Palm Bay City Council Meeting - Major Decisions for Growth and Leadership
Key Topics: Development Plans, Event Sponsorships, and Leadership Changes on December 5th
Palm Bay, FL – The Palm Bay City Council is set to convene for its Regular Council Meeting on December 5, 2024, at 6:00 PM in the Council Chambers. The agenda is packed with important items for discussion, ranging from local event sponsorships to new residential developments, and even potential leadership changes. Here are the key points residents should be aware of:
Consent Agenda Overview
The consent agenda includes routine items that will be approved without separate discussion unless a council member requests otherwise. Key items include:
City Council Flag Program nominee: Consideration of Kenneth Brian Johnson.
Mobile Communication Services Purchase: Approval of a cooperative purchase for city-wide mobile communication services.
Interlocal Agreement with Town of Malabar: Extension of potable water infrastructure funded by the American Rescue Plan Act ($329,111).
Commercial Property Enhancement Grants: Two grants for Aarya Sunshine Brevard LLC for property improvements on Palm Bay Road NE ($5,115 and $7,528).
Travel and Training: Approval for specified city employees in the Police Department.
The total amount of expenditures from the consent agenda is $341,754.
Lotis Palm Bay Development
One of the first action items on the agenda will be a public hearing regarding Ordinance 2024-54, which proposes a change in the land use designation for 353.47 acres near Micco Road, east of Interstate 95. The land, currently designated as Micco Park Village, could be changed to Parkway Flex Use, a mixed-use designation aimed at fostering residential and commercial development. The development, known as Lotis Palm Bay, aims to create a walkable community featuring a blend of single-family homes, townhomes, and commercial spaces. The development is expected to provide community benefits such as reduced traffic congestion, local amenities, and an improved quality of life for residents. The property is located north of Micco Road, just east of Interstate 95.
Chaparral Planned Unit Development (PUD) Expansion
The council will then consider the preliminary subdivision plan approval for Chaparral P.U.D. Phases 4B and 5A-B, which proposes 521 new residential lots across 160.51 acres south of Malabar Road SW and west of Searle Avenue. The planned community is looking to address the city's growing housing needs while ensuring that infrastructure can handle the expansion. A new traffic light at Malabar Road and Wisteria Drive was installed as part of the previous phase of the development, aimed at alleviating traffic congestion and improving safety at this busy intersection. Traffic studies are underway to determine additional solutions for congestion, and technical reviews indicate that the project meets city standards.
Reserve at Country Club Lakes Estates
The council will consider the preliminary subdivision plan and final plat approval for Reserve at Country Club Lakes Estates. This residential project consists of 199 single-family lots located at the terminus of Country Club Drive, west of Port Malabar Boulevard, and east of Riviera Drive. Originally part of the former Port Malabar Country Club Golf Course, this is the fifth and final phase of the project, requiring two actions by the City Council in order to proceed. Completing this phase is significant as it will bring the overall development plan to fruition, providing a variety of housing options and contributing to the growth of the Palm Bay community.
Indian Kite Festival Co-Sponsorship Request
Following the development items, the council will consider the Third Annual Palm Bay Indian Kite Festival hosted by the Indian Association of the Space Coast, Inc. The organization is requesting co-sponsorship for the event, which is set for January 26, 2025, at Fred Poppe Regional Park. The estimated cost to the city is $3,831.72, which includes in-kind wages and various fee waivers such as police presence and stage rental. The festival aims to celebrate multiculturalism, foster community engagement, and promote Palm Bay as a diverse and welcoming city.
Potential Appointment of Interim City Manager
The agenda might also be revised to include the appointment of Scott Morgan as Interim City Manager. Morgan, who has previously served as the city manager of West Melbourne, is noted for his experience in managing commercial growth and infrastructure projects. During his tenure in West Melbourne, Morgan successfully oversaw major infrastructure initiatives, including road expansions and water treatment improvements, which significantly contributed to the city's growth. His proven track record of fostering economic development while maintaining fiscal discipline makes him an ideal candidate to serve as the interim city manager for Palm Bay. This decision comes after a recent workshop where he emerged as the leading candidate to fill the role following the termination of the previous city manager. Morgan has expressed his willingness to assist in the hiring of a permanent city manager, focusing on stability during the transition. If the meeting on December 2nd concludes favorably, Morgan's appointment will be officially added to the agenda for approval on December 5th.
Public Involvement Encouraged
Residents are encouraged to attend the council meeting or follow the live stream, which can be accessed via the city's official website or through their social media channels. Public comments are welcome on non-agenda issues, allowing citizens three minutes each to voice their concerns or provide input.
For more information on these topics and ongoing updates about Palm Bay's local governance, visit The Palm Bayer. Stay informed about upcoming meetings, recent decisions, and in-depth community news to help you stay engaged and involved in shaping our city.
I oppose spending $3,831.72 for virtue signaling to "celebrate multiculturalism, foster community engagement, and promote Palm Bay as a diverse and welcoming city."