Regular Council Meeting

Finance Director requested approval to pay the city's portion of the Bear Creek Bridge replacement project, which was completed in 2024 but was not previously billed. The council approved the payment and corresponding budget amendment.

Where: Bear Creek

Councilwoman Haffner raised the placement of the beach traffic sign for the upcoming season. The City Manager noted that a FDOT permit is required if placed on US 331, while placement on Business 331 requires only a county permit. Council consensus favored placement on US 331, and Councilwoman Brannon suggested considering two signs—one on US 331 and one on Business 331—to ensure visibility. No formal vote was recorded for this discussion item.

Where: US 331; Business 331

City Manager requested council authorization to pursue a USDA loan for infrastructure improvements at the Bulldog Road wastewater treatment plant. The loan would offer a 4.5% interest rate with a 40-year term and could accelerate the project from a 5-year timeline to approximately 2 years if bidding occurs this summer. The council authorized the city manager to prepare and have the mayor execute appropriate loan documents.

Where: Bulldog Road

Engineering presented a change order to expand the sewer utilities into the Lagrange Road area using remaining ARPA funds previously approved by the county in December. The work includes only pipe installation without service connections and is scheduled for completion by October 1, 2026.

• $1,154,687.71 · Change order cost for Lagrange Road sewer extension pipe installation

Where: Lagrange Road

The Wastewater Supervisor requested approval for FOG (Fats, Oils, and Grease) training, certification, and accommodations for three sewer employees. The council approved the training and lodging costs.

• $1,050.00 · FOG training and certification cost for 3 sewer employees
• $1,881.00 · Lodging for 3 people for 3 nights

Parks Director updated council on the community pool opening date of May 23rd and pool operating hours. The council approved the opening date and schedule, which will be published on the website and Facebook.

Councilman Farris presented information about a special-needs playground from Freeport Elementary School (costing approximately $150,000) and a Miracle League Baseball Field designed for children of all abilities, similar to facilities in Niceville and Bay County. The council voted to pursue incorporating both elements into the park planned for the Carr property, with the Planning Director committing to prioritize these additions.

• $150,000 · Approximate cost of the special-needs playground at Freeport Elementary School (reference example)

Where: Carr property

Council approved bills and meeting minutes from March 26, 2026, on the consent agenda.

Councilwoman Hurst announced a lighting ceremony scheduled for April 23rd at the Veterans Memorial Park to take place immediately following the evening city council meeting at approximately 7:15 PM. The public, surrounding local governments, military, and first responders are invited to attend the celebration. The council voted to approve the date and time.

Where: Veterans Memorial Park