Destin City Council meeting summary

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Arbor Day celebration took place at Buck Destin Park April 24, 2026. Arantza Ramos is sharing her reading that she read at the ceremony. | reports=1

(Note: Individual speakers will be limited to 3 minutes. At the discretion of the mayor, this 3 minute allowance may be adjusted depending on the level of business coming before the City Council)

The Corpus Christi Catholic Church is requesting use of city streets to hold their 2nd Annual Eucharistic Procession. The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office Posse will assist with traffic control Okaloosa County EMS and Destin Fire Control District are aware of the procession and will provide assistance; if needed. | attachments=1 | reports=1

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The following are recent updates relating to the state-owned Park Property in Holiday Isle (City of Destin). 1. County-Wide Survey Results On March 26, 2026, the City received results from a COUNTY-WIDE SURVEY that asked randomly-selected County residents what they prefer to see as the public use of the newly acquired land purchased by the State of Florida for a park in Holiday Isle ("Park" or "Park Property"). An outside firm, Cherry Communications (Tallahassee), was utilized by the City for their expertise in conducting phone surveys. This new information will be discussed at tonight's Council meeting of April 7, 2026. In sum, the survey showed that nearly 88% of County residents desire for the Park Property to remain natural or with minimal amenities, that over 75% of County residents oppose commercial marina use, and that only 2% of the County supports a marina rental model. The margin of error for survey results is approximately 4.9%. Cherry Communications 207 W. Park Ave., Ste. A Tallahassee, FL 32301 cherrycom.com 2. Adoption of City Council Resolution 2026-05 on March 16, 2026, Requesting City Management of Park and Committing Up to Five Million Dollars. On March 16, 2026, the City Council approved Resolution 2026-05, which is attached to this agenda item as additional background . Resolution 2026-05 respectfully requests that the State of Florida authorize the City of Destin to serve as the Lessee and local managing entity for the Park Property. In the resolution, the City affirms its commitment to managing the Park in a manner that emphasizes environmental stewardship, conservation, passive recreation, and compatibility with surrounding residential and conservation areas. Further, the Resolution provides that the City of Destin is prepared to invest municipal resources into the stewardship and improvement of the Park Property and is willing to commit funding for the redevelopment, restoration, and enhancement of the Park in an amount not to exceed Five Million Dollars ($5,000,000.00) in order to support environmentally sensitive improvements, passive recreational amenities, and long-term conservation management consistent with the character of the surrounding community. The resolution has been forwarded to County and State representatives as directed by the City Council. It is expected that the City Council's resolution will be considered first at the April 7th BCC meeting, and again on April 21st along with any concept plans approved tonight by the Destin City Council, and a Council decision on free park parking for all County residents, as further explained in the Discussion section of this Staff Report. 3. Zoning/Land Use/Development Order Background Information The following background information is provided for public knowledge (and has been previously provided): As discussed at prior meetings both at the City and County level, the current land use entitlements for the State Park property adjacent to the City's Norriego Point Park prohibit all nonresidential uses. Since it appears a condo will not be built on the property, given that the State's purchase was described as for "conservation," the entitlements of the property should be updated so that the property may be maintained for non-residential purposes. This process would include: 1. Amendment to the City's Comprehensive Plan (Future Land Use Designation on the Property) 2. Rezoning of the Property, and 3. Amendment to the existing Development Order. All three of these referenced land use applications would require City Council approvals and public hearings with the public invited to participate, which would occur generally as follows: Public Hearing One: Future Land Use Map (FLUM) amendment at Land Planning Agency (LPA) meeting Public Hearing Two: Rezoning at LPA meeting (Public hearings 1 and 2 would likely be done at the same LPA meeting) Public Hearing Three: FLUM amendment at City Council meeting (first reading of FLUM ordinance) Public Hearing Four: Rezoning at City Council meeting (first reading of zoning ordinance) (Public hearings 3 and 4 would likely be done at the same City Council meeting) Public Hearing Five: FLUM amendment at City Council meeting (second reading of FLUM ordinance) Public Hearing Six: Rezoning at City Council meeting (second reading of zoning ordinance) (Public hearings 5 and 6 would likely be done at the same City Council meeting) Notably, as has been discussed, the docks are legally classified as a residential use tied to a condominium that was never constructed. Without amendment to the Development Order, the docks cannot lawfully be used independently. In order to comply with existing codes, the docks would need to be removed or a Major Amendment to Development Order 21-23 would be required, with an additional public hearing before the City Council. Note that Development Order 21-23 prohibits all nonresidential uses of the docks, including but not limited to slip rentals, commercial uses, or any uses that involve boat traffic at a frequency or intensity not typical of a residential area. The Comprehensive Plan states, in relevant part that: OBJECTIVE 1-2.8: CONSERVATION LAND USE DESIGNATION. The FLUM (Map 1-1), shall identify lands that are environmentally fragile for long-term preservation by designating them as "CON." Environmentally fragile lands shall be referred to as conservation resources, which are defined in Rule 9J-5.003(30), Florida Administrative Code. The protection and preservation of conservation resources shall be achieved through the implementation of the following Policies. Policy 1-2.8.1: Conservation (CON). The FLUM shall designate lands that are natural and coastal resources as "CON." It is the intent of the "CON" land use designation to provide for the long-term protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive natural resource systems. The LDC shall be amended to ensure no development is permitted within "CON" designated areas, other than beach accessways, such as dune walkovers, parking, docks, restroom facilities, and passive recreation. The City’s Land Development Code is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan, pursuant to State Law. Importantly: Norriego Point Park, which is adjacent to the newly acquired State Park, contains the Conservation (CON) future land use designation and zoning. The Conservation district is highly restrictive and intended for environmental preservation. Marinas are not permitted in either the Conservation (CON) Future Land Use Designation and Zoning District. Under the City’s Land Development Code (Section 7.12.06(BB) and Table 7-2), development within CONSERVATION (CON) is limited to beach accessways such as dune walkovers, parking areas, docks, restroom facilities (up to one story), and passive recreation. Norriego Point currently holds a Future Land Use Designation and Zoning of Conservation, and this zoning would maintain consistency between the State and City Park. Finally, please note that if the future land use and zoning for this Property are changed, any proposed use would still need to be consistent with all additional applicable provisions of the Comp Plan and LDC, State and federal permitting requirements, any applicable easements, and any required development order amendments. Pursuant to Council directives, the City Manager and City Attorney have contacted appropriate County and State representatives. As of the date of this agenda item, the Property is owned by the State of Florida, and there is no known entity with a leasehold interest or approved management plan for the Property. 4. April 21st BCC Meeting in Response to City Resolution 2026-05: On April 21, 2026, the Okaloosa County Commissioners discussed City Resolution 2026-05 and noted the City's concept plan. Several members of the Destin City Council, the City Manager, City Attorney, and several residents spoke during the BCC meeting in support of City Council Resolution 2026-05 and in support of the City of Destin obtaining the Lease and management of the Park Property. From the City's perspective, the discussion reflected both support and hesitation among County leadership. Commissioners Sherri Cox and Carolyn Ketchel each expressed clear support for the City's request to lease the Park from the State and to assume management of the Park Property. Their statements aligned with the City's position that local stewardship would best serve residents and the long-term interests of the Park. However, Commissioner Paul Mixon introduced a motion directing the Okaloosa County Board of County Commissioners to send Commissioner Drew Palmer to meet with State officials, alongside a City representative, to further clarify the State's objectives regarding the Park. This motion was made despite the City's formal request - and despite the support voiced by multiple residents - for the City to move forward with leasing and managing the property. Commissioner Paul Mixon, Commissioner Drew Palmer, and Chairman Trey Goodwin voted in support of Commissioner Mixon's motion, with Commissioner Sherri Cox and Commissioner Carolyn Ketchel dissenting. The final vote was thus 3-2. Council Member Destin and Commissioner Palmer were scheduled to attend such a meeting on April 30th. However, it was decided that the meeting will be rescheduled to a date between May 12 and 15th. As of the time/date of this staff report on the morning of May 14, 2025), the meeting has not been rescheduled. | attachments=1 | reports=1

The City of Destin outsources the annual Independence Day Fireworks Display. The Parks & Recreation Department does not have the proper licenses or expertise to perform this function. Therefore, it is necessary to contract with a reputable vendor who has the expertise, equipment, licensing and resources. Pyro Shows, Inc. has satisfactorily provided these services for over 21 years. | attachments=4 | reports=1

Requesting a Fireworks or Drone show as an addition to the $39,100 Fireworks show on July 4. The additional show will be $10,000. Parks Foundation has set up a fund for contributions to go directly to the $10.000 towards the extra show. | attachments=1 | reports=1

Every seven years, Florida Statutes Section 163.3191, require local governments to evaluate and amend their comprehensive plans to reflect changes in state laws and local conditions. This process is called the Comprehensive Plan Evaluation and Appraisal Report or EAR. The City is required to transmit the proposed EAR amendments to the Department of Florida Commerce within one year of submitting our EAR notification letter. The City's EAR notification letter was sent to the Department of Florida Commerce on April 16, 2026, and the proposed EAR-based amendments must be transmitted by May 16, 2027, or the City will be unable to adopt any further amendments to the Comprehensive Plan. | attachments=2 | reports=1

The applicant, Wayne Burnette, is requesting the Council consider his hardship request for two livery vessel registrations under the livery moratorium. See attached request of applicant. The City's temporary livery vessel moratorium provides, in relevant part: The City of Destin shall not issue any Permit or any other document which would have the effect of permitting or otherwise authorizing the operation of any Livery Vessels . . . unless either (1) the Vendor demonstrates a Substantial Hardship, as the term is defined herein, or (2) an agreement between the City of Destin and the Vendor exists, that has been authorized by the City Council. " Substantial hardship " means a demonstrable, direct, financial detriment in excess of $10,000.00 suffered by a Vendor as a result of capital investments purchased in reliance on the terms of ordinance number 17-07-CC. | attachments=2 | reports=1

The proposed language revises the paid parking rate at the "Terra Cotta" lot on Scenic Hwy 98 to five dollars per hour until September 30, 2026. | attachments=1 | reports=1

The City Council has expressed its desire to establish and maintain a consistent approach to and procedure for naming City parks and park amenities such as pavilions and other structures located within City parks (benches and trees are not considered park amenities for purposes of this Resolution). In this regard, Resolution 26-11 is attached for Council consideration. | attachments=1 | reports=1

As part of the City’s ongoing commitment to roadway maintenance, the Public Works Department has developed a Renewal/Replacement Schedule for the City of Destin to proactively maintain and preserve the City’s roadway infrastructure. The resurfacing program is intended to address roadway deterioration before conditions worsen and more costly reconstruction becomes necessary. For FY 2026, the Public Works Department has identified the final group of streets recommended for milling, resurfacing, and re-striping. These projects are part of the City Council’s previously approved aggressive resurfacing schedule to ensure public roadways continue to meet minimum roadway surfacing standards and maintain a safe and efficient transportation network. | attachments=5 | reports=1

The Crosstown Connector (CTC) Phase 2 project (RFB 25-17-CM) includes roadway, curb, sidewalk, drainage, lighting, signing, landscaping, and irrigation improvements. Along the corridor limits, several existing privacy fences are located adjacent to the new roadway. These fences (see attached photos) are: In varying states of repair Constructed of different materials (vinyl, wood panel, shadowbox) Different colors and construction styles Visually inconsistent As the Crosstown Connector becomes operational, these fence conditions will remain highly visible from the public right-of-way and may detract from the overall appearance and finished quality of the project. Staff is requesting Council direction on installation of approximately 2,500 linear feet of uniform 10-foot-tall vinyl (or similar composite) privacy fencing to “bookend” and unify the corridor. See the attachment depicting the placement of proposed fencing in green. | attachments=2 | reports=1

On May 4, 2026, the following motion was passed by Council: Motion by Councilmember Herbert, seconded by Councilmember Trammell, to adopt an updated towing fee schedule at the same rates as currently adopted by the County and direct City Attorney to draft a Resolution, passed 6-1 with Councilmember Braden dissenting. | attachments=7 | reports=1

This item is informational only. | attachments=1 | reports=1

This item is informational only. | attachments=1 | reports=1

In August 2023, Council requested a monthly update of collections of the Tourist Development Tax. Short-Term rental owners submit monthly reports and remit payment of TDT to the Okaloosa County Clerk. Attached is the latest available report. Report Location: https://okaloosaclerk.com/board-services/tourist-development-tax/ At bottom of the Okaloosa Clerk's page see link: Click here to get the monthly Tourist Tax Collection Report. OR: https://app.powerbigov.us/view?r=eyJrIjoiNGQxNjBiMjktOTk3OC00ODgxLTg3MzYtZmI1YjhjZThlN2E1IiwidCI6IjQwYWI4ZmUzLTMyOTctNDc4Zi04MmVhLTJkYmRhMWIwZmJkOSJ9 | attachments=1 | reports=1

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On April 5, 2021, City Council unanimously approved the scope of work and budget to rewrite the Land Development Code (LDC). Since then, staff has advanced the project through comprehensive review, public comment and drafting. Major activities have included: Review of Comprehensive Plan Policies Developing Planning Areas and their associated Intent Statements Review of the LDC text chapter by chapter Public workshops with City Council, the Local Planning Agency (LPA) and other advisory boards A draft of Article 7 was presented to the City Council at its workshop on October 28, 2024, and their comments have been incorporated into the proposed Ordinance, along with public comments and recommendations from the Local Planning Agency and the Harbor and Waterways Board. | attachments=7 | reports=1

Staff recommends approval of Ordinance 26-16-LC for consistency with the City's jurisdictional boundaries as established in the City Charter. | attachments=1 | reports=1

Staff recommends approval of Ordinance 26-17-CC for consistency with the City's jurisdictional boundaries as established in the City Charter. | attachments=1 | reports=1

Staff recommends approval of Ordinance 26-18-PC for consistency with the City's jurisdictional boundaries as established in the City Charter. | attachments=1 | reports=1

At the March 1, 2021, City Council meeting, Council passed a motion to replace transportation concurrency (MMTD) with a Mobility Fee-Based Plan. Staff worked with 3TP Ventures to create the Mobility Plan, which the Council adopted on September 16, 2024. The Mobility Plan is a comprehensive blueprint for addressing the City's current and future transportation needs. Mobility fees fund transportation projects that address the impacts of future growth, while also addressing service gaps such as multimodal infrastructure and traffic congestion. The Mobility Plan is fee-based. The mobility fees were approved on May 19, 2025, and replaced the transportation impact fee. Adoption of the Mobility Plan and fee negated the transportation concurrency requirements of the comprehensive plan and LDC. However, the city will continue to track the transportation level of service (LOS) to ensure the system is operating as needed. | attachments=3 | reports=1