Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Dunedin public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
8 issues in environment with high priority
Recycling services contract award
Recycling now costs $1.17 million a year — up from about $931,000 — and two commissioners balked at the price and the missing side-by-side comparison with the rival bidder before voting it down. It returns October 22 with more data, and residents' rates (paid through the enterprise fund) will reflect the outcome.
Vulnerability Assessment and Adaptation Plan
A fully grant-funded study of 60 flood scenarios identifies the wastewater treatment plant, supply wells, the Causeway, and neighborhoods as vulnerable to surge, rainfall, and sea level rise. Approved 4-1 but commissioners demanded a plain-English summary and a workshop on execution.
Dunedin Causeway motorized watercraft launching
The commission permanently banned launching or landing jet skis and other motorized watercraft from the Causeway beach, effective immediately. Supporters cited two jet ski deaths, seagrass recovery since the 2024 storms, and lack of infrastructure; opponents said no data proves jet skis damage seagrass and asked for a resident-permit alternative.
Weaver Park shoreline erosion and living shoreline project
Weaver Park's shoreline is eroding and Pinellas County won't permit a seawall there, so staff are designing a living shoreline — riprap, mangroves, oyster structures — plus an ADA kayak launch. The design avoids all surveyed seagrass. Cost depends on phasing, and no construction money moves before the November referendum.
Jerry Branch Creek erosion at Tahitian Place
A condo HOA president says the creek bank on their property has eroded from a 4:1 slope to roughly 2:1, threatening structures, and says city staff haven't responded to earlier calls.
Hammock Advisory Committee dissolution
The city wants to shrink its 26 boards and committees to 21, which could fold the Hammock Advisory Committee into a broader environmental lands committee. No decision has been made — resolutions haven't been drafted — and a public workshop of the HAC is planned. Residents passionately support the Hammock.
Cedar Creek debris removal and drainage
Jim Cowger says the ditch behind his home is a safety hazard — he chased kids out of it — and wants clarification on whether the City's mowing and gabion work creates a maintenance obligation.
Sustainable Development Scorecard (Ordinance 25-11)
Second reading was scheduled for an ordinance updating how the city scores new development on sustainability. It shapes what builders must do to win approval in Dunedin.