Committee approves adding color to medians, flags irrigation and lighting issues on Harrison

A motion to add colorful, drought-resistant plants to Belleair Beach medians passed after committee members argued the current fountain/grassy plantings looked "dull" and suggested adding contrasting blooms for visual impact.

A Committee member moved to add plant color to planters and the motion was seconded and approved without a roll-call vote recorded. Members discussed relocating or supplementing existing ornamental fountain grass (called "lipstick" or firecracker plants in conversation) with lower-maintenance varieties that attract pollinators.

The committee also raised infrastructure concerns: irrigation at the 12th Street median appears to have an inaccessible valve (members said water may be under turf and that two people were looking at the issue) and a separate discussion noted a damaged palm tree where insurance proceeds were insufficient to cover replacement. Members expressed concern about a dark stretch of Harrison Avenue where a previously removed light was not reinstalled, creating safety and visibility issues for residents.

The committee directed follow-up: obtain specific irrigation diagnostics for the 12th Street median; price replacement palm trees and confirm insurance coverage details; and locate options for low-maintenance, colorful plantings to be placed in medians. Implementation was assigned to volunteers and staff and will be revisited at the next meeting.