Task force backs exploring pollinator-friendly plantings and apprenticeship partnerships

Dave (S5) proposed adding butterfly- and pollinator-friendly plants in village parks and swales, saying Vogel Park and other public spaces lack host plants despite butterfly murals. "It's a great source of... food," he said, describing milkweed at Bogle Park and urging a local planting strategy rather than one-off plantings that saltwater would kill.

Members suggested getting a custom plant list from Urban Paradise Guild (UPG), involving a climate apprenticeship program (AmeriCorps-funded) for planting and public education, and avoiding FDOT right-of-way locations like the causeway to speed approvals. Staff agreed to produce a recommended plant list, estimate costs and scope a resident-apprentice planting event. The group flagged salt tolerance and ongoing stormwater impacts as key design constraints.