Regular Council Meeting

Deputy Planning Director Graves presented a rezoning request for the property at 31 Azalea Drive, located just south of Freeport Elementary School at the north corner of Azalea and Business 331, to change the zoning from medium-density residential to residential commercial to allow an office complex similar to one across the street. The council approved first reading and authorized the ordinance to be advertised for second reading and adoption.

Where: 31 Azalea Drive; Property Reference Number 10-1S-19-23000-022-0010

Part of project: 31 Azalea Drive Rezoning

Wastewater Supervisor Johnson requested approval to purchase a root rake attachment for the skid steer tractor to remove debris from the RIB site (former dumping ground) that was breaking the tiller. The debris removal is necessary because repairs to the tiller cost $1,000 each and one external contractor removal cost $11,000. The council approved the purchase.

• $8,379.59 · Cost of root rake for skid steer tractor
• $1,000.00 · Cost of each tiller repair
• $11,000.00 · Cost of one external contractor removal service

Where: RIB site

Planning Director Hughes-Neel introduced a new ordinance adding language to regulate activities in parks conducted for financial gain or non-profit fundraisers. Activities require prior permission from the Parks Director and payment of appropriate fees; non-profit fundraisers require a permit. The council approved first reading and authorized the ordinance to be advertised for second reading and adoption.

Planning Director Hughes-Neel requested approval to purchase a blue songbird climbing sculpture by Creative Climbables for the Children's Playground behind City Hall, to be placed in a white sand area near the parking lot. The sculpture is large enough for children to sit inside and climb on. The council approved the purchase of the poly wood-based climbable and an annual maintenance service contract.

• $10,400.00 · Cost of songbird sculpture (poly wood-based climbable)
• $300.00 · Annual maintenance service contract per year

Where: Children's Playground behind City Hall

Parks Director Bartlett raised concerns about e-bikes in parks, particularly at Hammock Bay. The council discussed Florida law and regulations. City Attorney Adkinson explained that Florida law does not allow e-bikes to be treated differently than other bicycles and that they have the same rights to primary roadways as vehicles. The Attorney noted that the county is developing an ordinance and suggested coordination with the Hammock Bay Owners Association. Attorney Adkinson stated he will bring the County Ordinance to the second May meeting for city consideration, with potential approaches including designated bike lanes and speed restrictions.

Where: Hammock Bay

The council approved the consent agenda, which included bills for payment, approval of the April 14, 2026 meeting minutes, and expenditure and revenue reports through March 2026. Passed on unanimous roll call vote (5-0).