City Commission Regular Meeting

1 MINUTES City of Holmes Beach City Commission Regular Meeting February 10, 2026, 2:00 p.m. Patricia A. Geyer Commission Chambers 5801 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach FL 34217 Present: Commissioner Diggins, Commissioner Oelfke, Commissioner Patel, Commissioner Schaefer, Chair Whitmore Staff Present: Mayor Titsworth, City Attorney Mora, City Clerk Johnston, Director of Development Services Minor, Lt. Hall, Director of Public Works/City Engineer Raybourn _____________________________________________________________________ 1. Call to Order; Pledge of Allegiance; Moment of Silence Chair Whitmore called the meeting to order at 2:00 p.m. 2. Roll Call 3. Approval of Minutes 3.a Regular Meeting - January 27, 2026 Moved by Commissioner Schaefer Seconded by Commissioner Diggins Moved to approve the minutes as written. Commissioner Patel asked that her discussion suggesting that the Gloria Dei structure be demolished and then the land taken through eminent domain by the City be added. Amendment: Moved by Commissioner Schaefer Seconded by Commissioner Diggins Moved to discuss the amendment as suggested by Commissioner Patel. Motion Approved Amendment: Moved by Commissioner Schaefer Seconded by Commissioner Patel Approved the minutes to include the amendment suggested by Commissioner Patel. Motion Approved

2 4. Commission Reports Commissioner Schaefer Cruise Port - Resolution Commissioner Schaefer stated that implementation of the Cruise Port was being discussed again that he had discussed during the January 27 meeting. He had spoken with Mayor Titsworth and City Attorney Mora about requesting the City Attorney draft a Resolution in opposition to the Cruise Port. With the issue becoming current in discussion and pursuit, he asked that having a Resolution adopted by the City Commission move forward. Chair Whitmore announced that the Cruise Port was discussed by the Manatee County Commission earlier that day, but the Manatee County Attorney advised them to hold back at this time. Stating the issue may never get approved by the Manatee County Commission she felt the City should hold off until such time as a Resolution was needed. Commissioner Diggins and Commissioner Patel agreed. Commissioner Schaefer pointed out that the issue has been discussed but agreed there was nothing concrete about the plan. However, his goal was to adopt the Resolution which would serve as public notice that the City Commission oppose the proposal. Commissioner Oelfke felt it was important to move forward and adopt a Resolution. Mayor Titsworth had no concerns about adopting a Resolution now in opposition to a Cruise port. She felt it would show the citizens the City is fighting for them and for their quality of life. She was in favor of the City taking the lead then having the ability for other Cities to use the City's Resolution as a draft. After further City Commission discussion: Action: There was unanimous consensus to direct City Attorney Mora to draft a Resolution expressing the City Commission's opposition of the proposed Cruise Port. Commissioner Oelfke Waste Pro Commissioner Oelfke confirmed that Waste Pro provides recycling services at city facilities. There are currently two recycling bins in front of the City Hall building. Any additional recycling bins needed can be placed at different locations. Commissioner Whitmore clarified that what she referred to at the previous meeting is she was wanting the paper generated in City Hall to be recycled. Commissioner Diggins Tourist Development Council (TDC) Update Commissioner Diggins announced that the tourism dollars have been increased as compared to the previous year. The TDC also informed their members that they have funded a program to place 34 life jackets (different sizes) on stands that will be placed at the Manatee County Beach, Sandbar, and at Bean Point Bay Front Park. Life jackets will be there on an honor system. Status of life jackets will be checked by the Chief of Beach Patrol every 30 days. Commissioner Schaefer asked how much money the TDC has in reserves. Commissioner Diggins will provide him with the information.

3 Chair Whitmore presented a brief TDC report that included the number of visitors, room rates, etc. in Manatee County from this time last year to the current. Chair Whitmore Chamber Events Chair Whitmore announced that the City is a member of both the Bradenton and Anna Maria Chamber of Commerce. She encouraged the City Commissioners to review the Chamber events and attend them if possible. The City Clerk will share any event information she receives. Well on City Field Chair Whitmore discussed the well that had been closed years ago due to salinity in the water. She asked someone verify the status of the well. Dog Park Commissioner Diggins asked if someone could verify what chemicals are being used in the Dog Park. He looked at the Dog Park's new grass and said the roots are now going into the natural soil. He could not lift the sod so he estimated the Dog Park could be reopened in a couple of weeks. He did not go into the small Dog Park at his last visit. Baseball Field Update The Baseball Field is now open for use. Digital/Media Strategist McDonough will be making an announcement on the City's social media accounts. Chair Whitmore recommended that GT Bray be notified about the opening of the baseball field in the event they know groups who would like to utilize it. 5. Mayor's Report Mayor Titsworth announced she held the first 'Coffee with the Mayor' earlier that morning. There were approximately 20 in attendance, and they will continue to be held on a quarterly basis. Chair Whitmore encouraged the City Commissioners to hold individual Town Hall meetings. 6. Comments by the Public None. 7. Unfinished Business 7.a Public Hearing - 2nd Reading - Ordinance 26-01 - Amendment to Building Code Provisions on Substantial Damage Director of Development Services Minor read the Ordinance by title. The Planning Commission approved Ordinance 26-01 as being consistent with the Comprehensive Plan at their February 4 meeting. Staff recommends approval. Chair Whitmore opened the Public Hearing. Hearing no public comment, the Public Hearing was closed. Moved by Commissioner Schaefer Seconded by Commissioner Diggins Ordinance 26-01 was approved for Second Reading and Adoption.

4 Motion Approved 7.b Public Hearing - 2nd Reading - Ordinance 26-02 - Repair of Nonconforming Structures Director of Development Services Minor read the Ordinance by title. The Planning Commission approved Ordinance 26-02 as being consistent with the Comprehensive Plan at their February 4 meeting. They did recommend one addition in Section 2., 4.8 - 18 months "after an identifiable event"... A brief explanation relating to the Ordinance followed. Staff recommended approval of the Ordinance. Chair Whitmore opened the Public Hearing. Hearing no public comment, the Public Hearing was closed. Moved by Commissioner Diggins Seconded by Commissioner Oelfke Ordinance 26-02 was approved for Second Reading and Adoption to include the Planning Commission's recommended language "after an identifiable event". Motion Approved 8. New Business 8.a Authorize the Mayor to execute the Reimbursement Agreement for Capital Improvements between Manatee County and the City of Holmes Beach regarding the Beach Pedestrian Path Funding Request Director of Development Services Minor presented the request. Chair Whitmore stated that the reason the Tourist Development Council (TDC) could approve the request was that the sidewalks being made into multi-use paths which attract tourism. Mayor Titsworth announced that the sidewalk in front of the Fire Station would be changed to an 8-ft. multi-use path where allowed. She stated that the 43rd Street to 52nd Street path construction would not begin until the summer. Explanation followed relating to the project request history. Conceptual plans are underway for Marina Drive stormwater repairs to expedite drainage from side streets. Commissioner Diggins stated that TDC has voted in favor of the project. Once approved by the City Commission it will be scheduled for the Manatee County Commission's consideration. Public Comment - None. Action: On majority consensus, the Mayor was authorized to execute the Reimbursement Agreement for Capital Improvements between Manatee County and the City of Holmes Beach regarding the Beach Pedestrian Path Funding Request.

5 9. Announcements  Wednesday, February 11, 2026 - 9:00 a.m. - Clean Water Ad Hoc Committee Meeting  Thursday, February 12, 2026 - 10:00 a.m. - Code Compliance Special Magistrate Hearings - Cancelled  Monday, February 16, 2026 - President's Day - Offices Closed  Tuesday, February 24, 2026 - 2:00 p.m. - City Commission Meeting w/Work Session to Follow 10. Questions and Comments 10.a Questions and Comments from Mayor and City Commission Commissioner Schaefer Commissioner Schaefer complemented the Mayor for the esthetic improvements at the beach accesses due to the coordination between the Parks & Beautification Committee and the Garden Club. Mayor Titsworth explained that the Garden Club were looking for a project Island-wide which benefited each of the Island Cities. She mentioned to them that the beach accesses had been destroyed during the 2024 Hurricanes. The Garden Club are seeking sponsorships for the beach ends at $1,000 each from different businesses. The sponsorship will continue for one year with the existing entity having first right to renew the following year. Mayor Titsworth stated that the sponsorships received will not go into a separate line item. The sponsorship money is to be used for the plants, and the Public Works provide the labor. If the project is to continue the City could create a separate fund. Commissioner Patel Commissioner Patel asked what procedure to follow for reserving the ballpark. Mayor Titsworth responded that the City can be called to reserve the field or it can be used if no one else is utilizing the field at the time. Commissioner Patel received a phone call from a resident stating that the Skate Park lights were not working. Director of Public Works/City Engineer Raybourn will investigate. Commissioner Diggins Commissioner Diggins spoke with Bradenton's Mayor Brown who explained why the horses on the causeway could not be moved or relocated for traffic safety purposes. Discussion continued. It was noted that where the horses are currently located, they have trampled the seagrass. Moving them to another causeway location would only result in more of the seagrass being damaged. Commissioner Diggins plans to speak to the Clean Water Committee at their Wednesday, February 11 meeting about the issue.

6 Chair Whitmore stated that because the Health Department needs 'consistent data' they have only tested the water quality on the south side of the causeway and have not taken samples on the north side where the horses are located. She felt it was important to also test the north side of the causeway where the horses are located. Chair Whitmore announced that the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) have considered horses as a form of transportation. Chair Whitmore Chair Whitmore thanked Commissioner Diggins for his idea for merging onto the causeway from 75th Street. Signage was created for drivers to utilize both lanes to merge into. Commissioner Diggins stated the change has cut down on road rage. Commissioner Patel Commissioner Patel asked about the Trolley Stops on East Bay Drive in front of Publix. Mayor Titsworth stated it had to be removed after the 2024 storms. The project which will be reimbursed by FEMA is currently out for RFP due to being over $25,000. Director of Public Works/City Engineer Raybourn provided an estimated bidding timeline. Chair Whitmore asked that the new Trolley Stops not be built during the height of tourist season. 10.b Questions and Comments from City Attorney None. 10.c Questions and Comments from Staff Approval of Temporary Use Permit - Art League Spring Fest Director of Development Services Minor asked for consensus to approve the Anna Maria Art League's Spring Fest's Temporary Use Permit which includes beer and wine sales. City Commission approval is required if beer and/or wine are sold on the City Field. The event will be held on February 28 and March 1, 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. each day. A portion of the proceeds will go to the Art League. Commissioner Schaefer asked if the City's liability insurance covered the event in case of any accidents. Director of Development Services Minor announced that a $1 Million policy has been provided as part of the Temporary Use Permit application. City Clerk Johnston explained that along with the $1 Million policy listing the City as an Additional Insured, a separate insurance that includes a Liquor Liability clause was required whenever beer or wine are sold or given away on City property. That policy must also include the City as an additional insured. Action: There was majority consensus that the Anna Maria Art League Spring Fest Temporary Use Permit for February 28, and March 1, 2026, be approved with the sales of Beer and Wine on the City Field. Building Department and Code Compliance Update Director of Development Services Minor presented the Building Department's permit and inspections update. He noted that 84 Demolition Permits had been issued since the 2024 hurricanes. Two homes have joined in with the Elevate Florida Program.

7 1,660 Vacation Rental Certificates have been issued. FDEM Audit The Building Department was recently audited by the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) and received a good report with no issues identified. Bernie Tibbetts Field Mural Director of Development Services Minor announced that a gentleman who previously worked in minor league baseball has requested to have a mural painted at the Baseball Field in honor of Bernie Tibbitts. No Fee Storm-related Permits The Building Department is continuing to issue permits for storm-related improvements. There will be no fee required if the home is built back as it was. It was noted that the total cost of the free permits issued was $3.2 Million. Mayor Titsworth reported that the free permit program will need to end soon to fund the Building Department. Holmes Beach has an Interlocal Agreement with the City of Anna Maria for Building Department needs but it has not yet been utilized. There is also an agreement with the City of Bradenton Beach but only for vacation needs, etc. 10.d Questions and Comments from the Public and Press None. 11. Adjournment Chair Whitmore adjourned the meeting at 2:57 p.m. _________________________ Stacey Johnston, MMC, City Clerk _________________________ Minutes Approved