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Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final September 9, 2025 Richard Baker from the Pelican Island Audubon Society emphasized the critical connection between drinking water and groundwater, noting that 65% of the County's drinking water was used for lawns, increasing to 88% in summer due to shallow -rooted sod. He advocated replacing sod with native ground covers that require less water and warned of a potential drinking water crisis. Mr. Baker suggested using reclaimed water and reducing sod regulations coverage from 50% to 15% of the landscape area to promote native plant growth, essential for local wildlife. He also emphasized the importance of planting native trees rather than palm trees to enhance ecological benefits. He urged that these ideas be incorporated into the Plan, prioritizing trees and water for the community's future. In response to Mr. Baker's comments, Commissioner Moss referenced Policy 3.3, which required new developments to incorporate at least 50% water -conserving materials. She noted a change from the term "Xeriscape" to "Florida Native Plantings" in the Landscape Ordinance and sought clarification on the meaning of this update. Commissioner Adams responded that both terms refer to the same concept of using native plants for low water consumption. Stormwater Sub -Element Chip Landers sought information regarding Stormwater Policy 1.2, specifically about the figures'6' and '18' inches above flood level that had been removed. He asked whether he would still receive a discount on flood insurance for building above certain levels. Mr. Sweeney responded that the Freeboard requirements would be included in the LDRs, as indicated in the opening sentence, which states "any required appropriate Freeboard protection". He emphasized the importance of avoiding specific freeboard requirements in the plan. Currently, for example, Zone AE mandates a minimum freeboard of 6 feet, whereas Zone A requires a freeboard of 18 feet above the road's crown. This approach enables a more flexible policy that accommodates a range of sources. Mr. Landers then asked if this was acceptable to the organizations that establish credits for flood insurance, expressing concern that this would become a significant factor. Public Works Director Addie Javed stated that his department reviewed base flood elevation requirements, with a specific focus on the 100 -year flood elevation standards for new developments. Additionally, for existing developments, staff worked to tighten floodplain regulations in response to ongoing concerns about Indian River County, Florida Page 25