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HomeMy WebLinkAbout03/25/2025 (2)Indian River County, Florida Indian River County Administration Complex 1801 27th Street Vero Beach, Florida 32960 indianriver.gov �lORIO�' Meeting Minutes - Final Tuesday, March 25, 2025 9:00 AM Commission Chambers Board of County Commissioners Joseph Flescher, District 2, Chairman Deryl Loar, District 4, Vice Chairman Susan Adams, District 1 Joseph H. Earman, District 3 Laura Moss, District 5 John A. Titkanich, Jr., County Administrator Jennifer W. Shuler, County Attorney Ryan L. Butler, Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller Randi Wardlow, Deputy Clerk Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final March 25, 2025 1. CALL TO ORDER Present: 5 - Chairman Joseph Flescher Vice Chairman Deryl Loar Commissioner Susan Adams Commissioner Joe Earman Commissioner Laura Moss 2.A. A MOMENT OF SILENT REFLECTION FOR FIRST RESPONDERS AND MEMBERS OF THE ARMED FORCES 2.B. INVOCATION Deacon Wilfred Hart, Friendship Missionary Baptist Church 3. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Commissioner Deryl Loar 4. ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA / EMERGENCY ITEMS Approved as presented 5. PROCLAMATIONS and PRESENTATIONS 5.A. 25-0306 Presentation of Proclamation Honoring Dr. David K. Moore for Outstanding Leadership & Achievement in Education Recommended action: Recommend Read & Present Attachments: Proclamation Dr. David K. Moore, the Superintendent of Schools, was honored for his leadership, selection as the 2025 Florida Superintendent of the Year, and as a finalist for the National Superintendent of the Year. Under his stewardship, district schools saw dramatic improvements, climbing from 38th to 9th in state rankings with 95% of schools earning top grades. Dr. Moore addressed the Board with thanks to partners and staff before discussing details of the School Board's second Strategic Plan. The Board commended Dr. Moore on his commitment and leadership. Read and Presented by Chairman Flescher 5.13. 25-0387 Presentation of Proclamation Designating April 6th -12th, 2025 As National Crime Victims' Rights Week Attachments: Proclamation Indian River County Victims' Rights Coalition president Paul Zelno discussed the work of the Coalition and their partnership with the Indian River County Sheriffs Indian River County, Florida Page 1 Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final 5.0 5.E March 25, 2025 Office (IRCSO) and the 19th Judicial Circuit. Victim Services and Sexual Assault Assistance Program Director Barbara Faulkner and IRCSO Captain Ross Partee thanked the Board for their support of the work they do on behalf of crime victims. Read and Presented by Vice Chairman Loar 25-0388 Presentation by Debbie Padnuk of veroBEachKIND on "Youth Kindness Day" Recommended Action: Present Debbie Padnuk, Facilitator, veroBEachKIND, spoke about her group's campaign to spread kindness in the community. Members include a unified group of volunteers across a variety of organizations who fight against hate speech and promote kindness. Ms. Padnuk discussed this year's focus on Youth Kindness Projects which would culminate in a celebration at the Environmental Learning Center on April 6, 2025. Presented 25-0389 Presentation of District 19 New Medical Examiner Facility by Scotty Beaulieu, CBC1262158, Project & Construction Manager Recommended Action: No Action Required Attachments: Presentation Scotty Beaulieu, St. Lucie County Facilities Manager, introduced the report on plans for the new Medical Examiner's Facility which would be shared by Indian River, St. Lucie, Martin, and Okeechobee Counties. Project Manager Johnny Lohrum, JL2 Architecture, used a PowerPoint presentation to display visions of the planned space and discussed the facility's unique considerations: accreditation, odor mitigation, natural light, flexibility, safety, and the community's needs. Details of the site plan were also discussed, with consideration for use of the building as a public safety facility. Next steps included a review of comments on the construction documents, and pre -qualification for contractors. It was estimated construction would take 14 to 16 months to complete after groundbreaking. Presented 25-0393 United Way Announcing the Jackie Robinson Celebration Game United Way CEO Meredith Egan announced the return of the Jackie Robinson Celebration Game after a five-year hiatus on April 15, 2025, at Holman Stadium. The game honors Mr. Robinson, who had ties to Holman Stadium, and supports United Way's programs in Indian River County. Major League Baseball's Rachelle Madrigal, Vice President of the Jackie Robinson Indian River County, Florida Page 2 Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final March 25, 2025 Training Complex, expressed excitement about showing the improvements made at the Complex and thanked everyone involved for believing in the vision and helping to bring baseball back to the community. Ms. Madrigal also expressed appreciation to the United Way for their partnership. Presented 6. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 6.A. 25-0385 Regular Meeting of January 14, 2025 Recommended Action: Approve Attachments: 01142025 BCC draft A motion was made by Commissioner Adams, seconded by Vice Chairman Loar, to approve the regular meeting minutes of January 14, 2025 as written. The motion carried by the following vote: Aye: 5- Chairman Flescher, Vice Chairman Loar, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner Earman, and Commissioner Moss 7. INFORMATION ITEMS FROM STAFF OR COMMISSIONERS NOT REQUIRING BOARD ACTION 7.A. 25-0327 Water Conservation Month is April 2025 Recommended Action: No action required - for informational purposes only. Attachments: Staff Report Chairman Flescher took a moment to raise awareness for the need to conserve water resources. No Action Taken or Required 7.B. 25-0358 2025 Operation Green Light Event - March 31st through April 4th Recommended Action: Informational Only Attachments: 20250GL Flyer Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller Ryan Butler discussed Operation Green Light which was a coordinated effort across the state to encourage people who have outstanding fines and fees with the court system to come in and clear them up. He informed that collection fees would be waived, and suspended licenses could be Indian River County, Florida Page 3 Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final March 25, 2025 restored by coming to the Courthouse during the event March 31 st through April 4th and signing up for a payment plan. No Action Taken or Required 7.C. 25-0373 Announcement by Ryan L. Butler, Clerk of Circuit Court and Comptroller, of the Government Finance Officers Association Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for the FY 2023 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) and Award for Outstanding Achievement in Popular Annual Financial Reporting (PAFR) Recommended Action: Inform Attachments: Staff Report Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller Ryan Butler announced the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) had been published for the year that ended September 30, 2024, and the County had received a positive audit. He also noted that last year's ACFR received the Excellence in Financial Reporting award from the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) for the 41 st consecutive year. The Popular Annual Financial Report (PAFR), a summarized version of the ACFR, would be published in the coming weeks; last year's version also won the GFOA Excellence Award for the 9th consecutive year. No Action Taken or Required 7.11). 25-0405 Designating March 3rd -9th, 2025 As Flood Awareness Week Attachments: Proclamation No Action Taken or Required 8. PUBLIC COMMENT: AGENDA -RELATED MATTERS (EXCEPT FOR PUBLIC HEARINGS) 9. CONSENT AGENDA County resident Brent Wohlenberg suggested industries that could be brought into Indian River County. No Action Taken or Required A motion was made by Commissioner Adams, seconded by Chairman Flescher, to approve the Consent Agenda as amended, pulling Items 9.F., 9.H., 9.P, 9.R., and 9.S. for discussion. The motion carried by the following vote: Aye: 5- Chairman Flescher, Vice Chairman Loar, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner Earman, and Commissioner Moss 9.A. 25-0381 Checks and Electronic Payments February 15, 2025 to February 21, 2025 Indian River County, Florida Page 4 Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final March 25, 2025 Recommended Action: Approve the list of checks and electronic payments for the time period of February 15, 2025 to February 21, 2025 Attachments: Comptroller Division Staff Report Approved 9.B. 25-0382 Checks and Electronic Payments February 22, 2025 to February 28, 2025 Recommended action: Approve the list of checks and electronic payments issued for the time period of February 22, 2025 to February 28, 2025 Attachments: Comptroller Division Staff Report Approved 9.C. 25-0379 Quarterly Investment Report for Quarter Ending 12/31/24 Recommended Action: Accept the report Attachments: Investment Committee Report Accepted 9.D. 25-0378 Quarterly OPEB Trust Report for Quarter Ending 12/31/24 Recommended Action: Accept the report Attachments: OPEB Report Accepted 9.E. 25-0380 Dori Slosberg Driver Education Safety Act - Driver Education Program Trust Fund Report - Cumulative Reporting Through 12/31/24 Recommended Action: Accept the report Attachments: Traffic Education Fund Report Accepted 9.F. 25-0376 Consent to Land Development and Use of Real Property - Fellsmere Rail Trail Indian River County, Florida Page 5 Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final March 25, 2025 Recommended Action: Staff recommends the Board approve the Consent to Land Development and Use of Real Property and authorize the Chairman to execute it. Attachments: Staff Report Aerial Photo of County ROW Location Proposed Consent to Land Development and Use of Real Property Commissioner Adams expressed excitement that the project was moving forward and asked if there was a time frame to complete the project. County Attorney Jennifer Shuler informed that this item was to help facilitate the Florida Department of Transportation's (FDOT) task of obtaining consent from all affected landowners, and offered to reach out to the FDOT's attorney for a construction timeline. A motion was made by Commissioner Adams, seconded by Chairman Flescher, to approve staffs recommendation. The motion carried by the following vote: Aye: 5 - Chairman Flescher, Vice Chairman Loar, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner Earman, and Commissioner Moss 9.G. 25-0403 Approval of Agreement for 911 Recording System Maintenance Recommended Action: Staff recommends the Board approve the Maintenance Services Agreement with Quality Recording Solutions, LLC and authorize the Chairman to sign it, after review and approval by the County Attorney as to form and legal sufficiency. Attachments: Staff Report QRS MSA Approved staffs recommendation 9.H. 24-1015 Authorization to Donate Millings to Mount Zion AME Church Recommended Action: Staff recommends the Board authorize the donation of millings to Mount Zion AME Church, in the quantity necessary to repair the existing ruts in the parking lot. Attachments: Staff Report Vice Chairman Lear sought to bring attention to the solution reached to repair Mount Zion AME Church's parking lot which was damaged by equipment staged there during pavement repairs on 43rd Avenue. The Church requested and received a donation of millings from the County to facilitate the repairs, which was allowed under Florida Statute 274.05. Vice Chairman Loar was pleased the County and community were able to work together to find a mutually beneficial solution. A motion was made by Vice Chairman Loar, seconded by Commissioner Adams, to approve staffs recommendation. The motion carried by the following vote: Aye: 5- Chairman Flescher, Vice Chairman Loar, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner Earman, and Commissioner Moss Indian River County, Florida Page 6 Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final March 25, 2025 9.1. 25-0368 Award of Annual Bid 2025027 for Temporary Staffing Services Recommended Action: Staff recommends the Board award Bid 2025027 to the recommended funis, approve the sample agreement, and authorize the Chairman to execute the agreement after approval by the County Attorney as to form and legal sufficiency. Staff also recommends the Board authorize the Procurmeent Manager to renew this bid at the same rates for two (2) additional one (1) year periods subject to satisfactory performance, vendor acceptance, and the determination that renewal of this annual bid is in the best interest of the County. Attachments: Staff Report Sample Agreement Approved staffs recommendation 9.J. 25-0365 Award of Bid 2025020 for Round Island Oceanside Beach Crossover Replacement Recommended Action: Staff recommends the Board award Bid 2025020 to Southeastern Marine Group, Inc., approve the agreement, and authorize the Chairman to sign the agreement after receipt and approval of the agreement by the County Attorney as to form and legal sufficiency, and after receipt and approval of the required insurance by the Risk Manager. Staff also recommends authorization for the Purchasing Manager to approve increases of up to 10% in adjustments necessary to expedite the completion of the project. Attachments: Staff Report Agreement Exh 1 to Agmt - Pricing Approved staffs recommendation 9.K. 25-0402 Award of RFP 2025033 for E -Rate Infrastructure Support for Libraries Recommended action: Staff recommends the Board approve the committee's final ranking of firms and award RFP 2025033 to DOF Creations, LLC. Staff also recommends the Board authorize the Procurement Manager to issue a purchase order to for the County's anticipated share of the project cost, conditional on approval of 80% funding by USAC. Attachments: Staff Report Indian River County, Florida Page 7 Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final March 25, 2025 Approved staffs recommendation 9.L. 25-0332 First Amendment to Agreement for Custodial Services for County Buildings (Group 2) (Bid 2024038) Recommended Action: Staff recommends the Board approve the First Amendment documents and authorize the Chairman to sign them after the County Attorney has approved them as to form and legal sufficiency. Attachments: Staff Report Custodial First Amendment CER Signature Pricing - First Amendment Approved staffs recommendation 9.M. 25-0396 Outside Agency Funding Policy Revisions - Tourist Tax Revenue Allocation Recommended Action: Staff recommends that the Board of County Commissioners approve the aforementioned revisions to the Outside Agency Funding Policy.. Attachments: Staff Report Agenda Item from December 3, 2024 Proposed Outside Agency Funding Policy Outside Agency Funding Policy March 2025 Approved staffs recommendation 9.N. 25-0394 Work Order No. 1, CPZ Architects, Inc - IRC Administration Building B- 2nd Floor East Side Office Build Out Recommended Action: Staff recommends approval of Work Order No. 1 for CPZ Architects, Inc., authorizing the professional services as outlined in the Proposal and requests the Board authorize the Chairman to execute Work Order No. 1 on their behalf for the total lump sum amount of $140,200.00. Attachments: Staff Report Work Order No. 1 Proposal CPZ Approved staffs recommendation 9.0. 25-0395 Work Order No. 2, CPZ Architects, Inc - IRC Administration Building, Property Appraiser's Office Renovations Indian River County, Florida Page 8 Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final March 25, 2025 Recommended Action: Staff recommends approval of Work Order No. 2 for CPZ Architects, Inc., authorizing the professional services as outlined in the Proposal and requests the Board authorize the Chairman to execute Work Order No. 2 on their behalf for the total lump sum amount of $80,896.00. Attachments: Staff Report Work Order #2 PA Proposal for PA Approved staffs recommendation 9,P. 25-0401 Coastal Technology Work Order No. 2018007-5 Sector 7 Alternatives Assessment Recommended action: Staff recommends that the Board approve Work Order No. 2018007-5 in the lump sum amount of $21,090 and authorize the Chairman to execute Work Order No. 2018007-5 on behalf of the County. Attachments: Staff Report Work Order 2018007-5 Scope of Work.pdf Work Order 2018007-5 Aoreement.doc Commissioner Earman discussed the history of attempts to repair the hurricane -eroded shoreline of the Sector 7 beach. He indicated staff had a proposal to explore the feasibility of restoring part of the beach in the absence of needed easements for the entire sector. Coastal Resources Manager Quintin Bergman presented the Board with a proposal to conduct an alternate assessment of Sector 7. Mr. Bergman informed the Board that the County had received construction permits from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to bring -in sand which was valid until September 2035. However, FEMA reimbursement funds for a whole -sector restoration were no longer available. Staff recommended conducting a study to evaluate the constructability and effectiveness of performing a truncated project within Sector 7. Commissioner Adams entered into discussion with Mr. Bergman and Kylie Yanchula, Natural Resources Director, regarding funding for the proposal. Ms. Yanchula noted there were funding opportunities identified in the County's Beach Preservation Plan. The first step was to evaluate the viability of an alternative design that did not include the feeder beach; there were funds available for the assessment. A motion was made by Commissioner Earman, seconded by Chairman Flescher, Indian River County, Florida Page 9 Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final March 25, 2025 to approve staffs recommendation. The motion carried by the following vote: Aye: 5 - Chairman Flescher, Vice Chairman Loar, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner Earman, and Commissioner Moss 9.Q. 25-0392 Indian River County Climate Vulnerability Assessment Final Report Recommended action: Staff recommends that the BCC approve the final Climate Vulnerability Assessment and authorize Staff to submit the final VA to the FDEP in accordance with grant reporting requirements. Attachments: Staff Report Approved staffs recommendation 9.R. 25-0386 Indian River County and Sea & Shoreline, LLC Contractual Agreement for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Transformational Habitat Restoration Grant through the Indian River Lagoon Council Recommended action: Staff recommends the Board of County Commissioners approve the Agreement for Seagrass Restoration Services with Sea & Shoreline, LLC, and authorize the Chairman to execute it, after review and approval by the County Attorney as to form and legal sufficiency. Attachments: Staff Report Sea & Shoreline Seagrass Agreement Vice Chairman Loar requested feedback from County Administrator John Titkanich regarding the possibility that the federal government's grant award may be withheld, and how it impacted this project. Administrator Titkanich's understanding was, if the grant funds were obligated and the project was underway, the $340,000 grant from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) Transformational Habitat Restoration Grant would not be subject to revision. Natural Resources Director Kylie Yanchula added that the Indian River Lagoon Council (IRLC) confirmed it had access to the NOAA grant funds, and this contract with Sea and Shoreline contained a contingency clause dependent on receiving the NOAA grant. Ms. Yanchula entered into discussion with the Board and provided details of the reimbursement plan, and the contingency clause. Confirmation was given that the total cost across three years would be $1.4 million, less the $340,000 grant from NOAA; the $1,073.506 balance would be reimbursed to the County through the IRLC/ Indian River Lagoon National Estuary Program (IRLNEP). Ms. Yanchula informed that many grants worked on a reimbursement basis with staff providing in-kind support. A motion was made by Vice Chairman Loar, seconded by Commissioner Adams, to approve staffs recommendation. The motion carried by the following vote: Indian River County, Florida Page 10 Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final March 25, 2025 Aye: 5- Chairman Flescher, Vice Chairman Loar, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner Earman, and Commissioner Moss 9.S. 25-0312 Appointment of Board of County Commissioners Alternate to the MPO Citizens Advisory Committee Recommended Action: Staff recommends that the Board appoint Anne H. Bert as the Board of County Commissioners alternate to the MPO Citizens Advisory Committee. Attachments: Staff Report Commissioner Moss stated she was in favor of appointing Anne H. Bert as the Board of County Commissioner alternate to the Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC). The Commissioner went on to revisit the idea of potential term limits for BCC appointed committee members as she discussed CAC appointees' tenure and attendance records. She suggested advertising for volunteer applications. MPO Staff Director Brian Freeman addressed the Board, explaining the reasons behind some recent issues with reaching quorum at the CAC meetings, and informed that openings had been advertised. Commissioner Adams received confirmation that the CAC did not have a policy regarding consequences for unexcused absences; Mr. Freeman agreed to look into adding one. The Commissioner suggested reaching out to existing members with a reminder of their attendance obligation before making any replacements. A motion was made by Commissioner Moss, seconded by Chairman Flescher, to approve the appointment of Anne H. Bert as the Board of County Commissioners alternate to the MPO Citizens Advisory Committee. The motion carried by the following vote: Aye: 5 - Chairman Flescher, Vice Chairman Loar, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner Earman, and Commissioner Moss 9.T. 25-0397 Banack Family Limited Partnership's Request for Affidavit of Exemption (AOE) Approval with Dedications to the County for the Indian Summer Estates AOE [AOE-23-11-03 / 2023050099-95504] Recommended Action: Staff recommends that the Board of County Commissioners accept the dedication of the limited access easements and authorize the chairman to execute the Indian Summer Estates Affidavit of Exemption. Attachments: Staff Report Location Map Affidavit of Exemption Layout Indian River County, Florida Page 11 Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final March 25, 2025 Approved staff's recommendation 9.U. 25-0399 Florida Department of Transportation Utility Work by Highway Contractor Agreement for County Road 512 Widening Project From East Of Interstate -95 To West Of 106th Avenue, FDOT Financial Project ID: 449332-1 Recommended Action: Staff recommends that the Indian River County Board of County Commissioners approve the Utility Work by Highway Contractor Agreement with the Florida Department of Transportation for utilities work related to County Road 512 Widening Project from East of Interstate -95 to West of 106th Avenue, FDOT Financial Project ID: 449332-1, and the budget of $15,868.60 with $14,425.60 payable to Florida Department of Transportation and $1,443.00 retained by Indian River County Department of Utility Services for cost escalations, and authorize the Chair to execute the same. So long as there are no changes in the approved dollar amounts, staff are directed to make payments to the Florida Department of Transportation. Attachments: Staff Report Utility Work Agreement Approved staff's recommendation The Chairman called for a recess at 10:37 a.m., and reconvened the meeting at 10:50 a.m. with all members present. 10. CONSTITUTIONAL OFFICERS and GOVERNMENTAL AGENCIES 11. PUBLIC ITEMS A. PUBLIC HEARINGS PROOF OF PUBLICATION FOR THIS HEARING IS ON FILE IN THE OFFICE OF THE CLERK TO THE BOARD. 11.A.1. 25-0359 Second Public Hearing - Proposed Developer's Agreement Between Meritage Homes of Florida, Inc. and Indian River County (Legislative) Recommended Action: Staff recommends the Board review the Proposed Developer's Agreement, open the public hearing for comment, close the public hearing and make a motion to approve the Proposed Developer's Agreement and allow the Chairman to sign said agreement. Indian River County, Florida Page 12 Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final March 25, 2025 Attachments: Staff Report Aerial Photo Document Demonstrating Location and Surrounding Zoning Deputy County Attorney Susan Prado presented details of the Developer's Agreement (Agreement) between the County and Meritage Homes of Florida, Inc. for the Lakeside West Planned Development to be located on 43rd Avenue, north of 25th Street SW. This was the second required public hearing to approve the Agreement which listed improvements Meritage Homes was required to provide. The presentation began with an outline of what was included in a Developer's Agreement and what was not. Attorney Prado entered into discussion with the Board regarding vested rights of a developer to build on their land, the time limit for those rights, and the effect of tolling because of natural disasters; agreements were typically seven years long. County Attorney Jennifer Shuler clarified the difference between property rights, which entitled development within zoning allowances, and vested rights which were calculated through the permit process and were tied to the land. Commissioner Moss referenced the Planning and Zoning Commission's (PZC) minutes from June 3, 2022, about Lakeside West's approval and inquired about a 2004 traffic analysis. The Commissioner and staff entered into discussion regarding PZC's review of the traffic study, details of the developer's obligations, and the agreed -to contribution of $90,000 for local park improvements. Further discussions addressed stormwater management and flood insurance for buyers. The presentation resumed with an overview of the benefits of developer's agreements. Planning and Services Director Chris Balter shared the project timeline starting in 2004 as Tripson Trail, planned for 288 homes under the South County Initiative, now modified to Lakeside West with 201 units. County Engineer Joseph DeFonzo reviewed a 2004 trip generation study, noting fewer units would mean fewer trips. Commissioner Adams suggested the County benefited from the 2004 study's higher trip count, prompting more improvements from the Developer. Mr. DeFonzo confirmed this with data, noting traffic conditions could change. Following the presentation, discussion ensued regarding traffic and service levels, and the meaning of the grading system. Attorney Prado explained the ways developer's agreements had to balance community needs with development rights, according to state statutes. The Board shared traffic concerns in the County and discussed the impact of the Oslo Road interchange to travel patterns in this area. The Chairman opened the public hearing for comment. Indian River County, Florida Page 13 Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final March 25, 2025 Residents addressed the Board with concerns for increased traffic at 43rd Avenue which was nearing capacity, suggested paving local roads or adding traffic lights to provide relief, requested consideration for improving infrastructure, and spoke of concerns for the impact from the Oslo Road/1-95 Interchange. The following County residents spoke before the Board: Jeanne Koontz, Fountains at Amber Lakes Marie Chauvin, Fountains at Amber Lakes Tracey Hatch, 21st Street SW Wesley Mills, Engineer of Record with Mills Short and Associates, appeared before the Board to answer any questions. There being no further comments, the Chairman closed the public hearing. Commissioner Earman expressed concern for incoming and outgoing traffic along 43rd Avenue, and suggested the County consider improving 58th Avenue south of Oslo Road. The Board discussed the issues surrounding roadway improvements, and outlined the path forward. A motion was made by Vice Chairman Loar, seconded by Chairman Flescher, to approve staffs recommendation. The motion carried by the following vote: Aye: 4 - Chairman Flescher, Vice Chairman Loar, Commissioner Adams, and Commissioner Earman Nay: 1 - Commissioner Moss 11.A.2. 25-0377 First Public Hearing - Proposed Developer's Agreement Between DRP Bookbinder Multistate, LLC and Indian River County Recommended action: Staff recommends the Board review the Proposed Developer's Agreement, open the public hearing for comment, close the public hearing and make a motion to bring the Proposed Developer's Agreement back to the Board for the required second public hearing on April 8, 2025. Attachments: Staff Report Aerial Photo Proposed Developers Agreement with DRP Bookbinder Multistate, LLC.pdf Traffic Study Special Warranty Deed to DRP Bookbinder Multistate, LLC Deputy County Attorney Susan Prado introduced the first public hearing for the Indian River County, Florida Page 14 Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final March 25, 2025 proposed Developer's Agreement (Agreement) between DRP Bookbinder Multistate LLC (DRP) and Indian River County; the second public hearing was scheduled for April 8, 2025. Attorney Prado noted this was a unique situation as the property had been sold to DRP before the Board -approved Developer's Agreement was signed by previous owner Riverfront Groves, Inc. for the Harmony Isles planned development. She informed the only change was to ownership of the property, and the project was still planned to include 237 single-family lots and 147 townhomes to be located at 1375 98th Avenue. Chairman Flescher inquired whether anything was known about DRP, the property's new owner. Attorney Prado informed the new developer was not requesting any changes. Her office verified signing authority and ensured the company was in good standing in their home state. Commissioner Adams received confirmation the Board was being asked to take a Developer Agreement that was already approved and assign it to a new owner. The Chairman opened the public hearing. Sharon Gorey expressed concern for the increased traffic along SR 60 and received confirmation the project had already been approved for development. Pete Sweeney of MTC Law, representative for DRP, thanked staff for their assistance. There being no further comments, the Chairman closed the public hearing. Commissioner Moss reiterated her previous opposition to the development. A motion was made by Vice Chairman Loar, seconded by Chairman Flescher, to approve staffs recommendation. The motion carried by the following vote: Aye: 4 - Chairman Flescher, Vice Chairman Loar, Commissioner Adams, and Commissioner Earman Nay: 1 - Commissioner Moss The Chairman called for a recess at 12:18 p.m., and reconvened the meeting at 12:27 p.m. with all members present. 11.A.3. 25-0390 Miscellaneous Budget Amendment 02 Recommended action: Staff recommends the Board of County Commissioners approved the budget resolution amending the fiscal year 2024-25 budget. Indian River County, Florida Page 15 Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final March 25, 2025 Attachments: Staff Report 2024 2025 Resolution Exhibit "A" Public Hearing Advertisement Office of Budget and Management Kristin Daniels presented the second miscellaneous budget amendment for fiscal year 2024/25, as required by Florida Statute. Vice Chairman Loar requested discussion on line item 22, a $127,857 salary increase requested by the District 19 Medical Examiner, which the Board had only just learned of. Ms. Daniels and County Administrator John Titkanich provided additional information, referencing a memo and study from St. Lucie County previously received by the Administrator. It was noted the County's portion would be $14,578 for the remainder of the fiscal year. The Board expressed their discomfort with the budget amendment, and displeasure for the way the matter was handled. The proposed salary increase sparked discussion over transparency in decision-making processes and the need for collaborative discussions among partner counties before approving substantial financial adjustments. The County Administrator informed the item did not go into effect until June 1st and could be brought back as a separate matter. The Board requested additional discussion with information on the process used to justify the increase, and representation from St. Lucie County so the Board could have their questions answered. A motion was made by Commissioner Earman, seconded by Commissioner Moss, to approve Resolution 2025-012, amending the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Budget, with the exception of line Item 22, District 19 Medical Examiner's salary increase. The motion carried by the following vote: Aye: 5 - Chairman Flescher, Vice Chairman Loar, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner Earman, and Commissioner Moss A motion was made by Commissioner Earman, seconded by Commissioner Moss, to approve additional action directing staff to return with line Item 22 of Budget Amendment 02, District 19 Medical Examiner's salary increase, as a separate Agenda Item with additional information. The motion carried by the following vote: Aye: 5 - Chairman Flescher, Vice Chairman Loar, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner Earman, and Commissioner Moss B. PUBLIC NOTICE ITEMS 12. COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR MATTERS 13. DEPARTMENTAL MATTERS Indian River County, Florida Page 16 Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final March 25, 2025 A. Building and Facilities Services B. Community Services 13.8.1. 25-0391 CSAC - Return On Investment Recommended action: Staff recommends that the Board acknowledge the return on investment for children's programs. Attachments: Staff Report Return on Investment and Research Informed Deceisions 2025 Community Services Director Cindy Emerson and Human Services Manager Megan Kendrick presented the Board with information on the return on investment (ROI) from the Children's Services Advisory Committee's (CSAC) programs. Ms. Emerson first thanked the Board for supporting the funding of programs that supported children and families in the County. Ms. Kendrick used a PowerPoint presentation to show quantified impacts of the County's funding of CSAC's 46 programs which reached over 20,000 touchpoints. Return on investment for each of CSAC's funding priorities (Health and Well-being, Nurturing Families and Community, and Success in School and in Life) were detailed, noting the data -driven assessments, increased accountability and measured outcomes. It was estimated that every dollar spent on programs for disadvantaged children yielded a return between $4 and $16. Commissioner Moss took issue with the fact that some references cited were ten years old. Ms. Emerson noted that many studies had been halted during the pandemic, and assured her department had done their due -diligence in finding the most up-to-date studies on ROI. Ms. Emerson welcomed any additional research the Commissioner had for their review and dissemination. Acknowledged C. Emergency Services D. Human Resources E. Information Technology F. Natural Resources G. Office of Management and Budget Indian River County, Florida Page 17 Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final March 25, 2025 13.G.1. 25-0370 Children's Services Funding Allocation for Fiscal Year 2025/26 Recommended Action: The County Administrator recommends the Board approve funding for Children's Services agencies at the current 0.1250 millage rate which would generate $3,479,492 in funding for FY 2025/26. This amount provides a 15.2% increase or $458,951 additional dollars when compared to the current year's funding. Attachments: Staff Report Children's Services Funding History Director of Management and Budget Kristin Daniels presented the Children's Services Advisory Committee's (CSAC) funding allocations for fiscal year 2025-2026. She informed the allocation was based on the previous year's taxroll with the millage rate remaining at .1250, which was under the .2500 millage cap. Commissioner Adams, Board liaison to the CSAC, expressed pride in what the CSAC team had accomplished, and spoke of the coming year's focus. Commissioner Moss informed she had reviewed video of the February 11, 2025 CSAC meeting and raised concerns about potential staff retaliation against agencies that questioned certain practices. She requested the County Administrator address these issues to foster an open and inclusive dialogue. Commissioner Adams addressed Commissioner Moss' concerns, explaining the agency in question acknowledged they mistakenly sought funding under the wrong category. She stated it was a misrepresentation to suggest staff had the power to retaliate, as CSAC members were the only ones who had a role in setting requirements and approving funding. Commissioner Adams went on to defend staffs record, suggesting comments were taken out of context, and noted Commissioner Moss had not necessarily been the biggest supporter of CSAC's programs or funding. The Commissioners endorsed improvements made to the CSAC system, and encouraged understanding and support for staffs commitment to CSAC. A motion was made by Commissioner Adams, seconded by Commissioner Earman, to approve staffs recommendation. The motion carried by the following vote: Aye: 5 - Chairman Flescher, Vice Chairman Loar, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner Earman, and Commissioner Moss H. Parks, Recreation, and Conservation I. Planning and Development Services J. Public Works 13.J.1. 25-0404 Options for Paving of 32nd Avenue in Gifford Neighborhood Indian River County, Florida Page 18 Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final March 25, 2025 Recommended action: Staff recommends that the Board of County Commissioners review the presented options and provide guidance on the preferred approach for paving 32nd Avenue in the Gifford Neighborhood Attachments: Staff Report Opt 1 - 32nd Ave Neighborhood Rwy Const. - 43rd PI Opt 2 - 32nd Ave Neighborhood Rwy Const - Full Right -of -Way Impacts Map - 43rd St -32nd Ave Public Works Director Addie Javed appeared before the Board to present the requested paving options for 32nd Avenue north of 43rd Street, as outlined in the Gifford Neighborhood Plan. A key consideration was addressing a protruding utility manhole near 43rd Place and 32nd Avenue. Staff prepared three (3) options for the Board's review and guidance, which were outlined in staffs memo dated March 25, 2025. Mr. Javed noted the proposals were a broad outline and sought guidance from the Board on which option to pursue further. The Commissioners entered into lengthy discussion with Mr. Javed as they sought clarification of the options. Most of the discussion centered around Option 2: paving of 32nd Avenue from north of 43rd Street to 44th Street, connecting to 31 st Avenue, along with paving 43rd Place between 33rd Avenue and 32nd Avenue ($1M), and Option 3: all improvements in Option 2 with additional drainage enhancements ($2.5M). The Board's main concerns included cost, drainage requirements when paving, lack of easements, and the best use of funds. Mr. Javed informed that Option 2 would include open swales to mitigate drainage, though it would not completely resolve flooding. The lack of right-of-way was concerning, and complicated by the fact that 32nd Avenue was a private road without easements, save for a 10 foot utility easement. Chairman Flescher noted the County was committed to paving the road beyond millings, and suggested a hybrid solution of chip -sealing; the drainage requirements for this option could be met by open swales. The Commissioners requested additional information such as surveys, impacts to resident's property, drainage requirements, and the full scope of costs in order to make a quality decision. Planning and Development Services Director Chris Balter, advised the larger stormwater remediation solutions detailed in Option 3 could be tackled later in a phased plan following the paving of this road. County Administrator John Titkanich requested giving staff the opportunity to pull together the requested data and a timeline for Option 2, and return to the Board at the next meeting. Tony Brown, representing the Progressive Civic League of Gifford, urged the Board not to get bogged down in stormwater issues and urged them to take Indian River County, Florida Page 19 Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final March 25, 2025 action. He suggested Option 2 with chip -sealing seemed like a reasonable option in terms of cost and timing, and encouraged directing staff to return with more details. The Board was in consensus to direct staff to pursue Option 2 and to return with a timeline and requested details at the April 22, 2025 Board meeting. The Board directed staff to return with additional details and a timeline for Option 2, paving of 32nd Avenue from north of 43rd Street to 44th Street, connecting to 31st Avenue, along with paving 43rd Place between 33rd Avenue and 32nd Avenue. K. Sandridge Golf Club L. Utilities Services 14. COUNTY ATTORNEY MATTERS 15. COMMISSIONERS MATTERS A. Commissioner Joseph E. Flescher, Chairman B. Commissioner Deryl Loar, Vice Chairman C. Commissioner Susan Adams D. Commissioner Joseph H. Earman E. Commissioner Laura Moss 16. SPECIAL DISTRICTS AND BOARDS A. Emergency Services District B. Solid Waste Disposal District C. Environmental Control Board 17. PUBLIC COMMENT: NON -AGENDA -RELATED MATTERS 18. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business, the Chairman adjourned the meeting at 2:17 p.m. Indian River County, Florida Page 20 Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final March 25, 2025 ATTEST: Ryan L. Butler Clerk of Circuit Court and Comptroller By: Deputy Clerk BCC/RW/2025 Minutes Approved: June 3, 2025 Indian River County Florida Page 21