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Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final August 17, 2021 E. Commissioner Laura Moss The Chairman called a recess at 3:36 p.m., and reconvened the meeting at 3:46 p.m. with all members present. 14.E.1. 21-0791 IRC Administration Complex - Native Plant Garden Project Recommended Action: Discussion Attachments: Commissioner's Memorandum Commissioner Laura Moss introduced the Native Plant Garden presentation, and thanked the additional non-profit organizations which added their support. Pelican Island Audubon Society president Dr. Richard Baker displayed slides to provide an overview of the project and the landscape designer's credentials. Stephanie Dunn, Landscape Architect, Cadence, appeared via Zoom to walk the Board through the rationale and details of her firm's plan for the garden installation on the east side of County Administration Building A. Under discussion, the Commissioners expressed displeasure that the project had increased in scope and size after the Board had provided specific parameters at the May 18, 2021 meeting. The Board also questioned why staff was not presenting the design, as agreement had been reached that Commissioners should refrain from being involved in the development process. The Board clarified with Dr. Baker their expectations regarding the scope, management, and maintenance of the project. Director of Public Works Rich Szpyrka confirmed receiving a request for irrigation plans, but denied having seen the expanded design that was presented. [Clerk's note: Commissioner Adams was excused from the meeting at 4:15 p.m.] Under further discussion with Ms. Dunn, agreement was reached to scale back the size of the garden and to eliminate some features such as the seating area. Ms. Dunn also agreed to include a 5 foot area between the existing hedges and the new plantings for maintenance, as requested by Director Szpyrka. Indian River County Florida Page 29