The St. Augustine City Commission meeting held on July 28, 2025, addressed several key issues affecting the community, including upcoming board appointments, residential parking concerns, and animal welfare.

The meeting commenced with the City Clerk announcing the expiration of terms for three members of the Planning and Zoning Board, effective September 30. Mr. Mike Davis, who has served two full consecutive terms, will not be eligible for reappointment, while Ms. Barnes and Mr. Schaefer, who have each served one term, are eligible to reapply. The commission will formally accept applications for these positions. Additionally, the commission unanimously approved the reappointment of Mr. Thomas Gilboy to the St. Augustine Audit Review Committee, with commendations for his preparedness and contributions.

A significant portion of the meeting focused on concerns regarding residential parking on Rodey Street. Commissioner Garris raised issues about the validity of the 60% support required for parking permits, citing new evidence suggesting that one property owner had signed multiple times, potentially skewing the results. Garris emphasized the need for a re-polling of residents to ensure accurate representation of community sentiment before proceeding with any changes. The discussion highlighted the division among residents, particularly regarding the impact of short-term rentals on the neighborhood.

The commission also discussed the future of a carousel at Davenport Park. The previous contractor, JW Brinkley, is no longer able to fulfill the contract due to health issues, leaving the city without a manager for the attraction. The city manager suggested issuing a request for proposals to find a new contractor to manage the carousel, which has been a long-standing community interest.

In terms of environmental initiatives, a proposal was made to recognize residents who implement eco-friendly landscaping practices. This initiative aims to promote sustainable practices within the community and could be managed by the city’s tree advisory committee.

Animal welfare was another critical topic, with discussions on strengthening ordinances related to horse carriages to ensure the safety and well-being of the animals, especially during extreme heat. Additionally, concerns were raised about the welfare of dolphins at Marineland, which has recently gone bankrupt. The commission considered sending a letter to the appropriate authorities expressing their concern for the dolphins and advocating for their care.

The meeting concluded with various commissioners sharing their thoughts on ongoing issues, including the need for improved communication regarding work orders and code enforcement, as well as addressing disturbances in nightlife areas. The commission expressed a commitment to listening to community concerns and ensuring that residents feel heard and represented in city decisions.

Overall, the meeting underscored the commission's dedication to addressing community issues through collaboration and responsiveness to resident feedback.