Key West commission backs staff to pursue sargassum pilot, drops single‑scientist language

The City Commission voted to direct the city manager to pursue procurement for a sargassum removal and management pilot project, endorsing staff discussions with partners and funding sources while removing a provision that would have designated a single scientist as the exclusive lead on the work.

The debate followed a packed earlier community meeting and public comment urging urgency: "We've heard that this is an emergency health problem for our residents," the mayor said, citing lodging‑industry reports of tourism impacts. Several commissioners said nearterm action is required if the city hopes to be operational before next spring.

Legal staff warned that naming 1 private scientist as the only allowable expert would raise procurement and state‑law issues; the city attorney recommended deleting that section. The commission amended the resolution accordingly and approved sending staff to coordinate with the county, the Florida Keys College and the tourism development council to identify legal pathways and potential grant support.

Commissioners emphasized urgency and the need to evaluate permitability, cost‑benefit and the range of nearshore methods that might be permitted. Staff will return with RFQ/RFP language, partner commitments and funding options.