices, demonstrates leadership, and forges strong parent and community connections. She is a true asset to our school and to the field of education. Congratulations. Congratulations. So as the Teacher of the Year, would you like to say a few words? That's a big deal. A very big deal. En español? I only know hola, hola, como estas, that's about it. Anyway, go ahead. It's an honor for me to be here. When I hear that word, I feel so honored. When I stand up here, I just not represent myself. I feel like I represent my coworkers, my students, and my amazing administrator that support me in order to do what I need to do every day. It's very challenging to be a teacher, but when you have a call and when you have a change, a lot of people that support you, you wake up every morning to try to do yourself the best that you can and do your best for your school, for your student, and for the whole community. So thank you so much for having me here tonight. It's a really honor to be here. Thank you. Okay, since we are the Mayor of Zappos Awards, I'm coming down for this picture. Mayor, can I get the cadets with the commander real quick? Absolutely. Thank you. You guys, you know, I'm all about the centering here. And thank you guys. And they are incredible, and Commander-in-Chief does such a great job building that leadership with them. And yes, 14th out of 636 in the Navy Nationals. Great job. Thank you guys. Thank you. Okay. Before you all leave, I'd like to give the commission a chance to make some comments. I'll start with Vice Mayor. You know, this is, I won't speak for my colleagues, but I'm pretty sure I know how they feel. This is one of our favorite things to do when we get to recognize our educators and just see the absolutely amazing things that are happening in our schools. And, you know, it's just, it is so remarkable, it's almost overwhelming. And I'm just so proud of this community. I'm so proud of our educators. I'm so proud of all the accomplishments that every single year we seem to set the bar a little bit higher. So, thank you for what you do. Commissioner Sandbergen. Well, as the first line to motivate, to educate, you know, your teachers are, in some cases, probably the most important adult role model in some of these kids' lives. I admire your ability to adapt to the change in teaching. With the technology, things have changed since I was young. And I commend you to be able to change on the fly into, you know, these kids are our future. And thank you for everything that you do with them. Commissioner Gough. Teaching is certainly not a nine-to-five job. I was a teacher. Jeanette Donahue, who received the proclamation, was a teacher. My mother was a teacher. My father was a teacher. My sister was a teacher. So, lots of education in our family. And it's not just, do we get spring break off, we get Christmas break off. It is 24-7, 365 to be a teacher. And we can't thank you enough for your passion, your dedication, certainly in times of turmoil, budget cuts, and things of that nature. I know y'all are dealing with that now. And it's hard. But yet, every day, you stand in front of those students. And the students that you're teaching aren't the best and the brightest that the parents are bringing. They're what they have at home. And so, you get every student. And you have to adapt and change. And you have to figure it out. What is the best strategy? And the strategies are always changing. So, thank you is just certainly not enough. But you're so appreciated for what you do. So, thank you very, very much. Commissioner Degard. Thank you, Mayor. The challenge and privilege of going last is a lot of good things have already been said about a lot of great people. I think I hearken back to the teachers that made a difference in my life as I look at you. And realize that there were certain moments in my life that could have pivoted in a different direction. Had it not been for a good teacher, someone that showed a little interest in me, and somebody that made the day a little more special. I have the sense that Dunedin schools are just the place where that happens. I think all of you should be very proud. Thank you, Mayor. So, a couple months ago, I was in Atlanta, Georgia, and my niece teaches there, Heather. And she asked me, before I came, to speak as mayor to 60 kindergartners. And all I could think of is, this could go really bad, right? And, but when I got there, of course, all the kindergarten teachers were around there, around the kids, and in a central room. And then there was a little platform, and there was a chair for me and a chair for Heather. So, I laughed because it's like, great, they're protecting me. And so, they kind of led the discussion, so I couldn't fall. But I just am amazed by teachers, no matter what the grade, because all the grades have their challenges. And I just, you know, this world doesn't really appreciate, I think, as much as they should, the value of what you provide. A lot of people do, but, you know, not enough people do. And you are really the backbone of raising our kids, and it's just critical. And, of course, we all know it's all about education in the end, as kids grow up and try to achieve. So, it's, and again, it's the intellectual skills, the smart skills, but the social skills, and all those rest in your hands as teachers. And so, it's a sacred trust, and as Mayor of Dunedin, I thank you, I congratulate you, you're amazing, and let's do a standing ovation. Thank you very much. Okay, we are going to go on to the next, and don't feel like you have to stay, it's okay. Okay, we're going to move on to 57th Annual Professional Municipal Clerks Week Proclamation, May 3rd through the 9th, 2026. I will turn that over to Commissioner Dugard. Thank you, Mayor. Would all the city clerks in the room come forward, please? Thank you. You know, these are special people to us. The proclamation is all written out by people who, like, long words. But these people, a few minutes ago, I saw my colleague over there getting passwords. We walk down a small corridor, inside a door, and they're on the other side of it to help us on a daily basis. And it could be something trivial, like, what happened at this meeting, or how did that go? And they're always there. But they're more than that. They're a whole window to a community. And I think after I read the proclamation, you'll understand. The Office of Professional Municipal Clerk, a time-honored and vital part of local government, exists throughout the world. And whereas the Office of Professional Municipal Clerk is the oldest among public servants. And whereas the Office of Professional Municipal Clerk provides the professional link between the citizens, the local governing bodies, and the agencies of government at other levels. And whereas professional municipal clerks have privileged to be ever mindful of their neutrality and impartiality, rendering equal service to all. And whereas the Professional Municipal Clerk serves as the information center on functions of local government and community. And whereas professional municipal clerks continually strive to improve the administration of the affairs of the Office of the Professional Municipal Clerk through participation in education programs, seminars, workshops, and the annual meetings of their state, provincial, county, and international professional organizations. And whereas it is most appropriate that we recognize the accomplishments of the Office of the Professional Municipal Clerk, now, therefore, I, Tom Dugard, by the virtue of the authority vested in me from the mayor of the city of Dunedin, Florida, and on behalf of the entire city commission, do hereby proclaim the week of May 3rd through 9th, 2026, as Professional Municipal Clerk's Week. And further extend appreciation to our Professional Municipal Clerk, Michelle Wells, and to all Professional Municipal Clerks for their vital services they perform and their exemplary dedication to the communities they represent. Now, I'm going to come down and give you this. No. Thank you, sir. Appreciate it. Thank you very much. Mayor, Vice Mayor, and Commissioners, myself, and our Deputy City Clerk, Heather Drake, would like to thank you for recognizing Professional Municipal Clerk's Week and the dedication and hard work of our City Clerk's Office. From managing agendas, public records, boards and committees, our municipal cemetery, and facilitating elections to providing essential administrative support, our team works behind the scenes to help keep our community running smoothly. We strive to maintain transparency, efficiency, and integrity to serve our residents and are honored to receive this acknowledgement and are proud to serve the City of Dunedin. So thank you again. And I know... Oh, picture, yes. Yeah, we've got to get this picture. Here we go. And I know Michelle's favorite thing to do is public speaking, right? So good job. Okay, next we will go to Older Americans Month, 2026 proclamation, and I will turn that to Vice Mayor Walker, and I believe we have Cindy Cole, well, Nicole from the Health Center. We have Cindy Cole, Chair of Committee on Aging, Anne-Marie Winter, Executive Director of Area Aging, and Aging of Pasco Pinellas. I hope I said that right. So, okay. And anybody else you guys say is supposed to be up here. So, okay. Turn it over. Thank you, Mayor. You know, you all do so much for our aging community here, and I just, you know, and you see examples of it everywhere, and just, you know, the latest one was the Senior Hall of Fame, and every year the event gets bigger, better, and it was awesome. So, on to the proclamation. Older America's Month, 2026. Whereas the City of Dunedin includes a growing number of older Americans who contribute their time, wisdom, and experience to our community. And whereas community benefit when people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds have the opportunity to participate and live independently. And Dunedin and the Area Agency on Aging of Pasco Pinellas recognize the need to create a community that offers the services and support older adults may need to make choices about how they age. And Dunedin and Dunedin and Dunedin and the Area Agency on Aging of Pasco Pinellas can work to build an even better community for our older residents by reframing our thinking about aging, exploring and combating stereotypes, emphasizing the many positive aspects of aging, inspiring older adults to push past traditional boundaries, and embracing our community's diversity. Now, therefore I, Robert James Walker, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Mayor of the City of Dunedin, Florida, and on behalf of the entire City Commission, do hereby proclaim May 2026 to be Older Americans Month. The City of Dunedin and the Area Agency on Aging of Pasco Pinellas urge every resident to celebrate our older citizens, help to create an inclusive society, and accept the challenge of flexible thinking around aging. Thank you. Thank you, Vice Mayor. Thank you, Mayor, Commission. I'm honored to accept this proclamation on behalf of Dunedin Parks and Recreation Department and the Committee on Aging. My name is Nicole Allen. I'm the Recreation Coordinator at the Hale Senior Activity Center and City Liaison to the Dunedin Committee on Aging. I'm joined here tonight by Anne-Marie Winter of the Area Agency on Aging, Pasco Pinellas, along with Committee on Aging, Senator Cindy Cole. This year, Older's American Month theme, Champion Your Health, reminds us of the importance of staying active, connected, and engaged to support healthy aging and overall well-being. Each day at the Hale Senior Activity Center, I have the privilege of seeing older adults challenge themselves by learning new skills, building friendships, and making a difference. They are physically active, socially connected, and mentally engaged. They are truly championing their health. They are a powerful reminder that aging is not about slowing down. It's just getting started. It's about continuing to grow, contribute, and thrive. At the Hale Senior Activity Center, we bring this vision to life every day through affordable recreation programs, fitness and exercise classes, dance and music programs, cards and games, arts and craft programs, support groups and services, educational seminars, computer and tech seminars, and other lifelong learning opportunities, as well as fun social events. These offerings help older adults stay active, connected, and engaged. Just as importantly, we cultivate a strong sense of community through volunteerism and meaningful partnerships with local organizations. A perfect segue. So it's time. It's at this time. I'd like to invite Anne-Marie from the Area Agency on Aging to share a few words. Following her, Cindy Cole from the Committee on Aging will recap our wonderful Senior Hall of Fame event that took place yesterday afternoon, which, again, was another inspiring example of a community spirit. Thank you, Nicole. Well, Mayor Freeney, Commissioners, my name is Anne-Marie Winter, and I work with the Area Agency on Aging of Pasco Pinellas. We are tasked to make Florida a great place for seniors to age in place so that they can live in their homes for as long as possible. We help our most vulnerable neighbors, those seniors that are not sure where their next meal is going to come from, how they're going to get to their next doctor appointment. Do they need legal services? Do they need some home services so they can continue to live in their homes with dignity, safety, and independence? And we couldn't do that without the amazing partners that we have. We fund about 53 local organizations, but we also partner with amazing cities like the City of Dunedin, where we provide health and wellness classes, mental health services, and a wide range of services to help our seniors be as active as possible. Because, after all, we all want to get there, just not too soon. Thank you very much for recognizing Older Americans Month. Well, where do I begin about the luncheon yesterday? A lion sleeps tonight. That was really an awesome luncheon for our Senior Hall of Fame, Eric Holton and Alan Kynes. And our guest speaker was Roy Ernst, who was 88 years old. He did about this job, I think, and he had us singing, dancing, clamping, and he played that song, or the jungle. But anyway, it was... We had to do animal sounds, too. I know, we did live. Are you going to do one for us, or no? Yeah, you know what I mean? We did... Eek, eek, eek, eek, eek. Oh, there you go. The lion sleeps tonight. But anyway, it was great. It was like community. We, community coming together, celebrating our two Senior Hall of Fames, who has done so much for our Dunedin. And the love, and the support, and just everything. And that's what's keeping our seniors going forward, because we're such a vibrant city, and we do have a great Senior Center. The Hale Center is great. Not only is the weight room great, but just so much stuff. And I'm so proud to be the Chair of Committee on Aging, Dunedin. Thank you. Cindy? Okay. Go ahead. I did mention to the City Manager yesterday that I really wanted the two winners to be able to come to one of our meetings, so we want to be able to coordinate that. Maybe we'll give a little bit of a bio and just give them a chance to say something. Because it is a big deal. And when I walk down all the plaques with the pictures of the Hall of Famers, I mean, I've been in this town 40 years. And trust me, they are Hall of Famers. They are true contributors over the years to our community. And it's a big deal. And we want to have them come so we can make sure we have them on camera here. That would be great. And they're shy. Well, yeah. I'm just going to let you know they're shy. I think they'll be fine. They were nervous about being there. They're attorneys. They're both attorneys. They kept saying, do we have to talk? Do we have to talk? You know. Anyway, there you go. I will. Thank you. Now let's get a picture. Okay. Thank you very much. Okay. We've hit the part of the meeting. Citizen input. Does anyone in the audience wish to speak on a topic that is not on the agenda? Okay. Seeing no one, I will close the public hearing on citizen input and go to consent agenda. We have on the consent agenda approval of the minutes for the 3-5-2026 regular meeting and 3-19-2026 regular meeting. 2-B is increased purchase order amount for contracted services with Reftelis Financial Consultants, Inc. for the completed solid waste rate sufficiency study and financial consulting services, which that was a very minor amount. That's 3,000. I don't have that on here. 3,000 what? Thank you. 3,165. So it's, again, it's because of a little extra work, but it's not a lot of money. I mean, that's a lot of money to me, but still in the relative speaking. 2-C is settlement agreement in the amount of $35,000, Maurice Welch versus City of Dunedin. Is there anything that anyone wants to be pulled off? Just a quick question on 2-B. Okay. So we'll pull off 2-B. Okay. And then anyone, anything else? Okay. Could I have a motion for 2-A and 2-C? So moved. Second. Okay. Okay. Is there anyone in the audience that wishes to speak on either of those items? Seeing no one, I will close public input. And all in favor? Aye. Aye. Any opposed? Okay. Motion passes unanimously. Okay. We will go to the 2-B. Do you want a presentation or just a question? Just a very quick question. I know it was a small amount, but so was it an increase in just the ceiling or is it the actual invoiced amount? It just wasn't clear. It's the total, the additional total. So it's $53,000. The ceiling? $135,95. Okay. All right. Perfect. Okay. That's all I have. Okay. Thank you. Okay. Any other questions? Good job. Any other questions on that? Okay. I was going to say it would have been kind of fun if you had another question. You guys were all getting up. Okay. Could I have a motion? So moved. Second. Okay. Anyone in the audience wish to come forward and speak on this issue? Okay. Seeing no one, I will close public input. All in favor? Aye. Aye. Any opposed? Motion passes unanimously. Okay. We're going to go to action items. The first one is 3A, Historic Preservation Advisory Committee Continuance. And there's staff presentation. I'll turn it over to Francis and Vice Chair. Ellie. Good evening, Mayor, Vice Mayor, Commissioners, Francis Leong Sharp, Planner 2 for the City of Devedon, as well as the staff liaison to the Historic Preservation Advisory Committee. This evening, we do have our Vice Chair here that will provide some highlights of what the committee has accomplished. Unfortunately, our Chair is not able to be here this evening, but she does send her regards. And so we have Ellie McCook that will fill in in our Chairperson Deborah Kynes' place for the, I guess, summary of accomplishments and projects that the committee has worked on. Welcome, Ellie. Thank you. First of all, I want to thank Francis and what a great job she's done with the committee. We have a committee that I feel, and I think Francis would agree, and so would Deborah. Very committed, hardworking, and very, very action-oriented. Since the last time we were here, three years ago, we've completed three surveys for possible designations in the city. These were all paid by grants that Francis was so great to help us achieve through the state of Florida. We've designated 26 landmark properties. We've actually processed 11 COA applications. And we've spent the last three years working on revisions to the proposed historic preservation ordinance and certificate of appropriateness, which was a great learning experience for me and I know the other members of the committee. We've spent a lot of time. There was a lot of work that went into this. We had our first hearing before the commission workshop in December of 2024. The ordinance, again, was brought before the commission in March of 2025. We've taken those feedbacks, the feedback that we've achieved in those particular situations. The changes were made to address this feedback, and the committees revised the ordinance. The Historic Preservation Advisory Committee is now scheduled to review the final draft this coming Thursday, May the 14th. And from there, we're going to present it to the LPA on June the 10th, and then it's going to come back to you all, the city commission, on July 9th and then again August 6th. So we're looking forward to actually bringing all of this to some sort of completion. We feel very positive that this is what we needed in order to be able to move forward within the committee. We also look forward to the fact that what we really need to do is stress over and over and over again that this is a voluntary situation for residents and that it's something that's very positive and very, very beneficial not only to the resident but to the city. And that this is also something that we feel that as we do this, we're going to be able to get more applications and really bring this on forward. We've made it a lot simpler for people to understand. We've made the COA process a lot simpler. Hopefully it will save a lot of people, a lot of time, staff, yourselves, where, you know, simple, simple changes will be really very easily accomplished as they have their residences designated. So, any questions? Any questions, Vice Mayor? Commissioner Sandberg? No questions. Commissioner Gow? No questions. Commissioner Dugard? No questions, thank you. And I don't have any either. Certainly thank you for all you guys do and, you know, history is so important to us and you're doing the hard work and we really appreciate it. Thank you. So keep doing what you're going to do. Thank you. Okay, we have to, we are going to vote on it. Yep. And so, let's see. Okay. First, I've got to open it for public input. Anyone in the audience wish to come forward and speak on this issue? Okay. I'll close public input and I will ask for a motion. So moved. Second. Okay, I think I had. Dugard? Yep. Mr. Dugard. Okay. And I'll ask any commission comments, starting with the maker of the motion, Vice Mayor. No, just to echo the mayor's comments. It's, you know, what you guys do, what the committee does is so important. And it's, it's, it's integrated into the fabric of our community. And thank you. And seconder of the motion, Commissioner Dugard. Thank you, Mayor. Over and over again, we are approached by a community citizen asking us to make sure we preserve the essence of Dunedin. And, uh, you're right at the forefront of that. And, uh, this motion, this continuance makes impeccable sense. Uh, and I want you to know, I am grateful for what you guys do. Thank you. Okay. Uh, Commissioner Gow. Thank you, Mayor. Uh, already said, already mentioned, uh, the real appreciation for what you all do will be seen 30, 50, 75, 100 years from now. So, so thank you for what you're doing. I really do appreciate it. Commissioner Sanbury. I appreciate your energy taking the past and bringing it forward, tying it to today. Um, I know you're an active committee and, uh, you do the right thing for the community and I certainly support you. So, thank you. Thank you. Thank you very much. And again, you know, um, our history is part of what keeps us, keeps our charm, makes us special. Uh, so, again, keep doing what you're doing. You're doing good stuff. Thank you. Thank you, too, Francis. Okay. Um, I did not take a vote on that, right? I know. I'm, I'm, you know, the history's just got me so moved, right? Okay. So, all in favor? Aye. Aye. Aye. Any opposed? Motion passes unanimously. Okay. I'll go to 3B, which is first hearing of application DR 2026-0001. Request for design review approval for the development of a mixed-use project consisting of 12 townhomes, a retail winery, and a 7-room hotel on the 1.05-acre vacant property located at 265 Causeway Boulevard and 10, 12, 14, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, and 26 Outlook Way. Okay. Wow. All right. So, this is a quasi-judicial hearing. Um, so I'm going to open the public hearing, and I will ask the city clerk to swear in anyone who's going to provide testimony. Okay. And has anyone up here had any ex parte communications that they want, they need to disclose for the record? Okay. Okay. So, we'll turn to staff presentation, George and Bob. Oh, George. Just George. Just George. I got Bob down here, too, but just George. We gave Bob the night off. Thank you. Okay. That's good. Mayor, Vice, Mayor, Commissioners, thank you very much. George Kinney on behalf of the Community Development Department. Um, for many of you up there, this is going to look familiar. Because you saw this project about two years ago now. Um, and I'll kind of walk through why it's back, but I kind of want to walk through the entire presentation with you and start with the general location and the applicant information. Uh, this is Design Review 2026-0001. Uh, it's Design Review approval for the 265 Causeway project. Uh, the applicant is Anthony Paul Terrace. Uh, it is approximately 1.05 acres. The land use plan for the site is Coastal High Hazard Area with retail and services, and the zoning district is tourist facility. Uh, currently the site is vacant, but is anticipated to be developed as will be presented. Um, just by way of location, you can see the map to the left. It shows you the location of the subject property. It's really to the, to the right of that screen is the marker one marina. Across the street is some very retail and residential uses, and to the, uh, to the, uh, south part of the slide is, uh, primarily, uh, upper, higher scale condo, uh, residential types of uses. Uh, from a project description standpoint, this is a, uh, mixed-use development on the property, uh, buildings A, which is on the upper left, and building C on lower middle are identical buildings with four townhomes each for a total of eight units. Uh, both buildings are three stories in height with two floors of living area and rooftop patios over ground floor parking. Uh, building B in the upper center, uh, is the same style of building from a residential standpoint, but also then includes a small winery on the far side to the right. Um, um, that, that retail winery space is two floors, uh, also including ground floor parking and a rooftop patio. Uh, to the lower right, marked as the J Annex, that is a four-story, seven-room hotel building with three floors of desk, uh, rooms over ground floor parking. And then, as you can see by that, uh, slide to the top, there are additional amenities that include surface parking, uh, the swimming pool and cabana in the lower left side, uh, and then you can see the dumpster locations on the upper left side. From a project history standpoint, uh, many of you that have lived in Dunedin a long time probably remember when this was formerly occupied by, uh, approximately 7,000-square-foot restaurant and lounge, uh, that operated under several names in the past, including the Louisiana Seafood Company, Chatters Faces Restaurant and Lounge. Uh, Blue Waters Grill and the Vineyard. Uh, it was demolished in 2005 and the property has remained vacant since, uh, although I will move to the next slide. There was, uh, uh, 10 years, uh, after that, um, restaurant was demolished. There was a previous approval that was granted by the commission, uh, back in June of 2015, uh, 2015. And the project, you may recall, was called Arcadia Luxury Condominiums. It was a 16-unit condominium development that was proposed for the property. Uh, it also had some amenities that included, uh, surface parking, a swimming pool, uh, were also planned as part of the project. Uh, that, that's, this Arcadia project never came to fruition and the property was ultimately purchased by the current owner in early 2023. And then several of you were on the, on the dais when, uh, this was initially heard, um, oops, I'm sorry, let me go back here. Yeah, several of you are on the dais when this was initially heard in July of 2024, where the city commission unanimously recommended the project for design review, uh, at, at the first hearing. Um, what happened in the interim is the owner, as part of that approval process, as you recall, our staff report always, uh, notes what the land development code says. And it talks about having to secure vertical building permits and infrastructure, infrastructure approval, uh, within 12 months. So that did not happen, uh, but the applicants, uh, are back to kind of renew the project. The project is exactly the same as was approved back in 2024, um, but again, uh, design review approvals are required to submit a new design review application, which is what this application represents. So, um, you are seeing really the same project and I'll go through some of the considerations that were heard at that initial meeting, um, back in 2024. So if you'll recall, there were several, uh, key discussion items. One was assuring that there was enough parking for the winery. Uh, and as you can see, the applicant responded at that time and continues to respond in the same fashion that they have provided, uh, 30, uh, 36, uh, parking space surplus over what's required for the site. Um, and that is primarily to accommodate the use of the winery. Uh, if you'll recall, the commission also considered, um, at the time, um, a potential application. Access to the causeway, um, discussions with Pinellas County at that time, um, uh, from the applicant's perspective, uh, Pinellas County would not offer, authorize that access to the causeway. So that access was removed and the, the access to the site is fully granted through the Gary, the Gary circle access. Uh, finally, there was a request to break down the winery from a square footage standpoint, and that's what item three represents on the right-hand side of the screen. Uh, and you can see that break down the ground floor, excluding parking is 621 square feet. The second floor, 851, the third floor roof access, approximately 63 square feet and the rooftop patio at 720 for a total, uh, floor area of about 2,255 square feet. In the interim, um, actually, uh, so after this was approved and about one year later, uh, the plat for that approval was, was completed. And the commission may remember, uh, uh, unanimously approving that plat under resolution 25-09. This slide represents that plat and how it's constructed. So it shows the 12 units and it shows the two commercial out parcels, including that for the hotel on the lower right and the winery on the upper right-hand side. Um, from a land use plan evaluation, uh, this is, uh, as mentioned before, coastal high hazard, coastal high hazard area, uh, retail and services. Uh, this land use does, uh, permit the activities that, or the land uses that are being requested as part of this request. Um, and you can see a breakdown in the table. Residential townhomes are permitted in this land use at 15 dwelling units per acre. The transit accommodation for the hotel at 40 units per acre and the commercial winery at .55 floor area ratio for a total of 1.05, which is the square footage of the site. The zoning also, uh, permits the activities requested, uh, residential townhomes, hotels, and retail wineries are all permitted uses by right and tourist facility. Uh, the table below shows the dimensional state, the table in the middle on the left shows the dimensional standards and they are all met. Uh, the number of stories max is five, uh, three to four is proposed. The building height is 50 foot max. And we're slightly under that at about 47 to 45 feet in height. A couple of notes on the bottom. I just want to read into the record. Uh, this is tourist facility. So in support of, uh, of that particular zoning district, there are new urbanism, uh, incentives built into that. Uh, which means that the front yard setback may be reduced to zero feet. If the building, including the porch area is established on the edge of the right of way with screen side parking or rear parking buildings, a and B, uh, as was shown in the site plan are near the edge of the causeway Boulevard with walkways leading from public sidewalks to gated garden areas and covered entries for the dwelling units and a walkway to the winery entrance. So it does provide that, that, that connection to the causeway, um, buildings, a and B are also designed with the 10 foot step backs that are required by code. Uh, and they actually placed that above the first floor versus the second floor to further reduce the building's overall impression on the public right of way. Uh, and that kind of segues into this slide. If you'll recall, the commission has some discussion about, you know, where are we crowding the sidewalk, uh, as part of this project. So this was a cross section that was provided by the applicant at the meeting in 2025 and 2024. Uh, and it shows, uh, some of those distances from, uh, both the vertical structure and the patio, the 42 inch patio wall. That'll kind of lead that vertical, that vertical front facade. And in that table to the upper left-hand side, you can see those distances and those are all distances from the sidewalk. So that patio wall would be a minimum of eight feet from the sidewalk. The nearest vertical architectural feature or the front facade would be more than 10 feet from the sidewalk. And the primary ground floor facade would be more than 13 feet from that, uh, that sidewalk. So, and that was all intentionally done so as not to crowd that sidewalk and give people the opportunity to connect to that site. Um, all other dimensional standards. I won't work through these. You've seen it before. Um, nothing's changed. The parking, uh, the, the, the, for instance, the, the transport, the, uh, parking, uh, uh, the transportation plan has been updated, but the numbers are exactly the same. Uh, the, uh, the public art and the parkland impact fee applications have been updated, but again, the numbers are the same. Uh, and they have met all the dimensional standards that are required for design standard approval on compatibility. Um, there are 11 properties that were analyzed around the subject property, uh, the existing building heights in the surrounding areas. As you can see from this slide, very, very, very, actually very significantly anywhere from one stories to nine stories. Uh, the average number of stories for the properties analyzed and with this particular compatibility analysis is about 3.4 stories. Uh, and the surrounding areas, as mentioned, uh, previously does include a mix of uses ranging from low to high density condominiums, townhomes, multifamily, as well as retail office, commercial recreation, and water dependent uses. Accordingly, uh, from a committee action standpoint, this did go back to the development review committee for a re-review on February 25th. Uh, the DRC comments on the items have been addressed and are addressed in the recommended conditions of approval. Uh, the architecture review committee, uh, heard this application on March 3, 2026, where the arc again approved the design recommended approval of the design of the project and the local planning agency heard it last month in April. Uh, and also unanimously recommended the approval, uh, and also unanimously recommended the approval to the city commission. So, as was this, the staff determination previously, it remains the same, uh, that staff finds that the design review, uh, is consistent with the applicable review criteria for approval subject to the following conditions. That the applicant is responsible for meeting the minimum criteria for the land development code and for acquiring all other jurisdictional permits and approvals. That construction plan shall be consistent with the approved design review plans and drawings, and that design review approval shall expire, uh, within 12 months from the date of city commission approval, unless the applicant obtains infrastructure review, approval, and vertical building permits. So, that, that's generally it. There's not, there's really no changes to that application from, from 2024, and I'm happy to answer any questions, and I know the applicant is here as well to answer any questions you might have. And, and that was going to be my question, is there going to be a presentation by the applicant, or just giving, or just taking questions? I'm, I'm sure they're, if you want them to, they're, they're, they're prepared to do either, Mary. They can either answer. Well, it's really up to them. I mean, because we can just ask, does anybody want a presentation from the applicant? I'm just saying, because we can ask questions, and if it gets there, but that way we can, say it again? Does anybody need a presentation by the applicant? I don't, I don't. I'm good. Okay. Okay, okay, so I, I think we're good, so as long as you're here for questions, but, um, so that being said, then I'll just go ahead, questions for staff, but if they roll into the applicant, we can do it at the same time. So, I'm going to start with, uh, Commissioner Gow. Thank you. Uh, George, it's probably for you, but I just, this is the same presentation. Was this a mixed condo project, townhome project, hotel project the last time? Yes, sir. Was it? Yeah, and in fact, that plat, you know, that they actually platted it exactly as it was approved, so you have that plat, absolutely, you know, showing that, that development as designed. And the hotel portion is Jay Annex, is that? Yeah, it's meant, it's meant to supplement the Jay Hotel to a certain extent. Is there any type of partnership, is there any connection to the Toronto Blue Jays? Are they working with them? Is it overflow from their hotel with players that'll stay there? That's my understanding. I think it's more on the administration side that'll stay there, but, um, I'll refer to you guys. Yeah, it was supposed to be the administration. Yes, the, the, the ideal was that it'd be for the administration. Can you give your name for the record? Tim Gilpin, representing SDG Architecture, and Jay Matt Pomes, who's the developer. So, yes, the idea of the annex was for the higher profile owners, management group, when they come, they would not be staying at the smaller hotel, they'd be staying here. Okay, just a little separation from the coaches and the players. I respect that. I get that. I get that. Okay, thank you. Um, uh, yeah, it seemed to me that, we had so much conversation about the sidewalk and the setbacks, uh, the last time, I won't beat up too much on it now, but a lot of it is just to refresh my memory. Uh, you said it was, uh, eight feet from the sidewalk to the... Yep, so it's a, so, so the, the, the knee wall, if you will, is a little bit more than eight feet from the edge of the sidewalk, from the leading edge of the sidewalk. And then that first vertical structure, so where you see that hash line. Right. Kind of going vertical, that's more than 10 feet. And then primary ground floor is a little farther back. Ah, okay, but, and the knee wall, I guess, or the patio wall? Yep. On the design, that is the eight feet? Yes. Right, okay. And I do see, uh, at least in what we're being shown now, a tree between the sidewalk and the knee wall. Do we have, we talked about what types of trees are going to go there? Are they shade trees? Are they cosmetic trees? Yeah, the landscape plan is, it's, I know it's one of the exhibits. I do not have that out in front of me. It's a separate exhibit, I know that. It's, hold on, I'll give it a... But there is a green space plan that's part of it, and I do not recall off the top of my head. Here, Jeff, it's, it's F, exhibit F. There's a shady lady tree. Let's see that one. If I remember correctly. Oh, it looks like, it looks like they call that the mayor tree, I think. No, no, no, sorry. That is so wrong. I do apologize for that. The landscape that is in our renderings, which I know George has that copy of, that is representative of the actual landscape plan. It should be exhibit F. And I know, and Commissioner, I know as part of the infrastructure review that obviously the city arborists will have another look at the plan. Okay, okay. And it looks like they're all what I would consider at least more cosmetic than shade trees. Okay. We beat this up a lot the last time, so I'm good with all the questions. So thank you, thank you, Mayor. Okay, Commissioner DeGuard, questions. Thank you, Mayor. The builder wanted an access on the causeway, and that was rejected. Is that correct? That's correct. Okay. Do we see any, and I know we have a traffic study on this, and it seems to be just above the diminishes threshold. That was when it was a restaurant, and now it's underneath that under the current application with the wine bar. So it's actually under the wine bar a better traffic analysis. Is that what I'm saying? So the rates are going to be reduced, but they'll be looking at impact fees like as if it was, because it's been vacant so long, there's not going to be as much of a credit as you would get. So, but yes, the trip rates are much more, are much reduced because you had a 7,000 square foot restaurant on that property prior. Okay. The only concern I have, and by the way, I did sit in on the meeting back two years ago when you were here before, and as I would remember, there was considerable discussion about traffic, traffic flow, and how that was going to be managed, and the tightness of the parking facility. But they satisfy all requirements, as I understand them? They did. All right. That's all I have, Mayor. Thank you. Okay. Vice Mayor, questions? Thank you, Mayor. Mayor, just, I'm just curious, I don't know if this is for staff or for the builder, the, how did, what was the rationale for missing the deadline for the permitting? I'm just curious. It was more of a logistics thing with partners and the development group as a whole. Okay. They just came things together with also the time it took to get the plan approved. They just missed the deadline for submittal. Okay. So this time around, we actually, plans are ready to go into the city within the next week or two. It's, it's in progress as we speak then. Plans are finished. Oh, they are. Fantastic. We're, we're ready to go as soon as we can now. Okay. All right. Thank you. That's all I've got. Okay. Commissioner Sandberg, any questions? Yeah, I just had a couple real quick. You know, I remember when the Arcadia, I remember that I was on the LPA. There were some questions about an easement. I want to say it was on the south side of this property. Is there, is there any issues with easements to the adjoining property? So the adjoining property, there is an access that's being used. That's technically on our property, but we, anything we're proposing, we're not touching that. We're staying completely out of that. Is it, was it being used as a driveway? Yes, it is. I remember this now. Well, that's been years ago. Okay. So there's no concern about that then? We're not, we're not touching it. We're completely outside of that easement. Is that yours or is that the neighbor's? Technically, it's on our property. Okay. Okay. But we didn't, from initial discussions, we first started developing the project with the city. It's kind of a grandfathered thing since they've been using it for so long. And we just kind of just left it and just designed around it. Okay. And that's acceptable? So there was one additional easement located as part of the plat. You'll see it to the left-hand side of the screen there, that little square box, and that's really for fire access and utility purposes. And we're out of that also. And my last question is just real simple. This is a good-looking building. The colors, the trim, will it look like that? Will it be the same color? Because we've had a couple of them now where people have came to me and said, that's not what it looked like from the beginning. It is, to my understanding, as the building designer and architect director, yes, that this 100% was. And the color scheme. Yes. Good, that's what I was looking for. Thank you. I can assure you it will look like. You probably know what I'm talking about. Okay, good, good. Oh, we're all there. Thank you. I call it the what we see is what we get thing. And I know exactly what you're talking about. And we heard about it. That's exactly what building you're talking about. Doug knows what we're talking about, too. So it's built into it this time, right? So, good. So I have a couple questions. So one is, can you put up the sidewalk, the right-of-way setback? So there's a, under circulation and mobility in the worksheet or whatever we call it, it's on page eight. It says, let's see, from a vehicle, bicycle and pedestrian mobility standpoint, five-foot-wide sidewalks will be connected to the public sidewalks along Causeway Boulevard and Gary Circle. So, what are we talking about? Are there gaps there or? Not along this stretch. I don't think there's a gap. There's a continuous sidewalk now that runs. And obviously, if it's 10-foot sidewalk, we're going to put 10-foot sidewalks matching if there's a gap. So, and the issue with that, Mayor, as you know, is that's located in county right-of-way. So their sidewalk is located within their particular right-of-way. So these guys, if they wanted to expand that, would have to work through the county to do that. Okay. I'm just trying to understand, are there any gaps along the Causeway? So it's just the gaps on Gary Circle? I believe there, and that would be the city, yes, on Gary Circle. Okay. I don't know if there's gaps on that or not. Yeah, I don't recall if that sidewalk's on one side out there or if it's... So is that just kind of a comment made to make a comment? Or did it mean something? Open zoning review, if it's not on the civil plans already, it would be a comment we'd have to address. Okay. Well, obviously, my point is, you know, we don't want a 5-foot sidewalk matching up to a 10-foot sidewalk. And I just want to make sure, you know, so we can make sure we've got that covered. Okay. So, George, from the time we said yes, there are no changes. This is what we said yes to. This is exactly what you said yes to. Okay, great. And I had my question, what we see is what we get right, and you've already answered that. Yeah, I don't think I have any other questions. So, that's good. Okay, we're going to go to the public input. Is there anyone in the public wishing to speak on this item at this time? Please come forward. Jeremy, come on down. Name and address for the record. Mayor, very quickly, I don't think he was sworn. Yeah, I need to be sworn in. I haven't been sworn in yet. Yeah, there you go. Do you swear to me you were about to give him this proceeding into the trade for whole trade and nothing but the trade? I do. Jeremy Reynolds, 973 Cedarwood Avenue. It's not the exact same thing you approved before because they had access to the causeway before. They don't now. So, a couple other things I want to draw your attention to. No, we actually knew that when we made the final approval. I'm sorry? We knew that when we did the second reading. Okay. So, a couple things I want to draw your attention to. In the February DRC meeting, the fire chief stated this was not a gated project. However, some of the architectural drawings as well as the application summary both explicitly show a fire department gate with Knox box and promises gated amenities in a coastal high hazard area. That should, you know, make sure we nail that down. The citizen participation report dated March 3rd, 2026, the project has only one entrance and exits on the Gary Circle. Pinellas County denied them the, you know, access to the causeway. Now, under our comprehensive plan, policy 2.9.1, a project must be compatible with the, quote, peaceful use and enjoyment, end quote, of the neighborhood. You cannot mitigate a commercial winery, patrons, and hotel traffic out of a residential cul-de-sac. That's a forced functional incompatibility that did not exist until the primary arterial access was denied. The other thing I want to remind you of is just because they got approval then doesn't mean they automatically get approval now. Right. So, each application must be examined on its own merits. Let's see. There was one other thing. The, I think they're okay, but double check on the parking requirements for wine bar versus cafe. They said in the March ARC meeting that it was, it, what witnesses, they called it a cafe, which wouldn't necessarily have the same parking requirements as retail, would have the same requirements as a parking requirements as a restaurant. Now, I don't, I don't know. I'm not the expert, but make sure they care for that. Finally, the ARC vice chair noted on March 3rd that the dumpster location placed in the northwest corner of the convenience of solid waste, that the placement of the dumpster and the convenience of solid waste destroys the entry corridor for our gateway district. The project prioritizes dumpster access and developer density over safety and character of the neighborhood. Until the developer can reconcile the, you know, those issues, we really shouldn't approve the application. And I wish we would at least send it back to have those things cared for. Thank you. Thank you, Jeremy. Okay. Anyone else in the audience? Well, we'll answer all questions afterwards. Anyone else in the audience? Come on forward. Name and address for the record. How are you doing? Hi. How are you tonight? I don't believe she's been sworn in. Have you been sworn in? No. Okay. We need to do that. Is there anyone else out there that's going to speak that needs to be sworn in? Because we can do it all at once. Anyone else? Okay. Go ahead and swear in. Yes. I do. First of all, I'm a real estate broker. And name and address for the record. Yeah. So that's it. This project that you're putting on, I've heard rumors. And, you know, I'm... We need name and address. Cheryl Stimack, 2651 Michael Place. Gotcha. Thank you. Macedonia Connoisse. I'm on the fourth level closest to the Hampton Inn. So I get the benefit of all that light at the top that's taken away my privacy from my patio. And I get all the lights that originally they had planned to put all this landscaping up that never happened. It's very uncomfortable. And I would say that at the time that this building was being planned, it was right about the same time where I was. In my lack of knowledge of what was going to happen to the Hampton Inn, I think that your neighbors around there probably are clueless what's going on. So the only defense they have is all of you. You know, if you let this building go forth, will you allow traffic to go out on Gary Circle? I mean, come on, who have you been out on the causeway on Friday, 5 o'clock, 6 o'clock? And on the weekends, it's terrible. The traffic is just way too much. Please, whatever you decide to do, take into consideration the quality of a life for the existing people that are there. Because I really feel like that did not happen when the Hampton Inn was put up. So please do that. Thank you very much. Thank you. Appreciate your interest and concern for the neighbors. Appreciate it. Thank you. Yeah. Okay. All right. Does anyone else in the audience wish to come forward and speak on this issue? Okay. Seeing no one, I will close the public hearing. And let's kind of highlight a few of those things that came up, George. I think you were taking notes. I was. If you missed something, I'll chime in. I can probably help with several of these. So from a sidewalk gap perspective, as you recall, there was considerable discussion on that particular aspect back in 2024. Hence, that exhibit that was provided to show that relationship of that sidewalk to the front facade. On the, from an access standpoint, you did, you approved the plan as shown tonight. You did not approve the plan with an access to the causeway that that was never going to be permitted by Pinellas County. From a parking standpoint, you have a, they've actually provided a 36 plate space surplus. That's fairly significant. It's more than double what is required for the site. So we believe that parking analysis is, is, is accurate on based on the use that was requested. And we believe there's a surplus there. Just lastly, on the traffic impact analysis piece of it, the, the new, the new peak trips that would be generated are 29. So that's throughout the, that's peak. And you're looking at about 51 because product generates less than, I'm sorry. So 29 peak hour trips are estimated because it generates less than 51 peak hour trips. There's, there's really, uh, nothing in our ordinance that calls for anything more than what you've seen in form of traffic impact analysis. So it's, it is what we would consider de minimis from a traffic standpoint. And I think the dumpster came up and I know we talked a lot about that at, uh, past one. So can you talk about that one or either way? Yeah. The applicant wants to help. There, it is, it is completely surrounded and closed with an architectural, uh, I believe all, not only just a surround, but also, uh, yes, it will be a cement cap and it's going to have a cement closure and a locked fence. So the only residents or, um, occupants of the commercial aspects will have access to it. That's to keep the transients out or also animals and that kind of thing. It's, uh, let me just ask this. So it, it does have a top over it. It's enclosed because that was, I know the big thing they'd be looking over and looking into a trash. Yeah, it is, um, on our premier location. Right. However, through multiple meetings with, uh, public works and, um, the city, because we actually, we originally proposed a dumpster in two other locations before we ended up here. And this is the only location we were actually permitted by the public works to put a dumpster. Okay. Do you have a question about dumpster? Just real quick. So the dumpster will be shared by the, the term winery. Is it a wine bar or is it where my wine is manufactured? No, it's going to be more like a wine tasting. Okay. So, um, I don't know if you've been to John's past, but they have those. We used to have one in downtown. They didn't have been closed recently. It's more of like a wine shop. You're going to go in, you know, the opportunity, if you want to sample a couple little cups of wine, and then you'll buy a bottle and you'll leave. It's not a bar. It's not meant to have entertainment. You're not going to have loud noises. Okay. Go in, buy a bottle of wine, leave. Okay. And the dumpster will be shared by the unit owners? Correct. The vacation rental, as well as the winery? Yeah. One dumpster? Okay. Well, it's two dumpsters. We have to have two for the, whatever the, I can't think of the correct term, but the city works guy told me. But yes, we need a two dumpster. Solid waste. Yeah. Okay. Okay. That's good. Thank you, ma'am. Cool. Okay. And I think the other thing, we're good. Okay. Thank you very much. I would just like to add that if we do get approval today, if the commissioner would consider waiving the second hearing. Okay. Thank you. And that was in the agenda, so appreciate it. Thank you. So I think the other question is to, I'm forgetting your first name. What is, Cheryl? So she brought up the notices to the neighbors, so they know what's happening, that kind of thing. Do you want to reiterate how that works? So we do require that the applicant for actually any design review now, it used to be whether or not you had incompatible uses you could do, we would ask the developer to go out and meet with the community. So they have done that. They did that during the initial approval, and they, as was mentioned by, I think, Jeremy, they also did the citizen participation plan on April 20th, 2026. That should be in your backup. Yes. You need to take a look at that. But there wasn't much to read that came out of that. Certainly our noise ordinance would come into play if there's any issue from that perspective. But they were required to sit with the neighboring community. Yeah, and I'd add to that that I attend most of the Dunedin Beach Civic Association meetings on one Saturday a month, and they're held at the condo that's directly across from where that exit point will be. And the applicant's been very responsive to some of what they want. And actually, I think, if anything, they were almost disappointed when it didn't move forward because they want something there because it's just dirt, and it's been dirt for a long time. But I appreciate your concern. That's great. Yeah. I appreciate your comments. Thank you. Okay. So let's see. We're going to go to – we're going to close the public hearing, and I'm going to ask for a motion. So moved. Second. Go to commission comments before we have a roll call vote. So – and we'll take up the issue of whether we're waiving, you know, after that. Would that be the best way to do it, Jen? Yeah. And then we'll vote on whether we're going to waive or not. Okay. So commission comments starting with the maker of the motion, Commissioner Dugard. Thank you, Mayor. After looking at this project and having two years of study, I guess we could say, and I certainly understand the concerns of a compressed community, but that's what we are. We're a compressed community, and we're going to be tight in order to build. We're going to have to be close to our neighbors and respectful of that. This looks like a constructive project. I think it fits what we need in that particular area. It certainly beats a blank lot, and I think that the builder has shown interest in picking this up as soon as possible. That would be my only concern is that we find another delay. Other than that, I am wholly supportive. Okay. And seconder of the motion, Commissioner Sandbergen. You know, it's been a long time coming out there. I remember going to Louisiana Seafood Company. I think it was Hurricane – you know, you and I have been around a long time. It was either Francis or Jean that pretty much turned that area of Dunedin upside down. You know, and the comments that I've received from people out on the causeway is they are anxious to see it. And I understand – you know, I recognize your address. I know where you live. And the support and the comments that we received – I mean, that I've received directly and through e-mails, these people are finally satisfied and know that there's something coming moving forward. So I appreciate your input. But I will be in support of this, though. Thank you. Vice Mayor, final comments? Thank you, Mayor. Just in terms of the last time we saw this and this time, you know, obviously two years has gone by. And I was concerned. That was my only concern because – so I went back, took a look at the video from our original vote, and looked – and also the DRC and ARC discussions earlier this year. And, you know, I'm satisfied that, you know, they're really – everything is as it was we discussed two years ago. So, you know, and I also will echo, you know, the comments of my colleague, Commissioner Sandberg. And, you know, I just – you know, there will be a little bit of inconvenience. But I think, you know, I think from my perspective that it will be – you know, it will be a asset to that area because right now there's just that dirt lot. And so, anyway, I am in favor of this. And thank you. Commissioner Gall, final comments? Thank you, Mayor. Yeah, I'm in favor of this as well. We said yes two years ago. Little to no change in what we've been seeing tonight. I'm happy that there's two bike racks. Hopefully you'll consider rental bikes for those in the hotel. Won't ask a question. That's under comments. So do with it what you'd like, please. We're good. I think the residents out there, although the comments about behind Hinton Inn, I hear you. And that is very, very tight. You are. But that's – unfortunately, that's a project authority. And none of us were part of that, just so you know. So that is – when we – yeah. So I understand why you're here tonight. But thank you. So I'm good, Mayor. Yeah, no, I think it fits. You know, that was my biggest question. Has it changed at all? But I went through everything again. Feel comfortable with it. And I know, like – and I appreciate – I think it's great that you came forward to speak on behalf of someone else because of what you've experienced. And I – but I feel comfortable with it just because I do know that area. I have talked to them. And, again, my experience with the residents has been disappointment that they didn't move forward the first time because they're tired of the dirt and, you know, all the things that that brings. So – and, of course, the traffic is way better than if a restaurant goes back in there. Way better. So – okay. So, anyway, I'm totally in favor. So we need a roll call vote. Commissioner Gow. Aye. Vice Mayor Walker. Aye. Commissioner Sandbergen. Aye. Commissioner Dugard. Aye. And Mayor Franey. Aye. And the motion passes unanimously. Okay. Now I would like to go to the request for a waiver of second reading on June 4th. Would anyone like to make a motion? So moved. Is there a second? Second. Okay. And I'm going to go ahead and turn to Commissioner Dugard to – as a maker of the motion to make some comments. You've gone through this twice already. I hardly would think that we need to see it a third time. And I understand your reasons for wanting to get started, but I'm also sensitive to the reasons the community wants it to get started. And so that is what drove me to make this motion. And I had several calls on this particular issue. They are very eager to see the dirt being moved. Thank you, Mayor. Okay. And comments on the seconder of the motion, Vice Mayor? Yeah. Thanks, Mayor. Yeah. So I, you know, I think we've discussed this thoroughly. And, you know, I think we all pretty much got the same phone calls on this leading to this meeting. And I, my sense has been that the residents of that area are in favor of this. And subsequently, I don't think – I think it makes sense that we waive that second hearing. Thank you, Mayor. Commissioner Sandberg? Yeah. I also would be in favor of waiving it. Let's keep it going. It's been all these years. Let's get it done. Okay. Commissioner Gow? Thank you. Yeah. I find it interesting that the clock ran out on the first time. So the second time, let's waive the second meeting. So hopefully that is a good indication that if we vote yes on this, that there will be shovels in the ground as quickly as possible. Because it would be quite interesting if time ran out the second time. But, yeah, I'm in favor of this. Yeah. I'm also in favor. I think we've seen this a lot. We have all – we've heard from some of the residents over there that are anxious, were disappointed. And now anxious for this to get moving. And so I'm also in favor. I would like to, for this part of it, waiver of second reading. I'd like to ask if anyone in the audience wishes to come forward and speak on this issue. Okay. Seeing no one, I'll close public input. And let's do a roll call vote. I'm so sorry. Hold on there, Mayor. And the maker of the motion was Commissioner Dugard, and the seconder was Vice Mayor. You got it. Commissioner Sam Bergen? Aye. Commissioner Gow? Aye. Vice Mayor Walker? Aye. Commissioner Dugard? Aye. And Mayor Franey? Aye. And the waiver passes unanimously. So, okay. Move some dirt. When will we expect? When will we expect moving of dirt? You have to come to the mic, though, to set. So – No pressure. Well, first up was we got to get the plans into the building department for approval. Their infrastructure approval – permits in. That's being worked on. So vertical building permits is next. I think that's probably going to happen within the next month, I would guess. Yeah, we'll have the vertical building permits to you in the next week to two weeks. By September, then? Hopefully. Okay. Very good. Thank you. Thank you very much. Okay. We're going to move to the proposed agenda for the May 21st, 2026 commission meeting. Michelle, do you have anything? Mayor, only one consent item has moved. Consent item 2C has moved to June 4th. 2C. Okay. Anyone else have something? I have something to add. Anybody else? Okay. So I was just approached by Rob Cozen with the VFW, and they're going to be having a memorial event on Memorial Day. And they were asking for a proclamation. And obviously, it would need to be May 21st. We already have four, but I think that's really important that we do that. And I would like it to be the first one. So we start kickoff with that one. Is everybody okay with that? Okay. Okay. So any other changes or anything? Deletions or whatever? Okay. So can I have a motion with the addition of a Memorial Day proclamation? So moved. Second. Okay. All in favor? Aye. Aye. Any opposed? Motion passed unanimously. Okay. We'll go to informational items, commission discussion, and comments. I'll start with Commissioner Gao. Thank you, Mayor. Yeah. Only one thing to report. I had the pleasure of Dunning High School, their musical theater department, put on Bye Bye Bernie. And they just did an absolutely fabulous job. So just kudos to Carolyn Mulholland, who's the director, and the students were just amazing. So that's it, Mayor. Thank you. Okay. Commissioner DeGuard. It was a wonderful event yesterday at the Hale Center for the Senior Hall of Fame. I've got to tell you, I go into those kind of meetings with a little bit of trepidation, particularly when the speaker really asked you to participate. And I worry about that. Not that the speaker's not doing very well, but that was one of the most audience participation things I've been at in Dunedin in a long time. And they hit it over the fence. And it was just a lot of fun. I think the mayor might have embarrassed. No. We all had a great time. And kudos go to the committee and all that worked on that and the city for hosting it. That's all I have. Vice Mayor. Thank you, Mayor. So I'm on the PSTA Legislative Committee and just wanted to impart. And during that particular committee meeting, we get reports from their federal lobbyist and from their state lobbyist. And with a special session coming up, specifically looking at the property tax issue, he seemed to be very confident that what the Senate would be bringing forward as a companion bill would be possibly another $50,000 increase in the homestead exemption. You know, but I thought I would share that, and I don't know if we're hearing the same thing from Southern Group. But anyway, it may be getting closer to, yeah. So that's all I've got. Well, that's a little depressing because even $50,000 hurts us because we're already going to have to make cuts. So even though we want to give relief, I'd like it to be insurance, though. So anyway, Commissioner Sandberg? I had a nice meeting with the Blue Jays last week. Got more of their drill down on the year-end spring training. The attendance was down, but I understand the revenue was up. So I guess I can kind of, you know, go back and forth on that one. Yeah, did we eat and drink more? Well, I had pretty good attendance this year. And the other thing I want to say is how proud I am of the entire community and also the city staff for the participation in the Honk Hustle. That race means a lot to me. In fact, when we were watching the video of Chris, you notice on the back of his shirt, that's when my company used to sponsor it. And, you know, if we went by the numbers on the bibs, it looks like we were approaching maybe 700 runners. That's a lot of people. That's a lot. And I've got to say, there are some incredible runners that work for the city of Dunedin. And one of them is sitting right up here with her red top on. And, you know, that was... Really? And good, yeah. But I was really proud of the entire community. You know, we were there. We were, you know, we were interacting with them. And it meant a lot. It meant a lot to the Hoban family. And I just want to say thank you to everyone that worked so hard to put that on. So when you ran it, did you put my mayor name tag on? Since a lot of times people think we're each other. Is that a yes or no? I forgot it at home. I'm sorry. That would have really made me look good. Yeah, and again, I hated to miss that. But I was out of town for my birthday and was with a four-and-a-half-year-old. So anyway, I had a couple things I just want to add on to the Senior Hall of Fame. And again, you know, we stand on the shoulders of a lot of people that have made this community special. It's no one commission. It's no one person. And quite honestly, it's just people that have passion and contribute. And it's so important for us to make that a big deal. And it was a really big deal. And we'll make it a big deal when the two winners come. So next week at the Ford Pinellas, you know, the MPO merger will be talked about again. I think there was a little bit of movement on the Hillsborough side to take a seat away, which I thought was good until I understood that that means Tampa, City of Tampa has, they want the City of Tampa to lose a seat. So I don't know. They're continuing to make the sausage of that at the higher level. So we'll be talking about it again at Ford Pinellas as far as how the eight people that from our county that potentially would be on it, that's still a work in progress. I've had talks with Witt and continuing to share our views that it's not all about Dunedin now. I mean, it's only maximum of 25 on the whole thing. But at the same time, we need to make sure that North County is represented well enough. So, and, you know, he's assured me that we're not going to make a decision yet next week. We'll continue to discuss it. So I think it will be more discussed during that meeting, and we'll go from there. So I'll keep you up on that. Also, one of the things that's coming up is going to be some changes on 580 because of the corridor study. And I think probably best for me just to send some of those to you. There's several of our intersections I can kind of, like, achieve away, pedestrian yield signs and striping. And these are the priority one, the quick ones. Overcash drive, pedestrian yield signs at intersection. Pine Hood drive, pedestrian yield signs at intersection. Let's see. I think Priority 2's got New York Ave and Patricia. There's a mid-block crossing plan for that. And between Keene and Achieva is a mid-block crossing. So, but I'll send that to you. But some good things that I think will help it. You know, still a lot more visioning, I think, to be done on 580. It could be so much in terms of an enterprise corridor. And I think we just need to keep pushing for that. So, we'll talk more about that. Let's see if I have anything else. Oh, yeah, the only thing I was going to bring up was July 9th is the Florida Council of Mayors. It's happening across the state. July 9th is a commission meeting night. So, it's like we're there July 9th and 10th. They also invite the vice mayor, which I've talked to vice mayor, and he'd also like to attend if it works. But I wanted to see how that would work with our meeting. I mean, if we can plan around it, we'll see. You know, but we've got our rooms booked for now. And I wanted to kind of see if we could, you know, obviously, potentially just be a lighter meeting. Okay, if I may, Mayor, I'll talk to staff about it, what they have upcoming, and I can report back at the next meeting. For now, we just reserve rooms. But if it doesn't work, we'll just, you know, but it'd be good, you know. Okay, very good. It's always very valuable. So, you know, my only other thing when it comes to the legislature, I do have breakfast tomorrow morning with Representative Beerfield. And the message I've been sharing is, obviously, yes, we don't want the extreme case of reduction of, you know, no homestead or property tax just because it will gut local government. But I also said, at least for Dunedin, we want, obviously, affordability relief for our citizens. But even $50,000 in that regard, you know, we're already going to, by holding the line that we have for the tax rate for 10 years, you know, we all know we're going to be doing some cuts this year. So, so any level. And, I mean, and I appreciate the fact that we'll take what we get, right, because we, you know, it is what it is. And that will be our job just to educate, you know, so. Yeah, I wouldn't. Yeah, no, those are great comments. I would add to that that we, whatever, you know, and again, this is just a data point. But, you know, the drum continues to need to be beaten because I don't know how we talk about a property tax elimination without talking about what the solution is going to be for. Right. I don't know how we do that. And that, I guess that's probably, and I'm, you know, I think you probably all have the same level of frustration that I have with that because I think it's irresponsible to be talking about a property tax reduction without having a solution or a proposed solution. So, anyway, no, I, the drum, we need to keep beating that drum. Well, and the other point I think is that, because I've, I've talked with them about this as well, that, I mean, creating equity within the system. Because there's, you know, there's people that have lows and there's people that have way highs. And it's all because there's been a lot of things done over the years to create those inequities. And, and so that's part of what I think what, what really is frustrating to homeowners. And some of those are just, you know, a lot of exemptions. And I know it's probably been 15 years now since a Republican and a Democratic senator went around the state and tried to say, look at this book of exemptions that we've got. We need to kind of relook at them, but they got nowhere, even though there's probably a lot of those that could drop off now and, and it would help the situation. So, anyway, I mean, we'll, we'll continue to, to, uh, I think, talk to our legislatures and hope for the best, but, um, and obviously fight for our citizens. So, um, every, their affordability, obviously a genuine issue. So, um, uh, that's all I have. So I will go to city clerk update. Nothing new to report, mayor. Thank you. City manager update. Uh, thank you, mayor, vice mayor and commissioners. So, um, uh, on the subject of the budget, uh, we have completed Jorge and I with finance, the line by line review of every department in every division within every department. So the, the, the departments and divisions did a great job of, of tightening their belts as far as operational goes in terms of what it is that they can control. Uh, and we'll be able to present to you some, some, some decreases in operational, um, uh, uh, costs in some departments and others, not so much. They're so small. They have no wiggle room whatsoever. So, uh, we are, um, on, on, uh, schedule right now to present end of May to the board of finance. And then, um, we have a, our first budget workshop meeting on July, uh, 21st. We're keeping a very close eye on what's happening, obviously in session. Uh, it's a topic of continual conversation amongst staff, as you can imagine. And we are taking the property tax forms on the road. Um, our first presentation is going to be at, uh, rotary the afternoon or the lunch club. Um, I don't know how that happened. Yeah, yeah, I guess there's something like that, but no, but we are, we are, um, right now, I'm working with Superness to take the presentation that was an hour long and, and decrease that to about 20 minutes. And then, uh, whomever wants to come speak, we will. And, um, I actually, I think that I'd love to convene, um, all of the, uh, graduates of Citizens Academy together. And they are ambassadors in the community and do the presentation, that 20 minute presentation of them. And then start visiting some boards and committees as well to get that word out. So, um, obviously we'll know more after this, the, you know, the property tax session, uh, but we are definitely keeping a really close eye on it. And, and we're brainstorming whatever we can as staff to address whatever issue is, is, is, uh, is before us when it's time to adopt the budget. But, you know, the point is though that, and a lot of people don't know this or don't understand it, that we will, no matter what, adopt a balanced budget. But, because we must, we're, by state law, we cannot, we cannot adopt any other budget than, than a, we cannot adopt a deficit. So, um, uh, and, and, you know, that's really what, what, what, where the hard work is involved here. How deep the cuts are, we'll have to, have to decide after the, the budget, the property tax session in Tallahassee. But we're working on it, um, continually, as I know, you know. Um, also attached to City Matters Update, we have some grant applications. So, as you know, we've been very successful since we, uh, our grant writer came on board. I think we're up around $7 million altogether. Um, and, uh, and, and so we promised you that we would attach the City Matters Update, uh, grant applications so you can see what we're working on. So, thank you, Mayor. And, uh, City Attorney Update. No update. Nothing? Nothing. Well, that's good, right? Yeah. That's good news. Okay. It's really good news. Okay, if there is nothing else good for the order, I think we're going to adjourn this meeting. Alrighty. Alrighty.