Dunedin council plans to honor former mayor Manny Coutureus with city flag at half staff

During the recent City Commission Workshop held on May 7, 2025, in Dunedin, city officials discussed critical infrastructure needs and the legacy of former commissioner Manny Coutureus, who recently passed away.

A significant focus of the meeting was the city’s infrastructure, particularly in light of recent storms that have highlighted vulnerabilities. Officials emphasized the importance of maintaining and improving infrastructure to ensure community safety and resilience. There was a call for a thorough review of the city’s priority list for the upcoming Penny for Pinellas funding in 2027, with suggestions to allocate more resources towards infrastructure projects. This approach aims to alleviate financial pressures on residents while enhancing the city’s facilities and services.

Additionally, the commission discussed potential initiatives to promote water conservation, including recognizing residents who implement sustainable landscaping practices. This aligns with broader community goals of environmental stewardship and resource efficiency.

The meeting also included a heartfelt tribute to Manny Coutureus, a respected former commissioner and mayor. Commissioners expressed their desire to honor his contributions to the city by lowering the city flag to half-staff. They acknowledged the need for a formal policy regarding flag protocol in such instances, ensuring that future recognitions are handled consistently.

As the city moves forward, these discussions reflect a commitment to addressing infrastructure challenges while honoring the legacy of community leaders. The next steps will involve further exploration of funding strategies and the establishment of a flag policy to commemorate significant figures in Dunedin.