In a recent city commission meeting, officials approved a resolution to engage Walters Zachariah Associates PLLC for consulting services aimed at renovating the Fleet Services building, which has been in operation since the late 1980s. The renovation is deemed essential to enhance the building's resilience against natural disasters, particularly hurricanes and tropical storms. The facility is critical for the city's public works, police, fire, and paramedic services, housing essential tools and equipment necessary for routine and emergency operations.

Public Works Director highlighted the building's deteriorating condition, including a leaking roof and outdated doors that do not meet hurricane standards. The renovation plan includes structural hardening measures, such as replacing the roof and installing impact-resistant doors, as well as the addition of a solar array projected to generate 310 megawatt hours of electricity annually. This solar initiative aligns with the city's sustainability goals and is expected to pay for itself within six to seven years, aided by a 30% reimbursement under the Inflation Reduction Act.

The city has allocated funds for the design phase in the fiscal year 2024 budget, with construction planned for fiscal year 2025. Additionally, the city is pursuing a $1.7 million grant from the Florida Division of Emergency Management to support the renovation efforts.

In another significant agenda item, the commission accepted a $963,000 grant from the Department of Justice for the implementation of body-worn cameras for the police department. The police chief outlined a timeline for the rollout, which includes vendor selection and officer training, aiming for deployment by April. The initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance transparency and accountability within the police force.

Lastly, the commission discussed amendments to the city's backflow prevention regulations, increasing fees for the recertification of backflow preventers. This adjustment is necessary to comply with state mandates requiring annual testing of these devices, which protect the water supply from contamination.

The meeting underscored the city's commitment to improving infrastructure resilience and public safety through strategic investments and compliance with regulatory requirements.