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Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final December 3, 2024 12.A. 24-0995 City of Vero Beach - Request for County Funding for Humiston Boardwalk Recommended action: Staff is requesting the Board of County Commissioners review the information contained herein and the attachments and provide staff direction. Attachments: CAI COVB Request for Funding Humiston Boardwalk COVB 2024 11-19 John Titkanich Humiston Boardwalk COVB Humiston Boardwalk Alternatives 2024 11-19 COVB Boardwalk Alternatives Aug 14 2024 COVB June 5 2024 CC Agenda Item County Administrator John Titkanich discussed the City of Vero Beach's (the City) plans to rebuild the Humiston Boardwalk, which was damaged by Hurricane Nicole. The City initially sought almost $2 million from Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) but only received $83,095 due to the boardwalk's age. The City has appealed for more funds and aimed to begin construction by November 1, 2025, after the sea turtle nesting season. They were also seeking additional funding from the Tourist Development Tax (TDT), though this process was complicated by County policy. Titkanich emphasized the boardwalk's popularity and the need for funding to align with Florida statutes. He noted that the Tourist Development Council (TDC) must review any TDT revenue requests. The City has proposed three construction options: 1) a concrete boardwalk at the dune's base, 2) a wooden boardwalk at the back, or 3) a concrete sidewalk at the back, and plans to add amenities such as pavilions and a lifeguard tower, which could raise costs significantly and may not comply with current County Ordinances. The Board, staff, and City Manager Monte Falls discussed various proposals, including requests for a lifeguard pavilion estimated at $150,000 to $250,000. With the existing structure deteriorating, funding options were necessary to advance the sidewalk project while adhering to FEMA and Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) guidelines. Concerns arose regarding the historical significance of the sidewalk versus needed upgrades, alongside potential delays from turtle season. If appeals to FEMA were unsuccessful, there could be a funding shortfall of $626,000, with a successful appeal still requiring an additional $306,000. Mr. Falls stated that the area was economically vibrant but faced stagnant population growth. Despite public preference for other options, the City Council approved option 3 for a sidewalk project. Confusion arose over changes to the lifeguard tower plans, which now included shade pavilions. Commissioner Adams highlighted the County's diverse attractions, supporting the cities in the north and west parts of the County, and sought a collaborative approach Indian River County, Florida Page 18