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Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final July 11, 2023 PACE loans to its residents, but no agreements had been made with the City of Vero Beach, the Town of Indian River Shores, the Town of Orchid, and the City of Sebastian. In another instance, despite lacking an Interlocal Agreement with the County Tax Collector, the Florida PACE Funding Agency (FPFA) had contracted over 18 PACE improvements in the Unincorporated County. He gave two examples of how the PACE program could negatively affect taxpayers' tax liability. He mentioned that Sarasota, Pasco, Palm Beach, and Pinellas Counties had either terminated existing Interlocal agreements or filed lawsuits against FPFA. He advised homeowners to explore all options when seeking home improvement financing and to carefully review all paperwork before signing. Attorney Reingold acknowledged the Board's concerns regarding all PACE programs, referencing an email he received, which stated that other PACE entities were not part of this litigation. He appreciated those PACE entities that did not take a bullying approach like the FPFA. Attorney Reingold mentioned that Carole Jean Jordan, Wesley Davis, and the Florida Department of Revenue had received a letter from the FPFA, and their website address was www.floridaPACE.gov, which indicated that they were masquerading as a governmental entity. He suggested a public records request to determine whom the FPFA was targeting. Ms. Jordan stated that it was imperative that citizens exercised caution and understood the Board's repeated opposition to it. Unfortunately, imposing a lien on the tax roll would be necessary for those who could not pay those loans. This could lead to them losing their homes, which would be an injustice. Commissioner Flescher stated it was important to note that the Board had taken a unanimous stance against the PACE program. Unfortunately, some unscrupulous individuals had taken advantage of the vulnerabilities of the County's citizens and offered enticing deals, which could be inappropriate and harmful to the community. He emphasized that the Board did not support this program in any way, shape, or form. He thanked Ms. Jordan and Mr. Davis for taking a strong stand in protecting the community. Chairman Earman agreed with Commissioner Flescher. Unfortunately, many seniors would be unprepared for the shock of their first statement. He stated that PACE seemed brazen and sharp -toothed and was shocked at their audacity. Commissioner Moss echoed Chairman Earman's remarks. Jim Kordiak, resident, stated he wholly supported any effort the Board chose to pursue. No Action Taken or Required Indian River County Florida Page 14