Sweetwater commission approves parking rules, gratuity signage and multiple administrative measures

The City Commission of the City of Sweetwater voted to approve a package of ordinances and resolutions covering parking rules, restaurant disclosure requirements and a range of administrative and procurement measures.

The commission approved a second‑reading ordinance establishing off‑street parking regulations and enforcement procedures, allowing the administration to proceed with the parking system discussed at prior meetings (second reading). The body also adopted an ordinance requiring restaurants to disclose mandatory gratuity policies and to meet minimum signage standards so patrons are informed when gratuity is included (second reading).

On administrative changes, commissioners advanced an ordinance to align the city code with Florida Statute 185 regarding police pension exit provisions (passed on first reading) and approved a change to the Neighborhood Improvement Advisory Board to reduce membership from seven to five, require city residency for members and vest initial appointment authority with the mayor (passed on first reading). The commission also approved procurement and capital items including selection of an office furniture vendor, purchase of a replacement truck for the parts department, a month‑to‑month extension of the bus bench and shelter contract while staff develops an RFP, and purchase of additional street signs to complete citywide replacements.

A resolution authorizing final payment for a design‑build project at 1695 NW 110th Ave was approved, and the commission adopted a resolution clarifying that the mayor may retain outside legal counsel and consultants where fees are paid by a third party; the language was amended on the floor to explicitly add consultants.

Votes were taken by roll call or voice as recorded on the agenda. Where the public hearing was required, no members of the public spoke on the parking or gratuity items. All listed items moved with a motion and second and were approved as presented or as amended.