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Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final October 30, 2024 <br />residential development while protecting existing rural areas. This corridor holds <br />significant potential for economic growth. Still, there was concern about its impact and <br />how it could be mitigated, considering how changes might affect existing lifestyles and <br />living arrangements. Since the area was somewhat off the beaten path, it would <br />require a mix of uses and infrastructure to support residential development, including <br />commercial spaces and shopping options nearby. The development should be <br />compatible with the adjacent agricultural land and carefully integrated. The study <br />showed significant potential for residential development in that area over the next 25 <br />years. However, job creation and opportunities would also be needed. <br />Mr. Balter stated that it was not necessary to complete this by October. It could be <br />worked on gradually if preferred, considering a phased expansion or a more detailed <br />examination. It was recommended that the corridor be included in the Economic <br />Development Action Plan. While the initial suggestion was for a study, the Board <br />could decide whether to expedite it. Conducting the study now would help the Board <br />make informed decisions. There was a consensus to include the corridor in the <br />economic development study and analyze its current situation and potential <br />opportunities for future growth. <br />Commissioner Loar opposed outsourcing the new study, believing it could be <br />completed by April by staff. He stressed the public's right to access this information <br />and highlighted the need for a timely decision, stating the process had already been <br />delayed too long. Vice Chairman Flescher agreed with Commissioner Loar. <br />Recommendation 2: Addressed Interlocal Service Agreements, Mr. Balter stated that <br />the County Attorney would need to investigate and report on this recommendation at <br />a future Board meeting. <br />County Attorney Jennifer Shuler explained that Florida Statutes govern annexations, <br />enforcing rules such as contiguity and prohibiting enclaves. Interlocal Service <br />Boundary Agreements could provide flexibility with these regulations, if the County <br />and City work together on planning boundaries and service provisions. This process <br />raised important questions and required careful long-term planning. She mentioned <br />that she had contacted the Attorneys from Sebastian and Fellsmere, and would <br />facilitate a discussion. <br />Commissioner Moss believed the Interlocal Service Agreements were the most <br />important of the five recommendations. Although they may be challenging, they were <br />essential. Current annexation practices determine the USB; the agreements were <br />necessary to change it. <br />Indian River County Florida Page 7 <br />