May 18, 2026 Regular City Council Meeting Packet

May 18, 2026, Regular City Council Meeting · 2026-05-18 · agenda_packet

The Destin City Council meeting on May 18, 2026, included several agenda items. Key actions involved: approving the first reading of Ordinance 26-06-LC (renumbering Land Development Code articles and renaming one to 'Resource Conservation, Protection, Resiliency, and Sustainability'), which was later tabled; approving the second reading of Ordinance 25-24-LC (amending administration and public participation articles of the Land Development Code), with an amendment for single-family homes; and adopting Resolution 26-13 supporting the protection of shorebird habitat at Norriego Point. The council also directed staff to finalize an MOU for the Destin Parks Foundation's fundraising for the July 4th celebration and to bring back a revised parking fee structure for the Terra Cotta parking lot. Public comments included concerns about drainage, drone use for displays, on-street parking restrictions, and towing fees. [case Resolution 26-09] The Destin City Council meeting on May 18, 2026, included a presentation of Resolution 26-09 recognizing Rey Bailey for 26 years of service and dedication to the City of Destin, with his retirement extended best wishes. [case Proclamation] The Destin City Council meeting on May 18, 2026, included a proclamation recognizing Kaylynn Hayles as Miss Destin 2026. She will serve as an ambassador at city functions and promote the fishing heritage and rodeo. [case Proclamation] The Destin City Council meeting on May 18, 2026, included a proclamation declaring May 16-22, 2026, as National Safe Boating Week, supporting the goals of the Safe Boating Campaign to promote safe boating practices. [Buck Destin Park; case ITEM # 2026-815] The Destin City Council meeting on May 18, 2026, included a presentation by Arantza Ramos regarding her Arbor Day reading from the ceremony held at Buck Destin Park on April 24, 2026. [City streets; case ITEM # 2026-808] The Destin City Council meeting on May 18, 2026, considered a Consent Agenda item approving the Corpus Christi Catholic Church's request for their 2nd Annual Eucharistic Procession on Saturday, June 6th, from 6-7 PM, utilizing city streets with assistance from the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office Posse for traffic control. [Norriego Point] The Destin City Council meeting on May 4, 2026, included a presentation by John Stephens of the Destin Parks Foundation regarding a proposal to assist the City with fundraising for the America 250 July 4th celebration. The Foundation sought to raise up to $10,000, including $5,000 for an enhanced fireworks finale and $5,000 for a '250' display at Norriego Point. The Council directed staff and the City Attorney to finalize an MOU. The Destin City Council meeting on May 4, 2026, discussed the Comprehensive Plan Evaluation and Appraisal Review (EAR). Community Development Director Tina Deater reported that the City lacks in-house staff capacity for a full rewrite, recommending Inspire, a planning consultant, to assist. The Council directed staff to coordinate with Inspire and refine the proposal. The Destin City Council meeting on May 4, 2026, discussed tow truck fees. Staff compared Destin's fees with neighboring jurisdictions. The Council adopted an updated towing fee schedule at the same rates as Okaloosa County and directed the City Attorney to draft a Resolution. Councilmember Braden dissented. [Holiday Isle, adjacent to Norriego Point Park; case Resolution 2026-05] The Destin City Council meeting on May 4, 2026, received an update on state-acquired lands adjacent to Norriego Point Park. City representatives attended a Board of County Commissioners meeting where some commissioners directed further meetings with state representatives. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission identified the site as important for nesting shorebirds, with Audubon Florida planning surveys and signage. The City's Resolution 2026-05 requests management of the park, committing up to $5 million for environmentally sensitive improvements and passive recreation. The future land use and zoning for the property remain critical considerations, with staff recommending Conservation (CON) designation. The Destin City Council meeting on May 4, 2026, approved appointments to various boards. Stephanie Rowe and Alan Osborne were appointed to the Board of Adjustments. Alan Osborne was also appointed to the Harbor and Waterways Board. Ross Haynes was appointed to the Board of Adjustments. Councilmember Braden dissented on Osborne's appointment to the Harbor and Waterways Board. The Destin City Council meeting on May 4, 2026, discussed flood resilience project announcements. Public Information Director Tamara Young stated that survey and geotechnical soils investigation work would begin May 8, 2026, as part of a four-prong flood resilience project. Field crews would collect data, including soil borings, over approximately two to three weeks. [3879 Indian Trail and adjacent property] The Destin City Council meeting on May 4, 2026, accepted two temporary easement agreements related to drainage concerns at 3879 Indian Trail and the adjacent property. The easements allow City employees or contractors access for inspections, surveying, soil testing, and drainage analysis for approximately 60 days. [case Ordinance 26-06-LC] The Destin City Council meeting on May 4, 2026, held the first reading of Ordinance 26-06-LC, concerning renumbering and renaming Land Development Code articles. Public comment was received from Alan Osborne in opposition to proposed fees, arguing they would unfairly burden private boat slip owners. The Council voted on substitute motions and ultimately tabled the ordinance until the next meeting. [case Ordinance 25-24-LC] The Destin City Council meeting on May 4, 2026, held the second reading of Ordinance 25-24-LC, which amends the Land Development Code regarding administration, public participation, and development fees. Public comment was received from Alan Osborne expressing concern about the ordinance and fee structure, particularly for Holiday Isle lot owners. The ordinance was amended to include an exemption for single-family residential homes and passed with a 7-0 vote. The Destin City Council meeting on May 4, 2026, discussed vehicle storage and towing regulations. Councilmember Trammell moved to direct staff to review and clarify definitions distinguishing vehicle repair from storage. Councilmember Destin noted that existing screening requirements may not be enforced. Public comments included concerns from Josh regarding abandoned vehicles and towing providers, and from Stan Nikolov regarding increased operating costs for towing companies. [Terra Cotta parking lot] The Destin City Council meeting on May 4, 2026, discussed parking at the Terra Cotta parking lot. Councilmember Schmidt made a motion to direct staff to bring back a revised parking fee structure including a $5.00 hourly rate for the Terra Cotta parking lot until Labor Day. The motion passed. [case 2025-CC-004246, 2025-CA-0694] The Destin City Council meeting on May 18, 2026, included a call for an executive session regarding case 2025-CC-004246 Chandler, Lennox v. City of Destin, and case 2025-CA-0694 Centeno, Daisy, v. Key Destin Owner LLC, City of Destin, et al. The sessions were scheduled for May 18 at 5:30 PM and 5:45 PM respectively. [Norriego Point Park and adjacent state-owned lands; case Resolution 2026-13] The Destin City Council meeting on May 18, 2026, considered Resolution 2026-13, supporting the protection, preservation, and management of shorebird habitat on and around Norriego Point Park and adjacent state-owned lands. The resolution supports efforts by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission and Audubon Florida. Staff recommended adoption, noting that conservation land use and zoning designations are best for long-term protection of imperiled shorebirds. The resolution was adopted. [Norriego Point Park and adjacent state-owned park property; case Resolution 26-13] The City of Destin formally supports the protection and preservation of shorebird habitat and sensitive nesting areas on and around Norriego Point Park and adjacent state-owned park property. This resolution also supports efforts by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission and Audubon Florida to protect shorebirds, promote conservation, and educate the public. The resolution was transmitted to state agencies and legislative delegation. [case Resolution 26-08, RFB No. 24-08-REC] The City Council approved the first of five annual contract extensions with Pyro Shows, Inc. for the 2026 Independence Day Fireworks Display. The contract amendment includes a price of $39,100 for the fireworks show. Pyro Shows, Inc. has provided these services for over 21 years. [case Item # 2026-812] The City Council is considering spending an additional $10,000 to enhance the July 4th fireworks show, either with extra fireworks or a drone show. The FY 2026 budget has $40,000 allocated for the fireworks, and the basic show is estimated at $39,100. The Parks Foundation may raise funds for the enhancement. [case Item # 2026-791] The City is hiring Inspire Placemaking Collective to facilitate community engagement and write Comprehensive Plan EAR-based amendments. The project cost is $149,500, which includes aligning the plan with the Okaloosa-Walton Transportation Planning Organization's Long Range Transportation Plan. The City has a one-year deadline to transmit the proposed amendments. [case Item # 2026-751] Applicant Wayne Burnette is requesting hardship exceptions for two livery vessel registrations under a moratorium. Staff has reviewed the application, noting that a Business Tax Receipt was approved on April 9, 2026, but lease agreements lack specific parking space assignments, making it difficult to verify compliance with parking requirements. If approved, the applicant must comply with all city codes and regulations. [Terra Cotta lot on Scenic Hwy 98; case Resolution 26-10] The City Council is considering Resolution 26-10, which temporarily amends the paid parking rate at the 'Terra Cotta' lot on Scenic Hwy 98. The rate will be $5 per hour until September 30, 2026, replacing the previous $20 for a four-hour period. This change aims to manage demand and support parking infrastructure reinvestment. [City Parks and park amenities; case Resolution 26-11] The City Council is considering Resolution 26-11, which establishes consistent procedures for naming City parks and park amenities. Naming decisions will be made by the City Council, with options for initiative, City Manager recommendation, requests from entities, or as part of new land development projects. An 'Assistance Petition Process' requires at least 150 registered voter signatures. [case ITEM # 2026-784] The City of Destin is undertaking a renewal and replacement program for roadway maintenance, including milling, resurfacing, and re-striping of 18 streets. The Public Works/Public Safety Committee recommended approval for several specific streets. Work on Gulf Shore Drive and Airport Road is planned for August to minimize tourist season impact. The program aims to address deteriorating pavement conditions, improve ride quality, enhance safety, and extend pavement life by 15-20 years. Localized striping will be completed by in-house staff. The total estimated cost for these projects is $3,081,210.33, with approximately $3.2 million remaining in the FY 2026 budget. H&T Contractors, LLC is the continuing services contractor for milling and resurfacing, and McShea Contracting (Emerald Coast Striping) is the contractor for striping. [Crosstown Connector (CTC) Phase 2 project corridor; case ITEM # 2026-612] The City of Destin is considering the installation of approximately 2,500 linear feet of uniform 10-foot-tall vinyl privacy fencing along the Crosstown Connector (CTC) Phase 2 project corridor. This is to address existing privacy fences that are in varying states of repair, constructed of different materials, and have different colors and styles, which detract from the overall appearance of the project. The proposed fencing aims to provide aesthetic continuity, durability, residential buffering (visual screening, headlight buffering, noise and light mitigation), and potentially enhance safety. Options for guardrail ($35/foot) and concrete barrier ($700/foot) are also being considered. The estimated cost for the fencing project is approximately $250,000, to be funded by Transportation Impact fees budgeted for FY 2026. The City Council is to direct staff on fence options, sound barriers, and other enhancements. [case Resolution 26-12, ITEM # 2026-820] The City Council is considering a resolution to adopt an updated towing fee schedule. The proposed rates are generally consistent with Okaloosa County's rates, with a proposed increase of approximately $30 to $50 in flat fees for each wrecker class. Other cost components align with County fee standards. The motion to adopt the updated schedule passed 6-1 on May 4, 2026, with Councilmember Braden dissenting. The resolution is scheduled for adoption on May 18, 2026. [case ITEM # 2026-781] This document provides an informational update on various capital improvement projects. Key projects include the EN615-Cross-Town Connector (Phases 1 and 2), BOCC-CrossTown Construction, State-FDOT TRIP-CrossTown Construction, State-FDOT-CrossTown ROW Acquisition, and the State-FDOT-Destin Linear Multi-Use Trail (Beach to Benning and Main to Airport). Other projects include Norriego Point Park Development, Hurricane Response, Library Remodel, Pickleball Courts, Morgan Batting Cage, Clement Taylor Park Renovations, Mattie Kelly Naturewalk Outfall, Intersection Safety, Undergrounding utilities, Dredge Harbor, 4 Prong Lake Stormwater, Dalton Threadgill infield artificial turf and lighting, Annex Office Space, John Deere Gator Public Works equipment, Crystal Beach Park CIP, Tarpon Beach Park CIP, Youth Literacy Grant, Pedestrian Pathway Under Marler Bridge, and Dalton Threadgill Park Parking Expansion. Several projects are completed, in progress, or paused. Specific project costs and status updates are provided. [case ITEM # 2026-782] This document provides an informational update on the City of Destin's financial operations for the fiscal year 2026, specifically highlighting the period ending April 30, 2026. It details budget versus actual expenditures and encumbrances across various funds, including the General Fund, Florida Building Code Fund, NPEB Water Quality Fund, Parking Fund, Permitting Technology Fund, Town Center CRA, Harbor CRA, FDEP Water Quality Fund, Okaloosa Half-Penny Fund, loan debt service funds, Renewal & Replacement Fund, Capital Grants Fund, Gas Tax #2, Electric Franchise, and Public Safety Impact Fee. Key financial metrics such as total cash in/out, net change, and fund balances are presented. The report indicates that 58% of the fiscal year has passed, 94% of taxes have been received, and 59% of the Operating Budget and 76% of the Capital Budget have been expended and encumbered. The net change in total fund balance is a year-to-date increase of $3 million. This document contains financial reports and meeting minutes related to city planning and public works. It includes budget and actual expenditures for various impact fee funds (Police, Transportation, Library, Parks), a monthly report on Tourist Development Tax collections, and minutes from several committee meetings. The meeting minutes cover discussions on proposed changes to sign regulations, environmental fee structures, e-bike ordinances, roadway restriping, water tower construction, and park upgrades. No specific construction projects with addresses, sizes, or applicant details for contractors were found in this portion of the document. [case Ordinance 26-06-LC] This document details the City of Destin's proposed renumbering and renaming of its Land Development Code (LDC) from Article 11 to Article 7, titled 'Resource Conservation, Protection, Resiliency, and Sustainability'. The ordinance consolidates various sections related to environmental protection, including coastal management, wetlands, archeological resources, and alternative energy. A key change involves the Net Positive Environmental Benefit (NPEB) fee for marina slips, shifting from a percentage of construction cost to an annual flat fee ($50 for residential, $100 for non-residential, with exemptions for homesteaded properties and those who paid in the last 10 years). The ordinance was recommended for approval by the Local Planning Agency (LPA) on April 2, 2026, but the City Council tabled it on May 4, 2026, with a proposal to add clarifying language regarding the City's responsibility for natural stream movement. The effective date is set for October 1, 2026, pending adoption. [4100 Indian Bayou Trail, Destin, Florida] This document outlines the City of Destin's regulations for development in flood hazard areas, focusing on flood damage prevention, construction practices, and compliance with the National Flood Insurance Program. It details the roles and responsibilities of the Floodplain Administrator, permit requirements, site plan and construction document submissions, inspection procedures, and variance/appeal processes. Specific requirements are provided for subdivisions, site improvements, utilities, manufactured homes, recreational vehicles, park trailers, and tanks. The regulations also address development in coastal high hazard areas and regulatory floodways, emphasizing flood-resistant design and construction methods. The Flood Insurance Study for Okaloosa County, dated March 9, 2021, and accompanying Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM) are adopted as the basis for establishing flood hazard areas. The City of Destin Annex at 4100 Indian Bayou Trail, Destin, Florida, is where studies and maps are filed and records are available for public inspection. [case Ordinance 26-12-LC, Ordinance 25-24-LC] This document is a draft of the Local Planning Agency Meeting Minutes from February 19, 2026. It details two main agenda items: Proposed Ordinance 26-12-LC regarding indoor recreation establishments in the Industrial Zoning District and Proposed Ordinance 25-24-LC, a rewrite of Article 7 of the Land Development Code concerning marine siting, environmental protection, and alternative energy development. For Ordinance 26-12-LC, the agency discussed allowing indoor recreation as a permitted use in industrial zones, establishing parking requirements, and the implications of using a broad NAICS code. Concerns were raised about unintended consequences of allowing a wide range of recreational uses. The agency ultimately recommended approval with modifications to create a specific line item for 'indoor sports establishments' with a defined glossary, keeping it as a permitted use, and clarifying that leisure activities do not include sports betting. For Ordinance 25-24-LC, the rewrite of Article 7, the agency reviewed sections on floodplain management, marine siting, and the Net Positive Environmental Benefit (NPEB) fee. A financial analysis of different NPEB fee calculation methods was presented, with the current code using 25% of project construction cost, and prior discussions involving the LPA and Harbor & Waterways Board recommending alternative methods. The purpose of the NPEB fee is to fund harbor maintenance and environmental needs. [case Ord. 26-06-LC] The Local Planning Agency (LPA) discussed and recommended approval of revisions to Article 7 of the Land Development Code (LDC), focusing on Resource Conservation, Protection, Resiliency, and Sustainability. A key change involves a new methodology for collecting Net Positive Environmental Benefit (NPEB) fees, shifting from a percentage of construction costs to an annual per-slip fee ($50 for residential, $100 for non-residential). This proposal includes a 100% homestead exemption and a prior-payment exemption schedule. The LPA also recommended moving the fee calculation to the city's fee schedule for easier amendment. Additionally, the LPA reviewed and recommended approval of the rewrite of Article 2 of the LDC, which included changes to change-of-use vesting language and other minor revisions. The City Council is to consider these recommendations. [case Ord. 26-16-LC] The City Council is considering Ordinance 26-16-LC, which amends Article 3 (Definitions) and Article 11 (Coastal Management and Conservation) of the Land Development Code (LDC). The ordinance aims to redefine 'beach' to be consistent with the City Charter's jurisdictional boundaries, changing the reference from the 'mean low water line' to the 'mean high water line'. This clarification is intended to resolve confusion in code enforcement. The Local Planning Agency (LPA) held a public hearing and recommended approval of this ordinance to the City Council. [case Ordinance No. 26-17-CC] City of Destin Ordinance 26-17-CC amends the definition of 'beach' in the Code of Ordinances to align with the City Charter's jurisdictional limits, changing the reference from 'mean low water line' to 'mean high water line'. This is for consistency in code enforcement. The ordinance passed first reading on May 18, 2026. [case Ordinance No. 26-18-PC] City of Destin Ordinance 26-18-PC amends the definition of 'beach' in the Comprehensive Plan's Glossary to align with the City Charter's jurisdictional limits, changing the reference from 'mean low water line' to 'mean high water line'. This aims to resolve confusion in code enforcement. The Local Planning Agency recommended approval, and the City Council conducted a public hearing. The ordinance passed first reading on May 18, 2026. [case Ordinance No. 25-13-PC] City of Destin Ordinance 25-13-PC makes transportation-related amendments to the Comprehensive Plan, including Chapters 1, 2, 9, 12, and 13. It deletes the Multimodal Transportation District (MMTD) and replaces references to transportation concurrency and impact fees with the City Mobility Plan and Mobility Fees. The ordinance passed first reading on July 7, 2025, and second reading on May 18, 2026. The Florida Department of Commerce reviewed the ordinance and provided technical assistance comments. Approximately 10+ businesses could be affected annually.