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Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final April 5, 2022 Vice Chairman Earman noted that Indian River County was responsible for 24% of the anticipated $16 to $20 million total cost and estimated the project would take three (3) years to reach execution. He also advised there was an initial funding request of $200,000 for the County's portion of a Planning and Development study. The Vice Chairman discussed the need to start budgeting, possible cost-saving measures, and requested staff to draft a Resolution of Participation to send to State Senator Gayle Harrell who was helping to coordinate the project. Dr. Patricia Aronica, Medical Examiner for the 19th District, appeared before the Board to support the need for a new office to replace the too small, ill-equipped, and outdated current location. Commissioner Flescher commended Dr. Aronica's dedication and foresight. Commissioner Adams received confirmation that the County's estimated contribution would be $5 million, the estimated timeline was three years to reach the start of construction, and that the $200,000 study was an additional cost. County Administrator Jason Brown discussed possible funding assistance opportunities, and shared concerns for the costs. Chairman O'Bryan suggested setting aside funds immediately in anticipation of the County's obligation. Discussion continued with Commissioner Moss receiving confirmation from County Attorney Dylan Reingold that Florida Statutes assigned the four counties the responsibility for construction costs, and that grant opportunities would be pursued. County Administrator Brown confirmed that public building impact fees could not be used because the building would be located outside of the County; he stated he would investigate using infrastructure sales tax funds. Chairman O'Bryan suggested pursuing an amendment to the law to utilize impact fee funds to cover the impact of growth. Vice Chairman Earman discussed agreements among the counties, promised to confirm details of the costs, and reiterated the need for a Resolution of Participation. Commissioner Moss received confirmation from Attorney Reingold that he would reach out to the other counties and state representatives to coordinate the language in the Resolution. Commissioner Flescher commended Senator Harrell's commitment to this project. A motion was made by Vice Chairman Earman, seconded by Commissioner Flescher, to direct staff to 1) create a Resolution of Participation for the new Medical Examiner's Office and bring it back before the Board for approval; and 2) research amending state statutes to allow the use of Building Impact Fees to pay for the required new Medical Examiner's Office. The motion carried by the following vote: Indian River County Florida Page 15