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Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final September 10, 2024 ,attachments: Reg uest-to-SPeak J.Idlette Joe Idlette III, President of the Progressive Civic League of Gifford, expressed gratitude to the Gifford community for its support. He mentioned that the community had worked closely with the County on the Neighborhood Plan, which was approved in 2002. The plan was later updated in 2014, with the active involvement of the Progressive Civic League of Gifford. Mr. Idlette addressed the outstanding action items from the 2014 plan in detail. He stated he had met with County Administrator John Titkanich twice to discuss the neighborhood plan. However, Administrator Titkanich seemed disinterested and mentioned that he and his assistant would investigate, but a response was never received. He also mentioned a letter he wrote to Administrator Titkanich and had copied to each Commissioner, expressing the community's concerns about the County's neglect in starting and completing projects outlined in the plan. He sought assistance in moving these projects forward. Freddie Woolfork, representing the Gifford Youth Achievement Center (GYAC), wanted to handle matters diplomatically. He conveyed a sense of feeling overlooked and emphasized the importance of rekindling a spirit of mutual care. Mr. Woolfork stressed the significance of the ABC approach: A) obtaining bids and strategic planning for projects, B) adhering to a budget, and C) ensuring project completion. He underscored the Gifford community's aspiration for fairness and a collaborative partnership with the County. Anthony "Tony" Brown, President of the Indian River County National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), expressed that the recent meeting with Administrator Titkanich and Assistant Administrator Nancy Bundt left them feeling unheard and overlooked. He mentioned that the situation dated back to 2002, and the tension during the 2013 Civic League meeting. He stated that the community was considering legal action in response to the ongoing frustration with the situation. Mr. Brown shared his concerns about the impact on Gifford's under -resourced community of color, he expressed a desire to address the problem. He discussed the importance of holding the staff accountable for their commitments. Vice Chairman Flescher expressed his appreciation for every word spoken. He stated that staff had been committed to this plan when it was originally developed, designed, and revisited. However, the staff initially dedicated to this plan were no longer here. Commissioner Flescher discussed the concerns raised and assured that adjustments would be made to address those concerns. Indian River County Florida Page 15