The Fort Pierce City Commission held a regular meeting on May 12, 2025, focusing on several key issues, including the redevelopment of the Lincoln Park Theater, community engagement strategies, and the appointment of members to the infrastructure surtax citizen oversight committee.

The meeting began with discussions regarding the Lincoln Park Theater, which has seen little progress in its redevelopment since 2021. City officials expressed concern over the deteriorating condition of the theater, noting that the city has invested $250,000 into the facility and surrounding properties. A representative from Lincoln Park Main Street reported that a grant had been awarded for updates to the theater's design, but no further actions have been taken since then. The commission emphasized the need for the Martin Luther King Jr. Commemorative Committee to provide updates on the theater's status and agreed to invite the committee's new president, Larriton McNeely, to a future meeting for further discussions.

The commission also addressed the appointment of members to the infrastructure surtax citizen oversight committee. The commission unanimously approved the appointment of Chantelle Heipolit as Commissioner Johnson's appointee and voted to select Betty Jo Stark as the at-large member from two applicants.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the Community Listening Action Plan, which aims to enhance engagement with residents. The plan outlines strategies for involving youth and seniors in city discussions, including school listening tours and senior listening circles. The commission highlighted the importance of informal outreach efforts, encouraging city staff to engage with residents during their daily duties. The goal is to foster a culture of listening and responsiveness within the city.

Commissioners expressed support for the multifaceted approach to community engagement, emphasizing the need for collaboration with local organizations and stakeholders. They discussed the importance of clear communication and the necessity of addressing misinformation within the community.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the city's commitment to revitalizing the Lincoln Park Theater, enhancing community engagement, and ensuring effective oversight of infrastructure funding. The commission plans to continue discussions on these topics in future meetings, with a focus on actionable steps and community involvement.