In a recent city meeting, residents expressed serious concerns regarding the handling of a federal grant aimed at preserving historic buildings, particularly the Church of Stuart. David Aversa, representing the church, highlighted extensive damage caused by contractors, specifically the Patriot Response Group and Guardian Community Resource Management. He criticized the lack of oversight, stating that the contractors had installed oversized windows without proper permissions, leading to structural compromises.

Aversa emphasized the dire living conditions faced by church members, who have been without windows or air conditioning since May, raising fears of mold and pest infestations. He urged city officials to contact the contractors' insurance companies to address the damages, which he estimated at over $42,000, and questioned the allocation of federal funds meant for preservation.

City Manager Mortel responded, noting that the city had offered to allow homeowners to hire their own contractors to replace the windows, but disputes over costs had stalled progress. He clarified that the city’s role was primarily administrative, facilitating the grant process without direct control over contractor selection or oversight.

Board member Breckbill expressed frustration with the city's involvement in such programs, suggesting that the city should avoid similar initiatives in the future due to the lack of control and accountability. However, Robert Hamilton, another church representative, countered that the city should not abandon its efforts to support the community, advocating for a resolution to the ongoing issues.

In a lighter segment of the meeting, community member Brandon Cooper advocated for the establishment of a skate park in Stuart, highlighting its potential benefits for local youth and families. He urged city officials to prioritize funding for the skate park, which would be the first of its kind in the city, and suggested that existing grant funds could be allocated to expedite its development.

The meeting underscored the challenges faced by the city in managing federal grants and the importance of community engagement in addressing local needs. As discussions continue, residents remain hopeful for a resolution that ensures accountability and supports the preservation of their historic landmarks.