Captain James Pick, speaking for a reconstituted leadership team that previously ran the Saint Andrews Civic Club, told the commission he will submit a formal proposal seeking a long-term lease for the club’s historic building and permission to restore and operate it at no cost to the city. "We would pay all the utilities, all the insurance, all the upkeep on the building," Pick said, adding the group intends to pursue grants and, later, nonprofit status.

The city was told the group has maintained the clubhouse through Hurricane Michael and hosted community events in the aftermath, offering that local volunteers and donated labor could handle much of the work. Pick said the organization would like access to funds already appropriated for the building and asked the city to make grant opportunities available while they formalize an agreement.

Why it matters: the Civic Club building is a community resource in Saint Andrews. Residents told the commission they want the space preserved for public use and worry that privatized or commercial redevelopment could eliminate a neighborhood hub.

Residents who live near Truesdale Park encouraged the commission to preserve park character while addressing practical needs. Dolores King, who said she lives five houses from the park, thanked commissioners for seeking more public input and asked the city to improve meeting notices, publish agendas and post video/minutes so those who cannot attend can review proposals. "I support the fact that we need the building to stay a community center," King said.

Speakers also asked for targeted, low-cost infrastructure tied to the Civic Club proposal: Captain Pick requested a separate water meter to support a proposed Willard Nelson Memorial community garden and a simple, maintenance-friendly restroom facility similar to one at Carl Grama Park. Property owners adjacent to Truesdale urged protections for disabled access and emergency vehicle access if a parking plan proceeds.

Commission response and next steps: a commissioner said staff will add a parking-clarity item to the next meeting agenda and recommended a step-by-step approach that starts with addressing parking and raising park amenities before moving to long-term use questions. The commissioner noted some existing funds are grant-restricted and cannot be reallocated without following grant terms.

What remains unresolved: the Civic Club’s written proposal is forthcoming and commissioners and staff indicated they will review terms, including the handling of any appropriated funds and whether the city will formalize a lease or other agreement. Residents asked for clearer notice of future ward meetings and for the city to circulate proposals and meeting recaps online so absent residents can review them.

The commission did not take formal action at this meeting; staff indicated the item will be placed on an upcoming agenda for further discussion.