Parking fees and the rising issue of elderly homelessness took center stage at the St. Augustine City Commission meeting on June 23, 2025. Commissioner Kolady's call for a review of parking fees sparked a discussion about the impact of recent tourism trends on local businesses, particularly short-term rentals.

Commissioner Gerez noted that many rental properties are struggling, with some owners even putting their homes up for sale. "The hotels that we've added and the reduction in some of the tourism we've had lately has caused some of them to second think about their investments," he stated, highlighting the challenges faced by the rental market.

In a poignant moment, Gerez also addressed the growing concern of elderly homelessness, emphasizing that many elderly couples are at risk of losing their homes after the loss of a spouse. "It's just something that we ought to be really watching out for," he urged, commending local organizations for their efforts to support those in need.

The meeting also celebrated local achievements, including the AMP venue, which ranked second in the nation for ticket sales among similar venues, and Anastasia State Park, recognized as one of the best state park beaches by USA Today. These accolades underscore the city's rich cultural and environmental assets.

As discussions on parking and homelessness continue, the commission remains focused on creating effective mobility plans and addressing the needs of vulnerable populations in the community.