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HomeMy WebLinkAbout11/18/2025 (2)Indian River County, Florida Indian River County Administration Complex 1801 27th Street Vero Beach, Florida 32960 indianriver.gov Meeting Minutes - Final Tuesday, November 18, 2025 9:00 AM Commission Chambers Board of County Commissioners Deryl Loar, District 4, Chairman Laura Moss, District 5, Vice Chairman Susan Adams, District 1 Joseph Flescher, District 2 Joseph H. Earman, District 3 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 November 18, 2025 1. CALL TO ORDER Present: 5 - Chairman Deryl Loar Vice Chairman Laura Moss Commissioner Susan Adams Commissioner Joseph Flescher Commissioner Joe Earman 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 Jennifer Shuler, County Attorney 3.A. ELECTION OF BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSION CHAIRMAN Chainnan Flescher reflected on his year as Chairman before passing the gavel to the County Attorney who would be Acting Chair. County Attorney Jenifer Shuler opened the floor for nominations for Chairman. Commissioner Earman nominated Commissioner Loar for Chairman, and was seconded by Commissioner Flescher. The County Attorney called the vote to close the floor for further nominations. A motion was made by Commissioner Flescher, seconded by Commissioner Earman, to close the floor for further nominations. The motion carried by the following vote: Aye: 5 - Chairman Loar, Vice Chairman Moss, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner Flescher, and Commissioner Earman A motion was made by Commissioner Earman, seconded by Commissioner Flescher, to elect Commissioner Loar as the Chairman of the Board of County Commissioners. The motion carried by the following vote: Aye: 5 - Chairman Loar, Vice Chairman Moss, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner Flescher, and Commissioner Earman 3.B. ELECTION OF BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSION VICE CHAIRMAN County Attorney Jenifer Shuler opened the floor for nominations for Vice Chairman. Commissioner Adams nominated Commissioner Moss, and was seconded by Indian River County, Florida Page 1 Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final November 18, 2025 Commissioner Earman. The County Attorney called the vote to close the floor for further nominations. A motion was made by Commissioner Adams, seconded by Vice Chairman Moss, to close the floor for further nominations. The motion carried by the following vote: Aye: 5- Chairman Loar, Vice Chairman Moss, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner Flescher, and Commissioner Earman A motion was made by Commissioner Adams, seconded by Commissioner Earman, to elect Commissioner Moss as Vice Chairman of the Board of County Commissioners. The motion carried by the following vote: Aye: 5- Chairman Lear, Vice Chairman Moss, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner Flescher, and Commissioner Earman 4. ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA / EMERGENCY ITEMS Item 10.D. was moved to follow Item 10.F. A motion was made by Vice Chairman Moss, seconded by Commissioner Flescher, to approve the Agenda as amended. The motion carried by the following vote: Aye: 5 - Chairman Loar, Vice Chairman Moss, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner Flescher, and Commissioner Earman 5. PROCLAMATIONS and PRESENTATIONS 5.A. 25-1034 Presentation of Proclamation Honoring the Vero Beach Art Club & Judy Burgarella for the Mural Creation & Restoration Recommended Action: Recommend read & present. Attachments: Indian River County Mural Proclamation Judy Burgarella was present to accept the Proclamation honoring the Vero Beach Art Club. The Commissioners expressed appreciation for the multi -panel mural on display in the Administration Building which depicted Indian River County's natural and cultural highlights Ms. Burgarella recounted how the mural had been damaged during Hurricane Milton, and said she was pleased the artwork was in a safe place for all to enj oy. Read and presented by Commissioner Flescher 5.B. 25-1065 Presentation of Proclamation Honoring the Life & Legacy of Mr. Joe Idlette, Jr. Recommended Action: Recommend read & present. Indian River County, Florida Page 2 Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final November 18, 2025 Attachments: 11.18.25 Joe Idlette II Joe Idlette III accepted the Proclamation on behalf of his father, Joe Idlette, Jr., in honor of his legacy to the Indian River County School system. Mr. Idlette III thanked the Board for acknowledging his father's impact and contributions to the community. Read and Presented by Commissioner Earman 5.C. 25-1075 Presentation of Proclamation for GIS Day as November 19, 2025 Recommended Action: Read & Present. Attachments: Proclamation GIS Manager Rachelle Benken discussed the myriad ways data from Geographic Information Systems (GIS) enhanced people's lives, and spoke of the future role of the evolving technology. Ms. Benken introduced her team and closed with the GIS saying, "For where there's a where, there's a way." Read and presented by Chairman Loar 5.D. 25-1058 Indian River Community Foundation 2025 Community Needs Update Recommended Action: Present. Jeff Pickering, President and CEO of the Community Foundation, used a slide deck to present the Community Foundation's Indian River County Community Needs Assessment 2025. He began with key insights from the last report in 2020 and listed the surveys and data used to compile the report. While the majority of residents believed the County was headed in the right direction, there were areas of concern: healthcare access and affordability, affordable childcare and education, low wages and limited transportation, housing affordability, and public safety. Outlier observations included the importance of local maternity care, satisfaction with public schools, and a higher number of homeless students. The report continued with promising and concerning trends in the areas of health, education, economic opportunities and employment, and housing. In the area of health, there were increases in healthy habits contrasted with high-risk pregnancies, mental health struggles, and high food insecurity. Promising education trends were seen in high enrollment and graduation rates. However, almost half of students were unprepared for kindergarten, and 32 percent of public school students were chronically absent. Economic trends showed a reported rise in median income to $72,000. Of concern were higher poverty levels, low wages, economically disadvantaged students, and relatively high unemployment. Lastly, housing trends included a lower homeless count and reduced domestic violence. Concerning trends in the high number of homeless students, increased evictions, housing -burdened residents, and senior isolation were seen. Indian River County, Florida Page 3 Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final November 18, 2025 Recommendations to improve the community included increased collaboration, targeted government resources, and a balance between public and private resources; the County had an unusually high level of household giving. Mr. Pickering closed with a call to action for civic engagement. Presented 6. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 6.A. 25-1096 Regular Meeting of September 09, 2025 Recommended Action: Approve Attachments: 09092025BCC Draft A motion was made by Commissioner Flescher, seconded by Commissioner Adams, to approve the Regular Meeting Minutes of September 9, 2025. The motion carried by the following vote: Aye: 5 - Chairman Loar, Vice Chairman Moss, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner Flescher, and Commissioner Earman 7. INFORMATION ITEMS FROM STAFF OR COMMISSIONERS NOT REQUIRING BOARD ACTION 8. PUBLIC COMMENT: AGENDA -RELATED MATTERS (EXCEPT FOR PUBLIC HEARINGS) 9. CONSENT AGENDA A motion was made by Commissioner Flescher, seconded by Commissioner Adams, to approve the Consent Agenda as amended, pulling Item 9.1. for discussion. The motion carried by the following vote: Aye: 5- Chairman Loar, Vice Chairman Moss, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner Flescher, and Commissioner Earman 9.A. 25-1053 Review of the Affordable Housing Advisory Committee 2025 Incentives Review and Recommendation Report Recommended Action: Staff and the Affordable Housing Advisory Committee recommend that the Board of County Commissioners approve the 2025 AHAC Incentives Review Report and direct staff to submit a copy of the report to the FHFC for review by December 31, 2025. Attachments: AHAC 2025 Draft Report RESOLUTION for 2025 AHAC Report Approved staffs recommendation and Resolution 2025-071, approving the Indian River County Affordable Housing Advisory Committee (AHAC) 2025 Report and directing staff to submit the AHAC Report to Florida Housing Finance Corporation (FHFC). Indian River County, Florida Page 4 Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final November 18, 2025 9.13. 25-1064 Approval of a Public Transportation Grant Agreement (PTCA) with the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) for a Section 5311 Grant Recommended Action: Staff recommends that the Board of County Commissioners approve the Public Transportation Grant Agreement and adopt the resolution authorizing the Chairman to sign the agreement. ATTACHMENTS Authorizing Resolution for the Execution of a Public Transportation Grant Agreement 2. FDOT Public Transportation Grant Agreement Attachments: Authorizing Resolution FDOT Public Transportation Grant Agreement Approved staffs recommendation and Resolution 2025-072, authorizing the execution of a Public Transportation Grant Agreement with the Florida Department of Transportation. 9.C. 25-1066 Travel Authorization for the County Attorney for Fiscal Year 2025/2026 Recommended Action: Approve the County Attorney's travel needs for Fiscal Year 2025/2026 Approved staffs recommendation 9.D. 25-1070 Partial Release of Drainage Easement - 13620 Indian River Drive Recommended Action: Staff recommends that the Board, through adoption of the proposed resolution and Partial Release of Easement, approve the subject release of the County -dedicated easement at 13620 Indian Rier Drive. Attachments: Partial Release of Easement Resolution for Partial Release of Easement Exhibit A Sketch and Legal View of Released Easement Area Grant of Easement Approved staffs recommendation and Resolution 2025-073, releasing an easement (or portion thereof) on 13620 Indian River Drive. 9.E. 25-1074 Change Order 1 - Work Order No. 2018029-13 - APTIM, Sector 5 Hurricanes Ian and Nicole Dune Restoration Pre -Construction and Engineering Services Recommended Action: Staff recommends the BCC authorize Change Order No. 1 to Work Order No. 2018029-13 in the total lump sum amount of $53,375.46. Additionally, staff recommends the BCC authorize the Chairman to execute Change Order No. 1 to Indian River County, Florida Page 5 Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final November 18, 2025 Work Order No. 2018029-13 on behalf of the BCC after legal sufficiency approval by the County Attorney. Attachments: Change Order No. 1 Work Order No. 2018029-13 Agreement Approved staffs recommendation 9.F. 25-1078 Purchase of Traffic Operations Division replacement maintenance sign truck for on-call purposes Recommended action: Staff recommends the Board approve the funding request for the purchase of a replacement truck from Alan Jay Fleet Sales in the amount of $71,531, for the Public Works Department Traffic Operations Division, which includes options totaling $25,285. Attachments: Allan Jay Quote Approved staff's recommendation 9.G. 25-1080 Notice of Application for Indian River Lagoon National Estuary Program Grants for Various Projects Recommended action: Staff requests authorization to submit grant application packages to the IRLNEP for applicable projects as determined by the respective Departments. Staff also requests the Board authorize the respective Department Director the ability to sign the grant applications after review by the County Attorney's office for legal sufficiency, if required, with the understanding that any award of grants would come before the Board for final approval. Approved staff's recommendation 9.H. 25-1081 Award of Bid 2025067 for Gifford Water Tank Structural Rehabilitation Phase 2, IRCDUS Project ID 13.23.538 Recommended action: Staff recommends the Board award Bid 2025067 to Viking Painting, LLC for Gifford Water Tank Structural Rehabilitation Phase 2 for $398,250, approve the Agreement, and authorize the Chairman to sign the agreement after it has been approved by the County Attorney as to form and legal sufficiency, and after receipt and approval of the required public construction bond. Staff also request authorization to hold $60,000 in project reserve for potential changes due to scope variability or owner directed changes for a total budget of $458,250. So long as there are no increases to the budget dollar amount approved, upon adequate completion of the work, staff is directed to make final payment and release any retainage to Viking Painting, LLC. Attachments: Sample Agreement Approved staff's recommendation Indian River County, Florida Page 6 Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final November 18, 2025 9.1. 25-1083 AtkinsRealis Work Order No. 10 for Sebastian Septic to Sewer Conversion Feasibility Study, IRCDUS Project ID 21.26.502 Recommended Action: Staff recommends that the Indian River County Board of County Commissioners approve Work Order 10 to AtkinsRealis to provide professional services for the Sebastian Septic to Sewer Conversion Feasibility Study project, Project ID 21.26.502, in the amount of $288,132, 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 AtkinsRealis. Attachments: IRC Septic To Sewer Proposal County Administration John Titkanich introduced the item commissioning a Septic to Sewer Conversion Feasibility Study in Sebastian by the firm AtkinsR6alis. He noted the Board had approved conducting the study in June of this year. Utilities Director Sean Lieske stated that the purpose of the study would be to obtain costs, options, and the feasibility of converting the entire community to sewer services. He assured the Board that his department would collaborate with Sebastian in the evaluation process, and a report would be brought back before the Board. A motion was made by Commissioner Flescher, seconded by Vice Chairman Moss, to approve staffs recommendation. The motion carried by the following vote: Aye: 5 - Chairman Loar, Vice Chairman Moss, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner Flescher, and Commissioner Earman 9.J. 25-1087 Aviation Boulevard Extension (33rd Street to 36th Street) Corridor Study / S.C.A.L.E. Report] (IRC -1761) Recommended Action: Staff recommends that the Board approve this Corridor Study of the proposed extension between 33rd Street and 36th Street. Attachments: Scale Report Approved staffs recommendation 9.K. 25-1088 Interlocal Agreement Between Indian River County and the City of Vero Beach Regarding the Maintenance of Traffic Signal Infrastructure within its Rights of Way Recommended Action: Staff recommends the Board of County Commissioners approve the Interlocal Agreement between Indian River County and the City of Vero Beach regarding the Maintenance of Traffic Signal Infrastructure within its rights of way and authorize the Chairman to execute the same. Attachments: ILA IRC-COVB Traffic Signal Agmt-SIGNED by COVB Sep 2025 Indian River County, Florida Page 7 Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final November 18, 2025 Approved staffs recommendation 9.L. 25-1090 Change Order No. 2 and Release of Retainage - Bathroom Renovations IRC Main Library and North County Library (IRC -2403 / CP -2510) Recommended action: Staff recommend approval of Change Order No. 2 and payment of Contractor's Application of Payment Diaz Constructors, LLC in the amount of $90,805.99. Attachments: Close Out Change Order #2 Final Pay Application #6 Approved staffs recommendation 9.M. 25-1092 Amendment to Add Porte Cochere for Sandridge Golf Club New Clubhouse Recommended Action: Staff recommends the Board to accept the Porte Cochere Budget by Quest Contracting, LLC and Additional Service #8 with sparcdesign, approve the sample agreement, and authorize the Chairman to execute it, after review and approval of the agreement. Attachments: Porte Cochere Budget #2 10-8-2025 Change Order - Quest Contracting Sparc Design add'I sery #8 Porte Cochere Porte Cochere sketch Sparc Design Building Section Approved staffs recommendation 9.N. 25-1093 Amendment to Agreement for EDSAP (RFP 2024059) Recommended action: Staff recommends the Board approve the Amendment to the Agreement and authorize the Chairman to execute it, after review and approval by the County Attorney as to form and legal sufficiency. Attachments: EDSAP First Amendment Approved staffs recommendation 9.0. 25-1094 Agreement for 2025-2026 Use of Facilities as Voting Polling Location — Intergenerational Recreation Center Recommended Action: Staff recommends that the Board of County Commissioners accept the Agreement for 2025-2026 RE: Use of Facilities as Polling Place and authorize the Chairman to execute the agreement after review by the County Attorney for legal sufficiency. Attachments: 25- IG Center 112B.pdf Indian River County, Florida Page 8 Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final November 18, 2025 Approved staffs recommendation 9.P. 25-1095 Draft Memorandum of Agreement Between the St. John's River Water Management District and Indian River County for Coastal Habitat Rehabilitation and Restoration Recommended Action: Staff respectfully recommend the Board authorize the County Attorney to work with the SJRWMD staff to develop a final Memorandum of Agreement Between the St. John's River Water Management District and Indian River County for cooperative project agreements to further coastal habitat rehabilitation and restoration projects in Indian River County, and authorize the County Administrator to execute the final MOA subject to review and approval by the County Attorney so long as there are no substantive changes to the draft MOA. Attachments: Continuing Project Partnership MOA (Clean).docx Approved staffs recommendation 10. CONSTITUTIONAL OFFICERS and GOVERNMENTAL AGENCIES 10.A. 25-1097 Property Appraiser Annual Fiscal Report Attachments: Property Appraiser Annual Report 9.30.2025 (1) Property Appraiser Wesley Davis presented his budget to the Board, noting they were under budgeted by $585,025.43. He explained that his office had open positions awaiting experienced personnel and needed to have the latitude to hire staff, especially considering impending staff retirements. Mr. Davis added that he was able to hire a Certified Appraiser and an additional GIS staffer during this budget cycle. Accepted the Report 10.13. 25-1098 Tax Collector Annual Fiscal Report Attachments: Tax Collector Report AoendaltemFiscalYearEnd25 Combined final Tax Collector Carole Jean Jordan presented her Office's 2025 Excess Fee Report. Ms. Jordan informed the Board that her office was fee-based, and read Florida Statute 195.87 into the record. Finance Director Brad Newman reported the budget figures, noting that $2,586,182 would be returned to the County. Accepted the Report 10.C. 25-1099 Clerk of Circuit Court Annual Fiscal Report Attachments: Clerk Excess Fees FY2025 Final Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller Ryan Butler informed the Board that 98 Indian River County, Florida Page 9 Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final November 18, 2025 percent of the funds being returned represented excess fee revenue received from the Recording Department. After a better-than-expected year, his Office was able to return $592,379.60 to the taxpayers, the largest return in the last 10 years. Accepted the Report 10.D. 25-1100 Sheriff Flowers Budget Request Attachments: IRCSO Reversion letter to BOCC 24.25 rev 11.13.25 Open POs as of 09.30.25 IRCSO Request FY26 Budget- One Time Purchases (submitted w Annual Financial Report) Indian River County Sheriff Eric Flowers referred to his letter dated November 13, 2025, in which he proposed a solution to the ongoing budget disagreement with the Board of County Commissioners. He requested the Board's approval of his proposal to allocate funds to the Sheriffs Office from a variety of sources; the total request was approximately $3.5 million. Under discussion, Vice Chairman Moss advocated balancing fiduciary responsibility with support for the Sheriffs Office and making an effort to repair the relationship. Sheriff Flowers had returned $1,417,951.16 in unspent funds to the County from Fiscal Year (FY) 2024/25, and the Vice Chairman suggested giving back that amount to the Sheriffs Office. County Administrator John Titkanich confirmed he had met with the Sheriff. He noted that of the $1.4 million returned, $495,664.63 were roll-over funds for equipment which had been purchased in FY 2024/25, but not yet received due to manufacturing delays. The Administrator informed the Board that roll-over funds were traditionally returned to the department or office in question. He also mentioned the Sheriffs request for an additional $963,808.69 from the County's reserve for non -annually recurring equipment such as body armor. Chairman Loar received confirmation of the figures from the Administrator, as well as verifying these funds would not re -set the Sheriffs baseline budget. Commissioner Adams requested clarification on Vice Chairman Moss' suggestion. The Vice Chairman made a motion to return to the Sheriff what he would be returning to the County. Vice Chairman Moss made a motion to return $1,417,951.16 in unspent funds from Fiscal Year 2024/25 to the Sheriffs Office. The motion died for lack of a second. Commissioner Earman requested further discussion and a restatement of the Sheriffs proposal. Administrator Titkanich informed the Board that the Sheriffs letter requested his unspent funds be returned to his office in the amount of $1,417,951.16; included in that amount was $495,664.63 of carryover funds for equipment ordered in 2025 but not yet received. The second request from the Sheriff was for the Board Indian River County, Florida Page 10 Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final November 18, 2025 to allocate the approximately $1.1 million in unspent funds received from the Clerk of Court, Property Appraiser, and Supervisor of Elections to the Sheriffs Office. The third funding request was for $963,808.69 from the County's reserves to help purchase equipment, which was not an annually recurring expense. Administrator Titkanich recommended returning at least the $495,664.63 in carryover funds, as this was a common practice for other departments/offices. Commissioner Flescher agreed with returning this amount in the interest of budgetary fairness. Administrator Titkanich confirmed that returning the carryover funds would not reset the Sheriffs baseline budget. The Commissioner made a motion to return those funds only. A motion was made by Commissioner Flescher, seconded by Commissioner Earman, to approve returning $495,664.63 in carryover funds from outstanding Purchase Orders in Fiscal Year 2024/2025. The motion carried by the following vote: Aye: 5 - Chairman Loar, Vice Chairman Moss, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner Flescher, and Commissioner Earman Following the vote, Commissioner Adams asked the Sheriff if his offer to withdraw the appeal and writ of mandamus would still be considered even though the Board did not approve his entire funding request. Sheriff Flowers said no, the legal action would remain in effect because the carryover funds did not get his office where they needed to be budget -wise. 10.E. 25-1102 Supervisor of Elections Annual Fiscal Report Attachments: Supervisor of Election's Excess Fees [Clerk Note: This Item was heard following Item 10. C.J Supervisor of Elections Leslie Swan noted this budget cycle included the 2024 Presidential Election which had an 83 percent turnout. She detailed the measures taken to contact the 28,000 voters whose mail -in ballot requests had expired, saving her office $20,000. Ms. Swan reported returning $68,363 to taxpayers, the largest amount during her tenure. Accepted the Report 10.F. 25-1072 Supervisor of Elections Carpet Replacement Recommended Action: Staff recommends the Supervisor of Election's flooring request for replacement flooring, in the amount of $106,690.06, be approved by the Board of County Commissioners. Attachments: Flooring Proposal County Administrator John Titkanich recalled the discussion and staffs investigation into the Elections office's carpeting, which was determined to need replacing. The Indian River County, Florida Page 11 Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final November 18, 2025 funds would be made available via budget amendment to the General Fund Facilities Management Maintenance account. A motion was made by Commissioner Flescher, seconded by Vice Chairman Moss, to approve staffs recommendation. The motion carried by the following vote: Aye: 5 - Chairman Loar, Vice Chairman Moss, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner Flescher, and Commissioner Earman The Chairman called for a recess at 10:30 a.m., and reconvened the meeting at 10:36 a.m. with all members present. 11. PUBLIC ITEMS A. PUBLIC HEARINGS B. PUBLIC NOTICE ITEMS 12. COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR MATTERS 12.A. 25-1110 Fellsmere Water Control District Recommended Action: Authorize staff to engage in conversations and participate in the review of any legislation proposed to convert the Fellsmere Water Control District to a `dependent special district' with the governing and operational responsibilities transferred to Indian River County. County Administrator John Titkanich informed the Board that following the County's Legislative Delegation Meeting and the approval of its priorities, an important issue had arisen regarding the maintenance of the canals managed by the Fellsmere Water Control District (FWCD). In response to past flooding incidents, which involved coordination between the City of Fellsmere (City), the FWCD and the County, there were discussions about legislative changes to convert the FWCD into a Dependent Special District, which could place its responsibilities under either The City or the County. Representative Brackett requested that an item be brought Board so there could be an opportunity to discuss this as various solutions and options were being considered. The FWCD could potentially be dissolved, leading to challenges in managing canals that cross jurisdictional lines. To protect the County's interests, staff recommended authorization to engage in discussions and review any proposed legislation regarding the transfer of responsibilities from the FWCD to the County. Commissioner Adams, who represented Fellsmere, agreed that a solution involving all Indian River County, Florida Page 12 Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final November 18, 2025 parties was important, and that the County should have representation during the process. The Board agreed with staffs recommendation. Kathy Copeland, Legislative and Communications Director, clarified that Representative Brackett wanted to get a sense of whether the Board thought it best to transition to a Dependent District under the County's control, or to split up the FWCD. County Attorney Shuler discussed the qualities of a Dependent District, noting it could be formed either by Ordinance or legislation, and an Independent District which was formed only through legislation. Commissioner Adams named the Solid Waste Disposal District as an example of an Independent District, adding this would allow for a funding source, County oversight, and would keep the system intact. The City has been in support of this path. Attorney Shuler expressed curiosity as to how the proposals would work considering parts of the FWCD were in the County and in the City. Considering these concerns, discussion was had about the importance of having a seat at the table when the legislation was created. Commissioner Earman suggested some other districts may need to be evaluated in light of the changes since they were created. A motion was made by Commissioner Adams, seconded by Commissioner Earman, to approve staff's recommendation. The motion carried by the following vote: Aye: 5 - Chairman Loar, Vice Chairman Moss, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner Flescher, and Commissioner Earman 13. DEPARTMENTAL MATTERS A. Building and Facilities Services B. Community Services C. Emergency Services D. Human Resources E. Information Technology F. Natural Resources 13.F.1. 25-1069 The Nature Conservancy Runoff to Resilience Pilot Project Recommended Action: Staff recommends that the Board approve a letter of support for state funding for The Nature Conservancy's Runoff to Resilience Pilot Project and authorize the Chair to sign the letter on behalf of the County. Indian River County, Florida Page 13 Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final November 18, 2025 Attachments: Brightstorm-SWNM-Hi-res - Digital R2R Draft Letter Natural Resources Director Kylie Yanchula introduced James Byrne, Director of Strategy and Policy for the Nature Conservancy, who sought support for bringing its Runoff to Resilience Pilot Project to Indian River County. Mr. Byrne used slides to detail the program, which aimed to improve the quality of stormwater from developments before it reached the Indian River Lagoon. The Pilot Project would work with Homeowner Associations (HOAs) to network and monitor their stormwater ponds. Added technology managed water levels to reduce the build-up of nutrients, which would eventually be released into the Lagoon. Much of the program was funded privately, with plans to request legislative funding for infrastructure costs. Mr. Byrne provided additional information on the components of the project that would also help counties reach their BMAP compliance goals. He sought the Board's approval for a letter supporting the funding request. Commissioner Earman added that the Indian River Lagoon Council (IRLC) also supported the Pilot Project which would not require funds from the County. The Commissioner mentioned similar projects in other estuaries. A motion was made by Commissioner Earman, seconded by Vice Chairman Moss, to approve staffs recommendation. The motion carried by the following vote: Aye: 5 - Chairman Loar, Vice Chairman Moss, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner Flescher, and Commissioner Earman G. Office of Management and Budget H. Parks, Recreation, and Conservation 13.H.1. 25-1076 Consideration of a Sale Agreement for the Purchase of the 36.99 -acre Winter Beach 73rd Site through the Environmental Lands Acquisition Bond Recommended Action: Staff respectfully recommends that the Board of County Commissioners approve the "Winter Beach 73rd" Contract Agreement, and authorize staff to proceed with due diligence period and close of the purchase. Attachments: Attachment 1 -Winter Beach -73rd -Assessment Attachment 2 -Winter Beach -73rd -Appraisals Attachment 3 -Winter Beach 73rd - Draft Parks, Recreation, and Conservation Director Beth Powell noted the details of Indian River County, Florida Page 14 Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final November 18, 2025 the "Winter Beach 73rd" property had been presented to the Board previously. The Board was asked for its approval to execute the purchase agreement since the public notice time frame had passed. A motion was made by Commissioner Earman, seconded by Commissioner Flescher, to approve staffs recommendation. The motion carried by the following vote: Aye: 5 - Chairman Loar, Vice Chairman Moss, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner Flescher, and Commissioner Earman 13.H.2. 25-1077 ELAP Ranking List of Environmental Lands Acquisition Properties for Nomination Periods 2 & 3 Recommended Action: Staff respectfully request that the Board of County Commissioners approve the attached ELAP Final Ranking and Tiered List of Nominations and authorize staff to pursue Tier 1 Ranked Properties for acquisition consistent with the Environmental Lands Acquisition Panel's recommendation. Attachments: Table 1 Period 2.pdf Parks, Recreation, and Conservation Director Beth Powell presented the Environmental Land Acquisition Panel's (FLAP) final ranking and tiered list of nominations for periods 2 and 3. In her presentation, Ms. Powell reviewed past bond referendums, the creation of the Program Guide and ELAP, and matrix evaluation factors. A chart of pending agreements showed $19.5 million in expenditures, not including additional costs for appraisals and surveys. The first batch of funds totaled $25 million of the referendum -approved $50 million total. Ms. Powell also informed the Board that staff would leverage the bond funds by applying for grants. Her presentation concluded with a ranking of the next group of Tier 1, 2, and 3 properties nominated for purchase. A motion was made by Commissioner Earman, seconded by Commissioner Flescher, to approve staffs recommendation. The motion carried by the following vote: Aye: 5 - Chairman Loar, Vice Chairman Moss, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner Flescher, and Commissioner Earman 1. Planning and Development Services J. Public Works K. Sandridge Golf Club L. Utilities Services 14. COUNTY ATTORNEY MATTERS Indian River County, Florida Page 15 Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final November 18, 2025 14.A. 25-0987 Indian River County Committees - Annual Member Reappointments for 2026 Attachments: 251104 Committee Members Term Renewal for Jan 2026 251104 Non -Renewal Vacancies Info List - Term Exp Jan 2026 Application Renewal - LandersKenneth (ahac) Resume - Landers Kenneth Application Renewal - MorganLinda (ahac) Resume - MorganLinda Application Renewal - AdairRobertJr (aac) Resume - AdairRobertJr Application Renewal - DeVosSteve (aac) Resume - DeVosSteve Application Renewal - KochRuben (aac) Resume - KochRuben Application Renewal - TripsonCharlotte (aac) Resume - TripsonCharlotte Application Renewal - CoxDavid (bspac) Resume - CoxDavid Application Renewal - SanMiqUel Francisco (bspac) Resume - San MiquelFrancisco Application Renewal - MorganLinda (coc) Application Renewal - ClementsFrankPete (ceb) Resume - ClementsFrankPete Application Renewal - KordiakJames (ceb) Resume -KordiakJames Application Renewal - MyersDavidll (ceb) Resume - MyersDavidll Application Renewal - RigbyArdra (cdbq) Resume - RigbvArdra Application Renewal - RadeckeKathvrn Resume - RadeckeKathvrn Application Renewal - SchuhWilliam (cbaa) Resume - SchuhWilliam Application Renewal - ShorWason (cbaa) Resume - ShortJason Application Renewal - LandersKenneth (Pzc) There was no discussion regarding this item. A motion was made by Commissioner Earman, seconded by Commissioner Indian River County, Florida Page 16 Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final November 18, 2025 Flescher, to approve the list of committee members requesting reappointment as presented. The motion carried by the following vote: Aye: 5 - Chairman Loar, Vice Chairman Moss, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner Flescher, and Commissioner Earman U.B. 25-1071 Disposition of Calcutta Dock Property Recommended Action: Staff recommends the Board declare the riparian land surplus, approve the attached resolution, and dispose of the property via quit claim deed to The Country Club Pointe Dock Association, and authorize the Chairman to execute all documents. Attachments: Unit 1 Plat Unit 2 Plat 2025-11-18 Reso declarinq surplus and disposition (Calcutta) N2 ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION (filing) 2025-11-18 QC Deed to The Country Club Pointe Dock Assoc (0) Affidavit of Publication - Country Club Pointe Deputy County Attorney Susan Prado began by providing context for the disposition of the Calcutta dock property in the Country Club Point neighborhood. Ms. Prado informed the Board that the County had been approached by a new not-for-profit Country Club Pointe Dock Association (Association) requesting that the County use Riverboat Club as a model to deed over title and rights to the Association; the Association would take over management of the docks from the County. Ms. Prado noted the Attorney's Office recommendation was to dispose of the property under State Statute 125.38 because the Association was a not-for-profit organization looking to promote its community's welfare. Additionally, the docks do not hold a public interest as they only serve the members of the County Club Pointe Community. There were three letters submitted from residents in favor of this proposal, and one objection submitted through an attorney representing a homeowner who was on the waitlist for a dock. The Board entered into discussion, with Commissioner Flescher expressing encouragement for a solution. Vice Chairman Moss questioned what would happen to the residents on the waitlist after the turnover. Attorney for the Association, Barry Segal, explained that any owner wanting to get rid of the dock would notify the Association, which would then hold a silent auction; he suggested there would now be an incentive to turn over docks. The funds raised through the sale would go to the owner of the dock to recover the premium paid for their property, which was purchased with a dock. The Vice Chairman suggested the County should be the one to auction the docks. Attorney Segal argued the County did not have anything to sell as it did not own the riparian rights to the water. Attorney Prado informed the Board that a judgment would be required to definitively Indian River County, Florida Page 17 Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final November 18, 2025 determine ownership because the original plat was illegible regarding ownership and maintenance. She added information on the title work that was done on the dock ownership. The Vice Chairman reiterated her rationale for putting the matter before a judge. Attorney Segal confirmed that the docks were not open to the public for use. Attorney Prado stated there was no clear chain of ownership to the docks; the spaces could be turned over to the Association, or allow a judge to decide the ownership question. Vice Chairman Moss read the letter from the attorneys at Block and Scarpa into the record on behalf of their client who objected to the sale. County Attorney Shuler commented on the idea of the County's exposure to legal action, noting it would be the most responsible path to turn over the docks to the Association so they could protect their interests. The Board briefly discussed a similar situation in the Riverboat Club Community, where the County relinquished its riparian rights. Commissioner Earman wanted the County to get out of the business of managing the docks. A motion was made by Commissioner Flescher, seconded by Commissioner Earman, to approve staffs recommendation and Resolution 2025-074, declaring a portion of land located in Country Club Point Subdivision Unit 1 surplus and deeding any and all interest to the Country Club Pointe Dock Association. The motion carried by the following vote: Aye: 4 - Chairman Loar, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner Flescher, and Commissioner Earman Nay: 1 - Vice Chairman Moss 15. COMMISSIONERS MATTERS A. Commissioner Joseph E. Flescher B. Commissioner Deryl Loar 15.8.1. 25-1091 Quarterly Updates from County Administrator & County Attorney Recommended Action: Present Updates. Vice Chairman Moss requested a procedure change to allow the County Administrator and County Attorney to add their reports to the Agenda themselves. Chairman Loar confirmed this was the arrangement for future quarterly reports. County Administrator John Titkanich expressed that it had been a busy year focused on the budget cycle, and he sought to highlight the teamwork of departments, staff, and leadership in promoting the county's mission of service excellence and core values of integrity, responsiveness, and collaboration. He reflected on a year filled with events celebrating the County's Centennial and thanked the staff who made it possible. The Administrator began with updates on Indian River County, Florida Page 18 Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final November 18, 2025 the year's infrastructure and capital projects, including the adoption of the Capital Improvements Plan and the creation of a Building Facility Services Department for in-house management of capital projects. Data was provided showing measurable progress in reduced permit times and improved customer satisfaction. Administrator Titkanich discussed the progress Human Resources made on several key initiatives before providing updates on Planning and Community issues, including the Urban Service Boundary study, Oslo Corridor study, Integrated Water Masterplan, and improvements in Gifford. Investments in the workforce included more than 200 new hires, training and retention programs, and the return of the Health Fair. The Administrator closed his report, noting that while there were still improvements to be made, he was proud of the accomplishments made over the past year. County Attorney Jennifer Shuler started by celebrating the addition of a staff assistant to the team. She informed the Board of her department's initiative to handle more litigation in-house and discussed efforts to expand their expertise. Attorney Shuler then discussed their real estate work, the goal of reviewing and revising the County's code regarding land real estate procedures, and initiatives undertaken by their Land Acquisition and Lease Specialist. She mentioned the upcoming legislative session and their strategy to handle the challenges presented by Senate Bill 180, which would restrict the County's ability to manage development regulations. Lastly, Attorney Shuler reported a sharp increase in public information requests and described staffs commitment to successfully fulfilling them. No Action Taken or Required 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 County resident Vivian Bryant voiced concerns over Solid Waste Management and increased property taxes. She emphasized the financial burden imposed by the charge for universal garbage service, which she did not use, and expressed a belief that her Indian River County, Florida Page 19 Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final November 18, 2025 18. ADJOURNMENT right to due process was not being honored. The Board acknowledged her concerns but maintained that the Solid Waste Assessment had been publicly noticed and adopted; there was no current process for appeal. No Action Taken or Required There being no further business, the Chairman adjourned the meeting at 12:17 p.m. Indian River County, Florida Page 20 Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final November 18, 2025 ATTEST: A4 -e , 0 �e Ryan L. Butler Clerk of Circuit Court and Comptroller By: Deputy Clerk BCC/RW/2025 Minutes e ``,�i CpR1MlSS j��✓�`. Deryl Loar, Chairman 21.. .`9LR/SER CO�N� Approved: January 27, 2026 Indian River County Florida Page 21