HomeMy WebLinkAbout12/12/2023 (3)Indian River County Florida
Indian River County Administration Complex
1801 27th Street, Building A
Vero Beach, Florida, 32960-3388
www.indianriver.gov
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Meeting Minutes - Final
Tuesday, December 12, 2023
9:00 AM
Commission Chambers
Board of County Commissioners
Susan Adams, District 1, Chairman
Joseph Flescher, District 2, Vice Chairman
Joseph H. Earman, District 3
Deryl Loar, District 4
Laura Moss, District 5
John A. Titkanich, Jr., County Administrator
William K. DeBraal, County Attorney
Ryan L. Butler, Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller
Randi Wardlow, Deputy Clerk
Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final December 12, 2023
1. CALL TO ORDER
Present: 4 - Chairman Susan Adams
Vice Chairman Joseph Flescher
Commissioner Laura Moss
Commissioner Deryl Loar
Absent: 1 - Commissioner Joe Earman
2.A. A MOMENT OF SILENT REFLECTION FOR FIRST RESPONDERS AND MEMBERS OF
THE ARMED FORCES
2.B. INVOCATION
Pastor Randy Fullerton, Glendale Baptist Church
3. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
John A. Titkanich, County Administrator
4. ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA / EMERGENCY ITEMS
Added: Item 8.P. Utility Work by Highway Contractor Agreement with FDOT
A motion was made by Commissioner Moss, seconded by Vice Chairman
Flescher, to approve the Agenda as amended. The motion carried by the
following vote:
Aye: 4 - Chairman Adams, Vice Chairman Flescher, Commissioner Moss, and
Commissioner Loar
Absent: 1 - Commissioner Earman
5. PROCLAMATIONS and PRESENTATIONS
Chairman Adams took a moment to congratulate George Streetman, former president
and general manager of Hogan & Sons, who will be inducted into the Florida Citrus
Hall of Fame in March of 2024.
5.A. 23-0973 Proclamation Honoring Robin Miller on her Retirement from Indian River County
Board of County Commissioners
Recommended Action: Recommend Read and Present
Attachments: Proclamation
The Commissioners lauded Ms. Miller's career as the Rental Assistance Program
Manager, noting her knowledge and advancements to the program earned the US
Department of Housing and Urban Development's highest designation. Staff also
spoke highly of her dedication to public service and the legacy she will leave behind.
Read and Presented by Chairman Adams
Indian River County Florida Page 1
Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final
December 12, 2023
5.B. 23-1127 Presentation of Water Quality & Potable Water Treatment Facility Evaluation to
Indian River Board of County Commissioners, IRCDUS Project ID 12.23.540
Recommended Action: Staff recommends that the Board of County Commissioners approve Tetra Tech, Inc.
to present Water Quality & Potable Water Treatment Facility Evaluation to Indian
River Board of County Commissioners
Attachments: Staff Report
Director of Utility Services Sean Lieske recalled the Board had previously approved
conducting a second water quality analysis in response to continuing customer
complaints of pipe leaks. The analysis sought to ensure the water treatment system
was performing well and meeting regulatory requirements.
James Christopher, Tetra Tech Vice President, presented the Board with the
evaluation criteria, sampling results, and various causes of copper corrosion. The
study concluded that the County's water supply was compliant with regulatory
standards and consistent with industry practices for corrosion control;
recommendations to optimize water quality were also provided.
The Board entered into discussion with Mr. Christopher and received confirmation
that the County's water was where it needed to be in terms of corrosion inhibition and
quality. Directory Lieske discussed the process to implement Tetra Tech's
optimization recommendations. Measures to prevent damage for homeowners were
discussed, and it was noted a link to the study would be on the County's website.
Presented
6. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
7. INFORMATION ITEMS FROM STAFF OR COMMISSIONERS NOT REQUIRING BOARD
ACTION
7.A. 23-1091 Administrator Approved Work Orders
Recommended action: There is no action required by the Board as this is being presented for informational
purposes only.
Attachments: Staff Report
Administrator Approved Work Orders
No Action Taken or Required
7.B. 23-1093 Florida Public Service Commission Consummating Order No.
PSC -2023 -0354 -PCO -EI, Petition for limited proceeding for recovery of
incremental storm restoration costs related to Hurricanes Ian and Nicole, by Florida
Indian River County Florida Page 2
Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final December 12, 2023
Power & Light Company, is on file for review in the Office of the Clerk to the Board
Recommended Action: Information Only
No Action Taken or Required
7.C. 23-1133 2024 Treasure Coast Regional Planning Council Comprehensive Economic
Development Strategy Committee (TCRPC CEDS) District Appointment Member
Listing
Recommended Action: Informational Only
Attachments: Staff Report
Ltr. TCRPC re: CED Appointments
Chairman Adams announced Kevin Borwick was appointed as the representative
from District 2.
No Action Taken or Required
8. CONSENT AGENDA
A motion was made by Vice Chairman Flescher, seconded by Commissioner
Moss, to approve the Consent Agenda as amended, adding Item 8.P. The motion
carried by the following vote:
Aye: 4 - Chairman Adams, Vice Chairman Flescher, Commissioner Moss, and
Commissioner Loar
Absent: 1 - Commissioner Earman
8.A. 23-1132 Request for Approval of Golf Now, LLC Services Agreement
Recommended Action: Staff respectfully recommends approval of the GolfNow Agreement and requests that
the Board authorize its Chairman to sign agreement.
Attachments: Staff Report
GolfNow, LLC Contract
Terms and Conditions
Approved staffs recommendation
8.B. 23-1074 Miscellaneous Budget Amendment 01
Recommended Action: Staff recommends the Board of County Commissioners approve the budget resolution
amending the fiscal year 2023-24 budget
Attachments: Staff Report
2023 2024 Resolution
Exhibit "A"
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Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final December 12, 2023
Approved staff's recommendation and Resolution 2023-078, amending the Fiscal
Year 2023-2024 budget.
8.C. 23-1100 Sole Source Designation Requests and Utilization Update
Recommended Action: Staff recommends the Board of County Commissioners declare the vendors and
products indicated as "new," "update," or "renew" on the list of sole source vendors
as sole source for a three-year period, and authorize the Purchasing Division to issue
purchase orders in lieu of formal bids or quotes, and as funding is approved by the
Budget Department.
Attachments: Staff Report
BCC Sole Source List
Approved staff's recommendation
8.D. 23-1106 Award of Annual Bid for Day Labor (Bid 2024022)
8.E.
8.F
Recommended Action: Staff recommends the Board make primary award of Bid 2024022 to HireQuest
Direct. Staff further recommends the Board approve the sample agreement and
authorize the Chairman to execute it after review and approval by the County
Attorney as to form and legal sufficiency and after the required certificates of
insurance have been received and approved by the Risk Manager.
Attachments: Staff Report
Sample Agreement
Approved staff's recommendation
23-1109 Proposed Interlocal Agreement Fiscal Agent Services for the State Attorney's Victim
Services Department
Recommended Action: Staff recommends that the Board of County Commissioners approve the proposed
Interlocal Agreement dedicating SLC as the fiscal agent for the State Attorney's
Victim Services Department.
Attachments: Staff Report
Proposed Interlocal Agreement
Approved staffs recommendation
23-1113 Award of RFP 2023055 for Replacement of Playgrounds at Treasure Shores, Round
Island Oceanside, and Golden Sands Beach Parks
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Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final December 12, 2023
Recommended action: Staff recommends the Board approve the final ranking of firms, award the RFP to
GameTime, and authorize the Purchasing Division to issue Purchase Orders for the
purchase and installation of the equipment.
Attachments: Staff Report
Selected Designs
Price Proposals
Approved staff's recommendation
8.G. 23-1077 Revision to Administrative Policy 908. 1, Indian River County Disposal of Indigent
Bodies (Burial and Cremation)
Recommended action: Staff recommends that the Board of County Commissioners approve the proposed
revisions to Administrative Policy 908.1 and authorize the County Administrator to
sign the same for incorporation into the County Administrative Policy Manual
Attachments: Staff Report
Revised Administrative Policy 908.1
Approved staffs recommendation
8.H. 23-1124 Renewal of Florida Power and Light (FP&L) Care to Share Agreement
Recommended action: Staff respectfully recommends the Board approve the renewal of the Care to Share
agreement with Florida Power & Light and authorize Chairman to sign the Agreement
Attachments: Staff Report
Agreement FP&L Care to Share
Approved staff's recommendation
8.1. 23-1116 Resolution Cancelling Taxes - Purchased from Go Life Holding, LLC
Recommended Action: Authorize the Chairman of the Board of County Commissioners to execute the
Resolution to cancel certain taxes upon the property purchased by or donated to
Indian River County for a public purpose, and the Clerk to send a certified copy of
the Resolution to the Tax Collector and the Property Appraiser so that any delinquent
or current taxes can be cancelled.
Attachments: Staff Report
Resolution
Warranty Deed Venetian Grove, 12th, 16th, 98th
Venetian Grove - Warranty Deed, 8th St
Payment Receipt from Tax Collector
Indian River County Florida Page 5
Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final
8.J. 23-1079
8.K.
8.L.
December 12, 2023
Approved staff's recommendation and Resolution 2023-079, cancelling certain
taxes upon publicly owned land, pursuant to Section 196.28, Florida Statutes (Go
Life Holding LLC).
Waiver of Requirement for Bids for Annual Physical Exams
Recommended Action: Staff recommends the Board waive the requirement forbids and authorize the
Purchasing Division to issue a purchase order in the amount of $ 200,495.00 to Life
Extension Clinics, Inc., DBA Life Scan Wellness Centers.
8.M.
Attachments: Staff Report
Life Scan Wellness 2024 Quote
Attachment F Fee Schedule
Approved staffs recommendation
23-1112 Florida Division of Emergency Management Hazard Mitigation Agreement D 1495
and Resolution for Dune Restoration within Beach Management Sector 4
Recommended action: Staff recommends the Board of County Commissioners approve the DEM Hazard
Mitigation Grant D1495 Agreement and Resolution and authorize the Chairman to
execute the same.
Attachments: Staff Report
Grant Form
Authorizing Resolution
Hazard Mitigation Grant Agreement
Approved staffs recommendation and Resolution 2023-080, authorizing the
Chairman's execution of Hazard Mitigation Grant D1495 with the Florida Division
of Emergency Management for Sector 4 Dune Restoration project costs.
23-1121 Florida Communities Trust Guaranty for Indian River Land Trust - 36 Acre Sebastian
Greenway Parcel
Recommended Action: Staff respectfully requests that the Board of County Commissioners consider the
request made by the Land Trust and, if approved, authorize the Chairman to execute
the Management Guaranty letter dated December 12, 2023, after review and
approval by the County Attorney.
Attachments: Staff Report
Management Guaranty Letter
St. Sebastian Greenway Map
Approved staffs recommendation
23-1058 Updated Fee Schedule for the Indian River County Public Shooting Range
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Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final
8.N
8.0.
8.P.
December 12, 2023
Recommended action: Staff respectfully recommends that the Board approve the proposed Fee Schedule as
outlined in the table above with an effective date of January 1, 2024.
Attachments: Staff Report
FWC Contract Amendment 3
Approved staff's recommendation
23-1123 Information Technology Security Upgrades, IRC -2206, Final Payment, Release of
Retainage and Change Order No. 1
Recommended action: Staff recommends approval of Change Order No. 1 and payment of Contractor's
Application for Payment No. 2 to Don Hinkle Construction, Inc. in the amount of
$3,208.38 for final payment and release of retainage.
Attachments: Staff Report
Change Order No. 1
Approved staffs recommendation
23-1126 Kimley Horn Work Order 6 (RFQ 2023015) for Services Related to Gifford
Elevated Storage Tank Rehabilitation and Structural Upgrade, IRCDUS Project ID
13.23.538
Recommended action: Staff recommends that the Board of County Commissioners approve Work Order 6
to Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc. to provide Engineering, Design, and
Construction Phase services for the Gifford Elevated Storage Tank Rehabilitation and
Structural Upgrade project in the amount of $65,396.00, and authorize the Chair to
execute the same. So long as there are no changes in the dollar amount under the
amount approved, upon adequate completion of the work set forth in the work order,
staff is directed to make final payments to Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc., after
review and approval by the Purchasing Manager and the County Attorney's Office
Attachments: Staff Report
Kimley-Horn WO 6
Approved staff's recommendation
23-1141 Utility Work by Highway Contractor Agreement with FDOT for the Adjustment of
Utility Valves for the SR -60 Resurfacing from West of CR -512 to West of 94th
Drive - Additional Funds Due
Recommended action: Staff recommends that the Board of County Commissioners approve the Florida
Department of Transportation - Utility Work by Highway Contractor Agreement, and
authorize the Chairman to execute and sign on their behalf
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Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final December 12, 2023
Attachments: Staff Report
Utility Work by Highway Contractor Agreement
Approved staffs recommendation
9. CONSTITUTIONAL OFFICERS and GOVERNMENTAL AGENCIES
9.A. 23-1110 Sheriff Eric Flowers re: Arcades in Indian River County
Recommended Action: Discussion
Attachments: Sheriff's Memo
Indian River County Sheriff Eric Flowers discussed the negative impacts of adult
arcades in the County, and his department's investigation which led to issuance of
cease and desist letters notifying these businesses they were operating illegally per the
Gaming Control Commission. Sheriff Flowers requested the Board direct the County
Attorney to draft an Ordinance stating arcades would not be tolerated in the County.
Chairman Adams sought to ensure the County would not be exposed to any legal
action; Sheriff Flowers referred to Jacksonville's Ordinance as a model.
Commissioner Moss spoke in favor of directing the County Attorney to proceed with
drafting an Ordinance.
Under discussion, the Board and staff considered ways to approach the Sheriffs
request to address complaints and associated crime related to arcades. Sheriff
Flowers noted the Gaming Commission ruled that arcades were not allowed in Indian
River County, but State regulations had been passed that prevented an outright ban.
The Commissioners discussed the Jacksonville Ordinance, which heavily regulated
arcades, and debate was had regarding whether the County's code enforcement staff
or the Sheriffs deputies would be a more expedient and effective avenue to shut
down locations which persisted. Consensus was reached to have the Sheriffs legal
counsel draft an Ordinance, with the County's input, and return before the Board to
discuss the matter further.
Sheriff Flowers was directed to return before the Board with language regarding
regulation of Arcades in the County.
10. PUBLIC ITEMS
A. PUBLIC HEARINGS
PROOF OF PUBLICATION FOR THESE HEARINGS IS ON FILE IN THE
OFFICE OF THE CLERK TO THE BOARD.
10.A.1. 23-1136 Amendment to Indian River Code Chapter 210 Tourist Development Tax
Recommended Action: Staff recommends the Board conduct the Public Hearing on the proposed
ordinance amendment, take testimony from interested parties, approve the
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Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final December 12, 2023
proposed amendment repealing the "sixth cent" of Tourist Tax, but retain the
current allocation of funds, and authorize the Chairman to execute the amendment
on behalf of the Board.
Attachments: Staff Report
Proposed Ordinance Amendment
County Attorney Bill DeBraal recalled that on August 29, 2023, the Board
approved an ordinance amendment which added an additional cent to the
County's Tourist Development Tax, earmarked for beach renourishment. The
County was subsequently informed that the State had amended requirements
regarding local Tourist Taxes to require increases be approved via referendum at
a general election. The ordinance before the Board would repeal the additional
cent passed in August, and the item would return for a vote via referendum at the
November 2024 general election.
The Chairman opened the public hearing for comments.
Ben Earman, Director of Tourism Marketing with Visit Indian River County,
spoke in favor of the increase to the Tourist Tax which would preserve the
County's beaches.
There being no further comments, the Chairman closed the public hearing.
Attorney DeBraal noted the deadline to submit the referendum for the November
election ballot was August 15, 2024, and staff would return before the Board with
the final language for it.
A motion was made by Vice Chairman Flescher, seconded by Commissioner
Loar, to approve staffs recommendations and to adopt Ordinance 2023-018,
amending Section 210.01 (Taxing District and Levy) and Section 210.03
(Authorized Uses of Revenue) of Chapter 210 (Tourist Development Tax) of the
Code of Indian River County, Florida to reallocate the authorized uses of the
tourist development tax revenue; and providing for codification, severability,
repeal of conflicting provisions, and an effective date. The motion carried by
the following vote:
Aye: 4 - Chairman Adams, Vice Chairman Flescher, Commissioner Moss, and
Commissioner Loar
Absent: 1 - Commissioner Earman
10.A.2. 23-1095 2023 Indian River County Amended Wind Speeds Maps
Recommended Action: Staff recommends that the Board of County Commissioners adopt the proposed
ordinance amending Section 401.07 of the Code of Indian River County,
approving the amended Wind Speeds Risk Maps.
Indian River County Florida Page 9
Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final December 12, 2023
Attachments: Staff Report
Current — Exhibit 1 Wind Speeds Risk Categories 1-3 Map
Current — Exhibit 2 Wind Speeds Risk Category 4 Map
New — Exhibit 1 Wind Speeds Risk Categories 1-3 Map
New — Exhibit 2 Wind Speeds Risk Category 4 Map
Proposed Ordinance
[Clerk Note: This Item was heard following the recess for the Item 12.D.1.,
Executive Session]
Andy Sobczak, Planning and Development Services Director, appeared before
the Board to present a recommended update to the Florida Building Code (FBC)
Wind Speeds Risk Maps. He noted the boundaries for the wind speed lines were
locally determined, and also explained the risk categories, scaled one (1) through
four (4), for different structures. Maps were displayed showing I-95 as the
County's threshold for 140 mph wind speed risk in categories 1, 2, and 3, and
compared that with maps showing the State's new boundary along CR 512 to the
west. Staff recommended updating the wind speed map boundaries in the
County's code to align with the State's map.
Chairman Adams entered into discussion with the County's Building Official, Scott
McAdam, regarding the ramifications of moving the boundary west, and she
expressed concern for potentially increasing the cost of construction in a low
income area. Mr. McAdam did not believe the change would affect insurance
rates, as with flood zone boundaries. Commissioner Moss received confirmation
that the State's recommendations were more than three years old. County
Administrator John Titkanich received confirmation adherence to codes was not
retroactively required, however, Mr. McAdam declined to speculate how
insurance companies would react. Vice Chairman Flescher discussed the impact
to the housing market.
The Chairman opened the public hearing for comments. There being none, the
Chairman closed the public hearing.
Chairman Adams expressed concern for the timing and financial impact of the
changes, while acknowledging the increased safety. Discussion ensued with an
exploration of the impact to future development, especially in the area surrounding
the future Oslo/I-95 interchange. Opinions expressed included the benefits of
having higher standards in place before anticipated new construction, mitigating
insurance premiums for underbuilt structures, hardening new construction against
wind damage, and the benefit of aligning the County with the State's standards.
Director Sobczak discussed his department's methods to disseminate the
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Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final December 12, 2023
information to the building community, which included meeting directly with
builders.
A motion was made by Commissioner Loar, seconded by Vice Chairman
Flescher, to adopt Ordinance 2024-019, amending Section 401.07 (the Indian
River County Wind Borne Debris Region and Basic Wind Speed Map) of Part I
(Standard Codes Generally) of Chapter 401 (Building Codes) of the Code of
Indian River County, to replace the existing wind speed map with two
updated wind speed maps; and providing for codification; severability;
conflict of ordinances; and effective date of the ordinance. The motion
carried by the following vote:
Aye: 3 - Vice Chairman Flescher, Commissioner Moss, and Commissioner Loar
Nay: 1 - Chairman Adams
Absent: 1 - Commissioner Earman
B. PUBLIC DISCUSSION ITEMS
10.B.1. 23-1120 Request to Speak from D. Remole re: Request for a Traffic Light at the
Intersection of 58th Ave and 16th St.
Attachments: Request to speak D.Remole
Darrell Remole appeared before the Board to discuss a request for a traffic light
at the intersection of 58th Avenue and 16th Street which had been denied based
on a survey done by the County. Mr. Remole disagreed with the finding and took
issue with a traffic light installation at the less -busy intersection of 58th Avenue
and 69th Street. He discussed the danger and recent accidents at the 16th Street
intersection.
Vice Chairman Flescher discussed the County's process to assess and install
traffic lights, and noted the factors for those choices may not be obvious to the
public.
Chairman Adams confirmed for Mr. Remole that the Board had received the
letter and petition from the residents of the Segovia Lakes subdivision requesting a
traffic light at the 58th Avenue and 16th Street intersection.
No Action Taken or Required
10.B.2. 23-1138 Request to Speak T.Kenny re: CSAC
Recommended Action: No Action Required
Attachments: Public Discussion Request T.Kenny
Thomas Kenny, Moms for Liberty, addressed the Board with his concerns
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Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final December 12, 2023
regarding accounting oversight for the Children's Services Advisory Committee
(CSAC). Mr. Kenny explained his rationale for specifically taking issue with
CSAC funds awarded to the Learning Alliance; the money was used to support
literacy programs in the County's public schools.
Chairman Adams noted the County funded programs, not agencies, and referred
him to the new guidelines CSAC was issuing for the process of awarding money.
Commissioner Moss invited Mr. Kenny to the next CSAC meeting and offered to
speak with him regarding his concerns.
No Action Taken or Required
C. PUBLIC NOTICE ITEMS
11. COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR MATTERS
I I.A. 23-1039 American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 - Proposed Spending Plan Revisions
Recommended Action: Staff recommends that the Board consider the proposed spending plan (see
attachment) as further detailed above totaling $31,063,168, consider any changes,
and approve the plan with any amendments as needed. Staff further recommends that
the Board authorize the Chair to execute the City of Fellsmere Broadband Agreement
and any agreements with the funding partners that is consistent with our Federal
requirements.
Attachments: Staff Report
ARP Proposed Spending Plan
City of Fellsmere Broadband Agreement
County Administrator John Titkanich referred to staffs memo dated November 30,
2023, in presenting the proposed spending plan revisions for the County's $31 million
share of the American Rescue Plan (ARP) funds. Descriptions of projects were given
for each of the spending categories: Response to the Public Health Emergency
(COVID), Workers Performing Essential Work, Water/Sewer or Broadband
Infrastructure, and Constitutional Officer Expenses.
A motion was made by Vice Chairman Flescher, seconded by Chairman Adams,
to approve staffs recommendation The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 4 - Chairman Adams, Vice Chairman Flescher, Commissioner Moss, and
Commissioner Loar
Absent: 1 - Commissioner Earman
12. DEPARTMENTAL MATTERS
A. Community Services
B. Emergency Services
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Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final
C. Human Resources
D. Information Technology
12.D.1. 23-1075
E. Natural Resources
TIME CERTAIN 10:30 am -- Executive Session
December 12, 2023
County Attorney Bill DeBraal read into the record the opening remarks of the
Attorney -Client Session scheduled for 10:30 am. The estimated time of the closed
Attorney -Client Session was 60 minutes. Those in attendance were Susan Adams
(Chairman), Joseph E. Flescher (Vice Chairman), Commissioners Joseph
Ear -man, Deryl Loar and Laura Moss. Also in attendance were County Attorney
Bill DeBraal, County Administrator John Titkanich, Information Technology
Director Dan Russell, and a certified court reporter.
The Board reconvened in the Chambers at 11:20 am, and the Chairman closed
the Attorney -Client Session. The County Commission meeting resumed with Item
10.A.2.
No Action Taken or Required
F. Office of Management and Budget
G. Parks, Recreation, and Conservation
12.G.1. 23-1057 Environmental Lands Acquisition Panel (ELAP) Recommendation for Finalization
of Draft Environmental Lands Program (ELP) Guide
Recommended Action: Staff respectfully recommends that the Board of County Commissioners review
the proposed recommendations from the ELAP for the ELP Guide, and provide
staff with their comments and direction for finalization of the document.
Attachments: Staff Report
Full ELPG with ELAP Revisions 12.05.23
ELPG with ELAP Revisions TRACK CHGS
Parks, Recreation and Conservation Director Beth Powell opened the
presentation with an overview of the County's Conservation Lands Program, then
discussed the creation of the Environmental Lands Program (ELP) Guide which
provided a framework for the Environmental Land Acquisition Panel (ELAP) to
follow. Conservation Lands Manager Wendy Swindell then reviewed the changes
included in the revised ELP. She noted the bulk of the revisions were made to the
land acquisition process/procedures, and land evaluation considerations.
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Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final December 12, 2023
Under discussion with Commissioner Moss, Ms. Swindell informed of ELAP's
evaluation prioritization criteria; safeguards to protecting land; minimizing public
impact in conservation areas; and finding the best and highest use for the land.
Ms. Swindell informed the ELAP had issued an RFP for an acquisition consultant,
and the Panel's recommendation would be brought before the Board for
approval. Vice Chairman Flescher thanked all who served on the ELAP.
A motion was made by Vice Chairman Flescher, seconded by Commissioner
Moss, to approve staffs recommendation. The motion carried by the
following vote:
Aye: 4 - Chairman Adams, Vice Chairman Flescher, Commissioner Moss, and
Commissioner Loar
Absent: 1 - Commissioner Earman
H. Planning and Development Services
1. Public Works
J. Utilities Services
13. COUNTY ATTORNEY MATTERS
13.A. 23-1111 Charging Criminal Defendants Additional Fees
Recommended Action: Discuss and decide whether the Board wishes to direct staff to amend the code in
order to charge for additional court costs in criminal cases.
Attachments: Staff Report
County Attorney Bill DeBraal explained that Florida Statutes allowed counties to
charge $65 in court fees to a defendant found guilty of a crime; the funds were
allocated to programs for the community. Recently, the State affirmed the practice of
charging defendants a $65 court fee for each count of a crime that returned a guilty
verdict. It was estimated the collected fees could bring in an additional $300,000 for
community programs, if the board chose to amend the County's code. Attorney
DeBraal warned that the 19th Circuit's Public Defender would likely challenge this
practice.
Vice Chairman Flescher spoke in favor of the change, and acknowledged the Court
may not collect all the fees assessed.
A motion was made by Commissioner Loar, seconded by Vice Chairman
Flescher, to approve directing staff to amend the Code in order to charge for
additional court costs in criminal cases. The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 4 - Chairman Adams, Vice Chairman Flescher, Commissioner Moss, and
Commissioner Loar
Absent: 1 - Commissioner Earman
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Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final December 12, 2023
U.B. 23-1115 Approval of Opioid Settlement Proceeds
Recommended Action: The County Attorney's Office recommends that the Indian River County Board of
County Commissioners discuss the recommended allotments made by the Public
Safety Council for Criminal Justice, Mental Health and Substance Abuse and adopt
the authorizing Resolution and authorize the Chairman to execute the Resolution on
behalf of the Board.
Attachments: Staff Report
Resolution
Schedules A and B from MOU with AG
County Attorney Bill DeBraal informed the County would receive approximately $1.2
million in fiscal year 2023-24 from Opioid Settlement proceeds to be used for opioid
use disorder treatment programs. The funds would be distributed, at the Board's
direction, by the Southeast Florida Behavioral Health Network (Southeast). In
November 2023, the Board -created Public Safety Council for Criminal Justice,
Mental Health and Substance Abuse (Council) heard presentations from groups
requesting funds and recommended awarding the following organizations: Indian River
County Sheriff, Substance Awareness Center, IRC Mental Health Collaborative, 19th
Judicial Circuit Drug Court, and the Treasure Coast Homeless Council. Attorney
DeBraal requested the Board's consideration of the recommendations.
Chairman Adams questioned accountability, allocations and expressed concern over
the seeming lack of a master plan for these funds over the next 18 years. Discussion
ensued between the Board and Attorney DeBraal regarding allocations, measurable
outcomes, and the need to ramp -up programs before evaluating them. The Chairman
continued to express the need for an over -arching plan, and suggested giving funds to
already -established programs.
Vice Chairman Flescher, a member of the Council, discussed the justice system
process drug addicts faced, the need to build dedicated treatment beds, and the
presentations made before the Council which led to the decisions. In response to the
Chairman's and Commissioner Loar's discomfort with limited information, a
suggestion was made to have the awarded agencies appear before the Board with a
short version of their presentations. It was noted there was a sense of urgency to start
creating spaces to help treat addicts who would not otherwise receive assistance
through the criminal justice system.
Consensus was reached to table the item until the January 9, 2024 Board meeting
when the five (5) agencies would appear before the Board to present their plans for
the funds. Staff was requested to provide the Commissioners with background
information ahead of the next meeting.
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Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final December 12, 2023
Miranda Swanson, Indian River County Health Officer, agreed with the need for a
structured plan and made a plea on behalf of families struggling with affects of opioid
addiction whose only path was through the jail system. She added the Health
Department's support for the Item.
Consensus was reached to table the Item and to bring it back to the Board at
their next meeting on January 9, 2024, where the five (5) organizations chosen to
receive funds would present their plans before the Board.
13.C. 23-1118 Authorization to proceed with foreclosures on Code enforcement case number
2017040073 (Ledford)
Recommended Action: Staff recommends the Board authorize staff to move forward with outside counsel in
the filing of foreclosure on the above named code enforcement cases.
Attachments: Staff Report
Ledford Order Imposing Fine
I crlfnrrl naafi
Deputy County Attorney Susan Prado brought forward a proposal for foreclosure of
a property at 136 15th Street SW. Attorney Prado detailed the code violations which
stretched back to 2017, and noted the accumulated fines of $229,900 far outweighed
the $30,000 assessed value of the property. She recommended proceeding with
foreclosure, and estimated $7,000 in legal fees.
Chairman Adams agreed it was important to clean up the property and move
forward.
A motion was made by Commissioner Loar, seconded by Vice Chairman
Flescher, to approve staff's recommendation. The motion carried by the following
vote:
Aye: 4 - Chairman Adams, Vice Chairman Flescher, Commissioner Moss, and
Commissioner Loar
Absent: 1 - Commissioner Earman
The Chairman called for a recess at 1:08 p.m., and reconvened the meeting at 1:14
p.m. with all members present, except Commissioner Earman who was absent.
13.D. 23-1134 PFAS Class Action Settlement; In Re: Aqueous Film Forming Foams Product
Liability Litigation
Recommended Action: The County Attorney's Office recommends the BOCC resolve to opt -in to the class
action lawsuit because we would fall into class members. The County Public Water
Systems immediately complete baseline testing and submit results on the relevant
Claims Forms, the Claimant Information Form, as well as the Public Water System
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Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final December 12, 2023
Settlement Claims Form to the Claims Administrator. The County Attorney's Office
also recommends it consider taking steps to eliminate PFAS from our public drinking
water.
Attachments: Staff Report
Keith Jackman, Assistant County Attorney, informed the Board of two (2)
class-action lawsuit settlements surrounding forever -chemicals known as PFAS. He
provided information about PFAS and their ill-effects on health before describing the
two settlements, and the testing needed to file a claim. Mr. Jackman made mention of
the County's nano -filtration systems in place for PFAS, and warned of expected EPA
(Environmental Protection Agency) regulations.
Utility Services Director Sean Lieske provided additional information on the County's
filtration systems and the extremely low levels of PFAS detected in the drinking water
supply; he noted settlement funds would be used to enhance the County's efforts.
Director Lieske also discussed the EPA's focus on the issue, and that the additional
testing would leave the County well-positioned to address any regulation.
Chairman Adams received confirmation the lawsuits' opt -out deadlines had passed,
and briefly reviewed staffs recommendations.
A motion was made by Vice Chairman Flescher, seconded by Chairman Adams,
to approve staffs recommendation. The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 4 - Chairman Adams, Vice Chairman Flescher, Commissioner Moss, and
Commissioner Loar
Absent: 1 - Commissioner Earman
13.E. 23-1135 Developer's Agreement Between Mandala Village, LLC and Indian River County
Recommended Action: Staff recommends the Board approve the Developer's Agreement with Mandala
Village LLC and authorize the Chairman to execute it on behalf of the Board.
Attachments: Staff Report
Aerial photo
Comparison of Developer's Agreements
Proposed Developer's Agreement
County Attorney Bill DeBraal brought forward the Developer's Agreement between
Mandala Village, LLC and the County to construct certain improvements as required
in the Planned Development Traditional Neighborhood Design rezoning. Attorney
DeBraal displayed a map as he detailed the improvements: dedication of right-of-way
(ROW) along the 53rd Street border; paving for 53rd Street; turn lane improvements;
drainage; and ROW for 58th Avenue between 49th Street and 57th Street. He added
there was one change to the agreement which extended the deadline for ROW
dedication from 60 days to 90 days.
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Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final December 12, 2023
Commissioner Moss mentioned the previously -raised concerns regarding traffic from
the planned hotel. Attorney DeBraal informed staff had reviewed the plan and
concluded that the two-lane road would be sufficient to handle all traffic from the
development. Vice Chairman Flescher noted the agreement would allow for proper
handling of traffic, and was unrelated to his previous disapproval of the project.
A motion was made by Vice Chairman Flescher, seconded by Commissioner
Loar, to approve staffs recommendation. The motion carried by the following
vote:
Aye: 4 - Chairman Adams, Vice Chairman Flescher, Commissioner Moss, and
Commissioner Loar
Absent: 1 - Commissioner Earman
14. COMMISSIONERS MATTERS
A. Commissioner Susan Adams, Chairman
B. Commissioner Joseph E. Flescher, Vice Chairman
C. Commissioner Joseph H. Earman
D. Commissioner Deryl Loar
E. Commissioner Laura Moss
15. SPECIAL DISTRICTS AND BOARDS
A. Emergency Services District
B. Solid Waste Disposal District
The Board reconvened as the Board of Commissioners of the Solid Waste
Disposal District. Those minutes will be approved under the next Solid Waste
Disposal District meeting.
15.B.1. 23-1128 Amendment Work Order No. 18 to Geosyntec for Segment 3, Cell 3 Site
Preparations
Recommended Action: Solid Waste Disposal District staff recommends that its Board approves and
authorizes the Chairman to sign Amendment No. 1 to Work Order No. 18
authorizing Geosyntec to provide engineering services for a not to exceed fee of
$39,783.73
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Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final
Attachments: Staff Report
WO 18 Amendment 1
Budget Estimate Geosyntec
Segment 3 Cell 3 Site Preparation Amendment 1
There was no discussion regarding this item.
December 12, 2023
A motion was made by Vice Chairman Flescher, seconded by Chairman
Adams, to approve staff's recommendation. The motion carried by the
following vote:
Aye: 4 - Chairman Adams, Vice Chairman Flescher, Commissioner Moss, and
Commissioner Loar
Absent: 1 - Commissioner Earman
15.13.2. 23-1129 Work Order No. 7 to Kimley-Horn for the Solid Waste Disposal District Annual
Financial Reports
Recommended Action: Solid Waste Disposal District (SWDD) staff recommends that its Board approve
Work Order No. 7 with Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc. for $75,050 to
provide engineering services related to the SWDD Annual Financial Reports; and
authorize the Chairman to execute the same, as presented
Attachments: Staff Report
Work Order No. 7 - KHA
There was no discussion regarding this item.
A motion was made by Vice Chairman Flescher, seconded by Chairman
Adams, to approve staffs recommendation. The motion carried by the
following vote:
Aye: 4 - Chairman Adams, Vice Chairman Flescher, Commissioner Moss, and
Commissioner Loar
Absent: 1 - Commissioner Earman
15.B.3. 23-1130 Authorization to provide LFG Easements on the Landfill Property
Recommended Action: Solid Waste Disposal District (SWDD) staff recommends that its Board approve:
a) Approve the fifty -foot -wide temporary LFG construction easement and grant
Nopetro Eco District, LLC the non-exclusive easement in accordance with the
easement drawings. b) Approve the twenty -foot -wide sub -lateral "C-5" canal
crossing LFG easement and grant Nopetro Eco District, LLC the non-exclusive
easement in accordance with the easement drawings. c) Approve the
twenty -foot -wide LFG easement and grant Nopetro Eco District, LLC the
non-exclusive easement in accordance with the easement drawings. d) Direct the
County Attorney's Office to finalize the legal documents to record the approved
non-exclusive easements. e) Authorize the Chairman to execute the final legal
documents to effectuate the granting of the approved non-exclusive easements.
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Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final December 12, 2023
Attachments: Staff Report
50 -Foot Wide Temporary Easement
20 -Foot Wide Sub -Lateral C-5 Canal Easement
20 -Foot Wide Sub -Lateral LFG Easement
Environmental Assessment
[Clerk Note: This item was heard following Item 13. B.]
Himanshu Mehta, Solid Waste Disposal District (SWDD) Managing Director,
explained the requested easements were needed to construct, install, and maintain
landfill gas (LFG) lines between the SWDD landfill and the Nopetro Eco District's
(NED) planned construction of a Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) processing
facility. Because the NED recently acquired an alternate parcel of land for the
RNG facility, new easements were required to fulfill the SWDD's obligation to the
project.
Nopetro's CEO, Jorge Herrera, presented an update to the RNG plant
development which included a timeline with expected LFG commencement in
January 2025.
Chairman Adams received confirmation that an amendment to NED's agreement
with the County to extend the original milestones by 90 days was in progress.
County Attorney Bill DeBraal received information regarding additional items that
were being negotiated under the forthcoming amendment.
A motion was made by Vice Chairman Flescher, seconded by Commissioner
Loar, to approve staff's recommendation. The motion carried by the following
vote:
Aye: 4 - Chairman Adams, Vice Chairman Flescher, Commissioner Moss, and
Commissioner Loar
Absent: 1 - Commissioner Earman
C. Environmental Control Board
16. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, the Chairman adjourned the meeting at 1:39 p.m.
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Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes — Final December 12, 2023
ATTEST:
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Ryan L. Butler
Clerk of Circuit Court and Comptroller
By:
Deputy Clerk
BCC/RW/2023 Minutes
Approved: February 6 , 2024
Indian River County Florida Page 21