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Board hears updates on pools, Bobby Jones finances, Saint Armands events and utility undergrounding efforts
Summary
The board discussed pool hours and rentals, Bobby Jones financial results and projects, utility undergrounding discussions with FPL for island neighborhoods, and an invitation for an external parks district to present on dedicated park funding.
Board members raised several operational and programmatic items during the regular meeting.
Pool operations: Board members asked whether Arlington and Lido pools could be open for public use on Sundays. Parks staff said Arlington accepts private rentals on Sundays and that Lido is open on Sundays, and that staff will consider options for increased public access. No schedule change was adopted.
Bobby Jones golf course: Board members reviewed a July financial statement delivered by staff showing a standalone monthly profit for July and a year‑to‑date position that reflects a large bond payment of $1,400,000; after that payment the facility operated at an approximately $55,000 year‑to‑date loss. Staff said the fiscal year ends September 30 and projected the course will show a profit after bond and end‑of‑year adjustments; managers have proposed future improvement projects but had not yet presented a coherent plan for approval.
Saint Armands Circle and events: Members complimented recent landscaping work at Saint Armands Circle and discussed event limits. Board members clarified that the circle is managed largely by the St. Armands merchants and homeowners associations, that the space functions as a traffic circle and stormwater catch basin, and that only a small number of large events (four or five) are typically approved each season. Board members discussed options to add event fees or rental surcharges to help cover landscaping and maintenance costs.
Utility undergrounding and funding: Board members reported ongoing discussions with Florida Power & Light (FPL) and neighborhood associations (Lido Shores, Lido Beach and St. Armands) about burying utilities to improve storm resilience. Board members said surveys have been taken across the three neighborhoods and that the group is exploring a bond to fund undergrounding work; no funding decisions were made at the meeting.
External presentation request: Board members discussed inviting Brianna Harms from the Boca Raton Beach District to present on district funding and downtown revitalization; members preferred not to delay that presentation into the new year and discussed scheduling a remote (Zoom) presentation if an in‑person visit is not possible.
Minutes and administrative action: The board approved the August 21 meeting minutes after a motion and second; the motion passed unanimously. The board also confirmed that the next meeting is scheduled for Thursday, October 16 at 4 p.m. at City Hall.
