HomeMy WebLinkAbout02/24/2026 (2)Indian River County, Florida
Indian River County Administration Complex
1801 27th Street
Vero Beach, Florida 32960
indianriver.gov
ORIOp'
Meeting Minutes - Final
Tuesday, February 24, 2026
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
Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final February 24, 2026
1. CALL TO ORDER
Present: 4 - Chairman Deryl Loar
Vice Chairman Laura Moss
Commissioner Joseph Flescher
Commissioner Joe Earman
Absent: 1 - Commissioner Susan Adams
2.A. A MOMENT OF SILENT REFLECTION FOR FIRST RESPONDERS AND MEMBERS OF
THE ARMED FORCES
2.B. INVOCATION
Rev. Dale Glading, Risk Takers for Christ
3. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Commissioner Susan Adams
4. ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA / EMERGENCY ITEMS
Item 9.L. pulled for discussion
A motion was made by Commissioner Flescher, seconded by Vice Chairman
Moss, to approve the Agenda as amended. The motion carried by the following
vote:
Aye: 4 - Chairman Loar, Vice Chairman Moss, Commissioner Flescher, and Commissioner
Earman
Absent: 1 - Commissioner Adams
5. PROCLAMATIONS and PRESENTATIONS
5.A. 26-0240 Presentation of Proclamation Recognizing African American Pioneers
Calvin "Coach Cal" Moment & Keith "JK" Woulard
Recommended action: Recommend read & present.
Attachments: 02.24.26 African American Pioneers
Coaches Calvin Moment and Keith Woulard were joined by their families as they
were commended for nurturing and prioritizing youth development in the community.
The Commissioners added that coaching was a calling, and spoke of the lifelong
impact of coaches in their own lives.
Read and Presented by Commissioner Flescher
6. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
6.A. 26-0247 Regular Meeting of January 13, 2026
Indian River County, Florida Page 1
Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final February 24, 2026
Recommended Action: Approve
Attachments: 01132026BCC draft
A motion was made by Commissioner Flescher, seconded by Chairman Loar, to
approve the Meeting Minutes of January 13, 2026, as written. The motion carried
by the following vote:
Aye: 4 - Chairman Loar, Vice Chairman Moss, Commissioner Flescher, and Commissioner
Earman
Absent: 1 - Commissioner Adams
7. INFORMATION ITEMS FROM STAFF OR COMMISSIONERS NOT REQUIRING BOARD
ACTION
7.A. 26-0203 Jungle Trail Island Club Manor ELAP Project - Completion of the Due
Diligence Process & Final Closing
Recommended Action: There is no Board action required for this agenda item.
Attachments: IRS -25-617-24x36 Signed
Title Commitment
WTS-25-150691 Copies B1
WTS-25-150691 Copies
25-6091 Jungle Trail Phase I Complete Report 12.17.2025
Compressed
Chairman Loar brought attention to Items 7.A. and 7.13. which detailed the
procurement of land obtained with funds from the Environmental Lands Program.
No Action Taken or Required
7.13. 26-0248 Osprey Estates ELAP Project — Completion of the Due Diligence Process
& Final Closing
Recommended Action: There is no Board action required for this agenda item.
Attachments: 25-525S 012326 S&S
772 Page 1774 Agr
930 Page 2159 D to Cty LessOut
2021 Commitment 4757FL revised (40)
Chain of Title
No Action Taken or Required
8. PUBLIC COMMENT: AGENDA -RELATED MATTERS (EXCEPT FOR PUBLIC
HEARINGS)
William McCaslin thanked the Board for their consideration of opening a fire station in
the Vero Lake Estates area.
No Action Taken or Required
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Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final
9. CONSENT AGENDA
February 24, 2026
A motion was made by Commissioner Flescher, seconded by Chairman Loar, to
approve the Consent Agenda as amended, pulling Item 9.L. for discussion. The
motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 4 - Chairman Loar, Vice Chairman Moss, Commissioner Flescher, and Commissioner
Earman
Absent: 1 - Commissioner Adams
9.A. 26-0183 Waiver of Bid Requirement for Lakeside Raptor Septage Receiving Unit
Recommended Action: Staff recommends the Board waive the requirement forbids and authorize the
Procurement Division to issue a Purchase Order for the plant.
Attachments: Lakeside Quote
Approved staffs recommendation
9.13. 26-0187 Demolition Lien Reduction - 4805 34th Avenue, Vero Beach, FL 32967
Recommended Action: The County Attorney's Office recommends that the Indian River County Board of
County Commissioners waive 90% of the accrued interest, so long as the lien and
10% of the outstanding interest for a total of $3,086.01 is paid within 60 days and
that once paid, the Board authorizes the Chairman to execute a release of the lien.
Attachments: Lien OR1128 PG2046 -4805 34th Ave 32967
4805 34th Ave 32967 (Preserve Waterway) Demo Lien Reduction
Approved staffs recommendation
9.C. 26-0193 First Extension and Amendment to Agreement for Annual Temporary
Staffing Services (Bid 2025027)
Recommended Action: Staff recommends the Board approve the first extension and amendment to the
agreement with the above listed vendors and authorize the Chairman to execute it
after the County Attorney has approved it as to form and legal sufficiency.
Attachments: First Extension and Amendment - Annual Temp Staffing
Approved staffs recommendation
9.D. 26-0216 Award of Request for Proposal 2026003 Utilities Technology Master Plan
and Customer Information System Consulting Services to EMA, Inc.,
IRCDUS Project ID: 00.25.513 and 00.25.521
Recommended action: Staff recommends that the Board of County Commissioners Award Request for
Proposals 2026003 for Utilities Technology Master Plan and Customer Information
System Consulting Services to EMA, Inc. for a fee of $518,803.00, approve the
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Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final February 24, 2026
attached Sample Agreement, and authorize the Chair to execute it after review and
approval by the County Attorney as to form and legal sufficiency.
Attachments: Sample Agreement
Approved staffs recommendation
9.E. 26-0220 Miscellaneous Budget Amendment 03
Recommended Action: Staff recommends the Board of County Commissioners approve the budget resolution
amending the fiscal year 2025-26 budget.
Attachments: 2025 2026 Resolution
Exhibit A
Approved staffs recommendation and Resolution 2026-011, amending the Fiscal
Year 2025-2026 Budget.
9.F. 26-0221 Work Order No. 2018006-23 - APTIM Sector 3 Hurricanes Ian and Nicole
Dune Restoration Project - 2026 Environmental Monitoring
Recommended Action: Staff recommends the BCC authorize Work Order No. 2018006-23 in the total lump
sum amount of $466,466.72. Additionally, staff recommends the BCC authorize the
Chairman to execute Work Order No. 2018006-23 after review and approval of the
agreement by the County Attorney as to form and legal sufficiency.
Attachments: Work Order No 2018006-23 Agreement with Exhibit A
Approved staffs recommendation
9.G. 26-0222 Work Order No. 2018029-15 - APTIM Sector 5 Hurricanes Ian and Nicole
Beach and Dune Restoration Project - 2026 Environmental Monitoring
Recommended action: Staff recommends the BCC authorize Work Order No. 2018029-15 in the not to
exceed amount of $289,684.18. Additionally, staff recommends the BCC authorize
the Chairman to execute Work Order No. 2018029-15 after review and approval of
the agreement by the County Attorney as to form and legal sufficiency.
Attachments: Work Order No 2018029-15 Agreement with Exhibit A
Approved staff's recommendation
9.H. 26-0225 Work Order No. 2023051-6 - Coastal Tech Sector 4 Hurricanes Ian and
Nicole Dune Restoration Project - Year 1 Post -Construction Monitoring
Recommended Action: Staff recommends the BCC authorize Work Order No. 2023051-6 which is not to
exceed $264,179.01. Additionally, staff recommends the BCC authorize the
Chairman to execute Work Order No. 2023051-6 after review and approval of the
agreement by the County Attorney as to form and legal sufficiency.
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Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final February 24, 2026
Attachments: Work Order No 2023051-6 Agreement with Exhibit 1 REV
Approved staff's recommendation
9.1. 26-0228 Award of Bid 2026015 for Operations of the Biosolids Dewatering Facility,
Sludge Dewatering and Hauling
Recommended Action: Staff recommends the Board award Bid 2026015 to Synagro South, LLC, approve
the sample agreement and authorize the Chairman to execute the agreement after
receipt and approval of the required public construction bond and insurance and after
approval by the County Attorney as to form and legal sufficiency.
Attachments: Sample Agreement and Contract Documents
Approved staff's recommendation
9.J. 26-0231 Final Pay for Work Order No.2 for Arcadis, U.S., Inc. for Consulting and
Support Services for the Department of Utility Services Computerized
Maintenance Management System, IRCDUS Project ID: 00.23.541
Recommended Action: Staff recommends that the Board approve final pay 36101742 to Arcadis, U.S., Inc.
for W02 in the amount of $466.05 for CMMS readiness assessment services. Upon
approval the remaining obligation will be closed.
Attachments: Final Invoice Arcadis CMMS Progress Report
Approved staffs recommendation
9.K. 26-0234 Barbara Williams Foreclosure Settlement
Recommended Action: The County Attorney's Office recommends that the Board approve the settlement
agreement and, pursuant to the terms of the agreement, authorize staff to write off the
uncollectible account balance, process the relinquishment of impact fees, and release
the lien if Ms. Williams pays the agreed amount.
Attachments: Barbara Williams Foreclosure Settlement
Approved staff's recommendation
9.L. 26-0235 Hampton Park PD Phase 2
Request from Developer, Meritage Homes of Florida, Inc., for an Extension
to Complete Required Improvements
Recommended Action: Approve the attached Modification to Contract for Construction of Required
Improvements No. PD -21-04-04 (2004040192-96959) to extend the completion
date to February 25, 2027, for the remaining required improvements and authorize
the Chairman to execute same.
Attachments: Letter Requesting Extension - Hampton Park PD Phase 2
Modification extension - Hampton Park PD Phase 2
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Board of Countv Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final
February 24, 2026
County Administrator John Titkanich explained that the developer of Hampton Park
PD Phase 2 sought an extra year to finish site improvements due to damage
experienced prior to the home construction phase.
Deputy County Attorney Susan Prado further detailed that cracks in the curbing were
observed before home construction had begun, and there was concern for further
damage as construction ramped up. The developer requested an extension of one
year to complete the curb improvements that were required under County code.
Attorney Prado added that the developer had just delivered a new letter of credit and
an executed Developer's Agreement.
A motion was made by Commissioner Flescher, seconded by Commissioner
Earman, to approve staffs recommendation. The motion carried by the following
vote:
Aye: 4 - Chairman Loar, Vice Chairman Moss, Commissioner Flescher, and Commissioner
Earman
Absent: 1 - Commissioner Adams
9.M. 26-0237 Indian River County Everside Health Center - Assignment and First
Amendment to the Everside Client Agreement
Recommended Action: Staff respectfully request the Board of County Commissioners approve the
Assignment and First Amendment to our Everside Client Agreement and authorize the
Chairman to execute the amendment after review by the County Attorney for legal
sufficiency.
Attachments: Assignment & 1st Amendment to Everside Client Agreement
Approved staffs recommendation
9.N. 26-0243 Replacement Modular Unit for Fire Station 15
Recommended Action: Staff recommends the Board approve the unbudgeted capital purchase, edit the
requirement for bids, and authorize the Procurement Division to issue a purchase
order for the unit. Staff also recommends the Board declare the current modular unit,
asset 28288 as excess, and authorize its demolition.
Attachments: Advanced Modular Quote
Demolition and Disposal Quote
Approved staffs recommendation
9.0. 26-0233 Acceptance of Proposed Donation for Children's Week Event
Recommended Action: Staff recommends the Board accept the John's Island Community Service League
donation.
Indian River County, Florida Page 6
Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final February 24, 2026
Attachments: Donation Letter. UnitedWaylRC.2026
Children's Week Flyer 2026
GIA Save The Date Card
Approved staffs recommendation
10. CONSTITUTIONAL OFFICERS and GOVERNMENTAL AGENCIES
It. PUBLIC ITEMS
A. PUBLIC HEARINGS
PROOF OF PUBLICATION FOR THESE HEARINGS IS ON FILE IN THE
OFFICE OF THE CLERK TO THE BOARD.
11.A.1. 26-0229 Application for Operating Assistance (Section 5307) from the Federal
Transit Administration
Recommended Action: Staff recommends that the Board of County Commissioners adopt the resolution
authorizing the filing of the grant application for the Section 5307 funds.
Attachments: Grant Application
Resolution
Budget Form
MPO Staff Director Brian Freeman explained that assistance under Section 5307
of the Federal Transit Administration provided the single largest funding source for
operation of the County's public transportation system, which included the GoLine
and Community Coach. Mr. Freeman noted the State had unused funds from
Fiscal Year 2021, and a portion of those funds were made available to the
County via this application process; the funds amounted to $712,014.
The Chairman opened the public hearing for comments. There being none, the
Chairman closed the public hearing.
A motion was made by Commissioner Earman, seconded by Commissioner
Flescher, to approve staffs recommendation and Resolution 2026-012,
authorizing the filing of applications for Grant Funding Assistance from the
Federal Transit Administration. The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 4 - Chairman Loar, Vice Chairman Moss, Commissioner Flescher, and
Commissioner Earman
Absent: 1 - Commissioner Adams
11.A.2. 26-0244 Hiers Properties, L.L.C.'s Request to Rezone Approximately ±18.08
Acres from A-1, Agricultural District to RS -3, Single -Family Residential
District
Recommended Action: Based on the analysis and conclusions outlined in this report, County Planning
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Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final February 24, 2026
staff and the Planning and Zoning Commission recommend that the Board of
County Commissioners approve an ordinance to rezone the f 18.08 acres of
subject properties from A-1 to RS -3.
Attachments: Rezoning Map
Future Land Use Map
Zoning Comparison Table
Rezoning Application
Draft Ordinance
Following Chairman Loar's introduction of the Item, County Attorney Jennifer
Shuler added information. She explained that this matter had been brought before
the Board on January 13, 2026, where a quasi-judicial hearing was held and
voted upon. Following the meeting, however, it was realized that the adopting
Ordinance was inadvertently omitted from the agenda packet, and the official
record. Attorney Shuler recommended the Board reopen the January 13th public
hearing, allow staff to present the Ordinance as additional evidence, and accept
public comment. The Deputy Clerk administered the Oath to all persons who
wished to speak at the hearing.
Commissioner Flescher received confirmation from Attorney Shuler that this was
a continuance, and the Board did not have to re -state their ex parte disclosures.
Chairman Loar summarized that this was the third hearing for this matter and the
facts were the same.
Patrick Murphy, Chief of Long -Range Planning, provided a recap of the analysis
presented at the January 13th meeting, and noted the presentation was
unchanged.
The Chairman opened the public hearing for comments. There being none, the
Chairman closed the public hearing.
Mr. Murphy commented that the developer originally sought to develop this
parcel as a PD (Planned Development), but failed to receive approval. Staff
recommended the RS -3 rezoning (Single -Family Residential) with 2.2 units per
acre, which was consistent with the development pattern in the area.
Vice Chairman Moss questioned the discrepancy in staffs reporting of the vote
from the January 13, 2026, public hearing. The minutes showed a 5-0 vote, while
staff reported the vote as being 4-1. She added that the video was not available at
the time for confirmation. [Clerk Note: The vote at the January 13, 2026,
public hearing was confirmed to be 5-0.]
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Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final February 24, 2026
Liz Diaz with Mills, Short and Associates appeared before the Board on behalf of
the Applicant. There were no questions for her.
A motion was made by Commissioner Flescher, seconded by Chairman Loar,
to approve staffs recommendation and adopt Ordinance 2026-004, amending
the Zoning Ordinance and the accompanying Zoning Map for 18.082 acres
located on the south side of 8th Street, approximately 0.5 miles east of 58th
Avenue, from A-1, Agricultural District, to RS -3, Single -Family Residential
District; and providing codification, severability, and effective date. The
motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 4 - Chairman Loar, Vice Chairman Moss, Commissioner Flescher, and
Commissioner Earman
Absent: 1 - Commissioner Adams
11.A.3. 26-0245 Final Adoption of the 2025 Indian River County Comprehensive Plan
Evaluation and Appraisal Report (EAR) Based Amendments
Recommended action: County Staff recommends the Board approve the attached comprehensive plan
EAR -based amendments, approve and adopt the attached final adopting
ordinance, and direct County staff to transmit the County's Comprehensive Plan
EAR -based amendments with the final adopting ordinance to Florida Department
of Commerce.
Attachments: 2025 EAR Final Adoption Staff Report
Exhibit A - EAR Amendment Matrix
FL Commerce Letter
DRAFT Ordinance
Chief of Long -Range Planning Patrick Murphy noted this Item had been brought
before the Board on January 13, 2026, but did not contain the Ordinance for the
Board's review. He used slides to present a recap of the timeline for the
Comprehensive Plan EAR (Evaluation and Appraisal Report) based amendments,
which were discussed in depth at the September 9, 2025, BCC meeting. The
amended EAR, which included changes from Florida Commerce, would be
transmitted to the State following final adoption at this second public hearing.
Vice Chairman Moss inquired whether Policy 1.38, New Town Land Use
Designations, was the only place that height restrictions appeared in the
Comprehensive Plan. Mr. Murphy explained that the 35 -foot height limit was
included in the Land Development Regulations for all commercial and residential
districts. The Vice Chairman received confirmation that the restriction applied to
all development, even though it was only mentioned under Section 1.38. Vice
Chairman Moss also expressed disappointment that Policy 2.6, USGS evaluation,
had been stricken, as well as concern for diminished open space requirements.
The Chairman opened the public hearing for comments from the Board or the
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Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final February 24, 2026
public. There being none, the Chairman closed the public hearing.
A motion was made by Commissioner Flescher, seconded by Commissioner
Earman, to approve staff's recommendation and adopt Ordinance 2026-005, to
amend certain policies, goals, and objectives throughout the Indian River
County's Comprehensive Plan to reflect statutory changes; to update
numerical references; to consolidate policies; to move previously
incorporated, provisions to the County's Land Development Regulations
which is the more appropriate location for such regulatory language; to
address evaluation and appraisal review modifications; and to adopt general
updates to certain policies; by amending Chapter 2, Future Land Use
Element, Chapter 3A, Sanitary Sewer Sub -Element, Chapter 36, Potable
Water Sub -Element, Chapter 3C, Solid Waste Sub -Element, Chapter 31),
Natural Groundwater Sub -Element, Chapter 3E, Stormwater Management
Sub -Element, Chapter 4, Transportation Element, Chapter 5 Economic
Development Element, Chapter 6, Capital Improvements Element, Chapter 7
Housing Element, Chapter 8, Conservation Element, Chapter 9, Coastal
Management Element, Chapter 10, Recreation and Open Space Element,
Chapter 11, Intergovernmental Coordination Element, Chapter 12, Public
Schools Facilities Element, and Chapter 13, Property Rights Element;
providing for codification into the Indian River County Comprehensive Plan;
providing for correction of scrivener's errors; and providing for an effective
date. The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 3 - Chairman Loar, Commissioner Flescher, and Commissioner Earman
Nay: 1 - Vice Chairman Moss
Absent: 1 - Commissioner Adams
B. PUBLIC NOTICE ITEMS
12. COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR MATTERS
12.A. 26-0252 Legislative Update - Fellsmere Water Control District
Recommended Action: Receive Update and Offer Guidance
[Clerk Note: Commissioner Adams joined the meeting for this Item via
telephone]
Legislative Affairs and Communications Director Kathy Copeland provided the
Board with updates regarding legislation to establish the dependent Fellsmere Water
Control District (FWCD) through House Bills 4095 and 4093. She emphasized the
establishment of the FWCD was a transfer of governance; it would not be subsidized
by the County.
Since the last presentation before the Board on January 27, 2026, HB 4095 was
amended to acknowledge a 2007 Fellsmere Annexation Agreement. Additionally,
residents of Fellsmere expressed their concerns to Representative Robbie Brackett
which included expenditures related to management of canals and ditches, fears over
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Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final February 24, 2026
assessment hikes, and misuse of canals and rights-of-way; residents also requested a
citizen advisory committee. The presentation closed with a slide detailing staffs
recommendation for an Interlocal Agreement with the Fellsmere Joint Venture.
No Action Taken
Before continuing to the next Item, County Attorney Jennifer Shuler addressed the
Board noting staffs recommendation for an Interlocal Agreement (ILA) required the
Board's approval. Because the recommendation was not initially on the Agenda,
Attorney Shuler advised an action item could be added to this agenda with a
unanimous vote. She added that the ILA should be subject to the review and
approval of the County Attorney, and be brought back to the Board for ratification.
Alternately, the Board could hold a special meeting to approve staffs
recommendation.
Commissioner Flescher noted that Commissioner Adams was participating via
telephone, and received confirmation from Attorney Shuler that the Commissioner
was allowed to vote on an Item remotely.
A motion was made by Commissioner Flescher, seconded by Chairman Loar, to
add an action Item which would authorize the County Administrator to execute
an Interlocal Agreement between the County and the FJV [Fellsmere Joint
Venture]. It would take effect upon passage of HB4093/4095, outlining protocols
for the transfer during the gap period between passage of the bill and when the
bill becomes law. For example, consultation on decisions involving
expenditures. The agreement would also delineate assets to be transferred
including the reserve account, equipment, the office, contracts, and any other
items deemed appropriate and not included in the Bill language. The Agreement
would be subject to review and approval by the County Attorney and return
before the Board for ratification. 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 9:51 a.m., and reconvened the meeting at 10:00
a.m. with all members present, except Commissioner Adams.
13. DEPARTMENTAL MATTERS
A. Building and Facilities Services
B. Community Services
C. Emergency Services
D. Human Resources
E. Information Technology
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Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final February 24, 2026
F. Natural Resources
13.F.1. 26-0226 Economic Impact of the Indian River Lagoon and Stakeholder
Workshops
Recommended action: Staff recommends that the Board of County Commissioners approve staff to host
two stakeholder workshops, one focused on the Lagoon Management Plan and
the other focused on the Central Indian River Lagoon Basin Management Action
Plan.
Attachments: 2025 Indian River Lagoon Economic Valuation
Natural Resources Director Kylie Yanchula introduced the Item and two guest
speakers: Dr. Duane DeFreese, Executive Director of the Lagoon Council
(Council) and the Indian River Lagoon National Estuary Program (IRLNEP), and
Courtney Cortez, Economist with the Balmoral Group.
Dr. DeFreese presented details of a recently approved $9.4 million grant from the
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) for Indian River
Lagoon restoration projects. The County would receive a portion of the NOAA
grant for two projects: Big Slough and Preacher's Hole Seagrass Restoration, and
construction of the Bee Gum Impoundment which would help revitalize the living
shoreline. The County's work on seagrass restoration, which has shown early
progress, was considered a model for the area.
Ms. Cortez then presented the Balmoral Group's Indian River Lagoon Economic
Impact Update, an IRLNEP-commissioned study, which added projects
receiving NOAA grant funds. The presentation focused on ecosystem service
values, providing quantifiable data showing expenditures to improve the Lagoon's
health yielded a 24x return on investment, and added hundreds of millions of
dollars to the County's local economy.
The Board members each expressed their opinions on the value of the information
presented, noting the positive economic and ecological benefits from restoration
efforts, concern for development along the lagoon, the value of quantified data,
and the positive progress of seagrass restoration.
Ms. Yanchula closed with a discussion of updates to the Lagoon Management
Plan, local infrastructure projects, and efforts to improve water quality. She
provided rationale for developing stakeholder support for local initiatives, and
reviewed staff s recommendation for two workshops to unify efforts and leverage
resources. Dr. DeFreese offered the support of his organizations, noting that
Indian River County was one of the two fastest-growing counties in the State.
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Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final February 24, 2026
A motion was made by Commissioner Earman, seconded by Commissioner
Flescher, to approve staffs recommendation. The motion carried by the
following vote:
Aye: 4 - Chairman Loar, Vice Chairman Moss, Commissioner Flescher, and
Commissioner Earman
Absent: 1 - Commissioner Adams
G. Office of Management and Budget
H. Parks, Recreation, and Conservation
I. Planning and Development Services
13.1.1. 26-0223 Authorization to revise the Indian River County Local Jobs Grant
Program for future consideration of the Board of County
Commissioners.
Recommended Action: Staff recommends that the Board of County Commissioners authorize staff to
revise the Indian River County Local Jobs Grant Program and the associated
grant agreement for consideration at a future meeting of the Board of County
Commissioners
Attachments: Existing Jobs Grant Application
Economic Development Manager Doug Dombroski used a slide deck to present
staffs analysis of the County's Local Jobs Grant Program (Program) as part of a
wider effort to enhance the County's Economic Development Programs. The
report provided an overview and a 10 -year evaluation showing the Program was
underperforming. Feedback from business owners was critical of the Program's
weak return on investment, time-consuming reporting, confusing agreements, and
complex calculations. The Economic Development Council (EDC) recommended
that the Board authorize revisions to the Program.
Commissioner Moss noted that the grant provided 75% of an average $55,000
salary, which seemed too low to be effective. Mr. Dombroski shared that the
EDC lowered the threshold during the recession, and it would be reviewed in the
context of current conditions.
A motion was made by Commissioner Flescher, seconded by Vice Chairman
Moss, to approve staffs recommendation. The motion carried by the
following vote:
Aye: 4 - Chairman Loar, Vice Chairman Moss, Commissioner Flescher, and
Commissioner Earman
Absent: 1 - Commissioner Adams
Indian River County, Florida Page 13
Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final February 24, 2026
The Chairman called for a recess at 11:02 a.m., and reconvened the meeting at 11:08
a.m. with all members present, except Commissioner Adams.
J. Public Works
K. Sandridge Golf Club
L. Utilities Services
13.L.1. 26-0218 Approval for Process Waste Drain Line Replacement at Headworks
Project at Gifford Water Reclamation Facility, IRCDUS Project ID
22.25.508
Recommended action: Staff recommends that the Indian River County Board of County Commissioners
approve the Department of Utility Services to undertake the Process Waste Drain
Line Replacement at Headworks project (Project ID 22.25.508) at Gifford
Water Reclamation Facility outside of the proposed Capital Improvement
Element, for the estimated cost of $532,875.00.
Utility Services Director Sean Lieske informed the Board of new developments in
his department's project to repair a drain line at the Gifford Water Reclamation
Facility. He showed the line was originally planned for rehabilitation by replacing
its lining, however during pre -constructing evaluation, it was determined the pipe
was more deteriorated than originally assumed. Staff determined the pipe needed
to be fully replaced which would incur engineering services not included in the
original project. Mr. Lieske discussed the option to reallocate funding from a filter
project which experienced equipment delays.
A motion was made by Commissioner Eannan, seconded by Commissioner
Flescher, to approve staffs recommendation. The motion carried by the
following vote:
Aye: 4 - Chairman Loar, Vice Chairman Moss, Commissioner Flescher, and
Commissioner Earman
Absent: 1 - Commissioner Adams
14. COUNTY ATTORNEY MATTERS
15. COMMISSIONERS MATTERS
A. Commissioner Deryl Loar, Chairman
B. Commissioner Laura Moss, Vice Chairman
C. Commissioner Susan Adams
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Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final February 24, 2026
D. Commissioner Joseph E. Flescher
E. Commissioner Joseph H. Earman
16. SPECIAL DISTRICTS AND BOARDS
A. Emergency Services District
B. Solid Waste Disposal District
The Board of County Commissioners reconvened as the Board of Commissioners
of the Solid Waste Disposal District. The minutes will be approved at an
upcoming Solid Waste Disposal District meeting.
16.6.1. 26-0239 Updated 2nd Amendment to Solid Waste and Recyclables Collection
Franchise Agreement between SWDD and Waste Management, Inc. of
Florida
Recommended action: Staff recommends that the Solid Waste Disposal District (SWDD) Board
approve the Second Amendment to the Solid Waste ad Recycling Collection
Franchise Agreement between SWDD and WM; and authorize the Chairman to
execute the agreement.
Attachments: Updated 2nd Amendment to Franchise with WM
Indian River County Supplemental Fees -101525
Solid Waste Disposal District Managing Director Himanshu Mehta presented the
updated Second Amendment to the contract between the Solid Waste Disposal
District and Waste Management. The item had been brought to the Board on
December 9, 2025, where the decision was made to postpone discussion and
further negotiate yard waste cart exemptions.
Mr. Mehta listed the changes to the yard waste cart exemption policy: existing
exemptions for planned communities would continue until July 31, 2026, when a
new annual agreement would be signed; individual residents would be able to opt
in for service starting October 1, 2026; delivery of the cart and weekly service
would be at no additional cost to the individual resident. He displayed a recap of
the other changes the Second Amendment of the contract which had been
discussed at the December 9, 2025, Board meeting.
A motion was made by Commissioner Flescher, seconded by Commissioner
Earman, to approve staff's recommendation. The motion carried by the
following vote:
Aye: 4 - Chairman Loar, Vice Chairman Moss, Commissioner Flescher, and
Commissioner Earman
Absent: 1 - Commissioner Adams
Indian River County, Florida Page 15
Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final February 24, 2026
C. Environmental Control Board
17. PUBLIC COMMENT: NON -AGENDA -RELATED MATTERS
18. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, the Chairman adjourned the meeting at 11:27 a.m.
Indian River County, Florida Page 16
Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final February 24, 2026
ATTEST:
Ryan L. Butler
Clerk of Circuit Court and Comptroller
BCC/RW/2026 Minutes
"�p1,1MISS`,
Deryl Loar, Chairman '?09 • 1 s
Approved: April 7, 2026
Indian River County Florida Page 17