You have your timing on right. >> Good morning. [clears throat] Today is February 10th, 2026. [snorts] We will now convene the board of county commission meeting. Please rise for the invocation, which I'll be doing the invocation today, followed by the pledge of allegiance.
by Commissioner Flesh. First, a moment of silence for our first responders and law enforcement. Dear heavenly father, we thank you for this wonderful day that you've blessed us again with nearly perfect weather. Father, we know the last few weeks
you've tested us. And Father, we know as resilient folks and resilient members of Indian River County, we rise to the occasion. Father, today we ask that you continue to bless our first responders, our military. We ask that you provide a
hedge of protection around each and every one of them. Father, as you know, last week we recognized several of our public servants from 15 to 35 years of service. And Father, without your grace, they would not be able to perform the
duties that they have. Father, your word tells us to be humble. Humble yourselves before the Lord and he will lift you. Father, we ask that you guide us and direct us as we are commissioned to do our jobs.
Father, we say all of this in your son's name. Amen. >> Amen. >> Ladies and gentlemen, please join me in the pledge of allegiance to the greatest nation on earth, the United States of America, home of the free because of the brave. I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to
the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. >> Thank you all. >> All right. Welcome again. As we
start, we will recognize any additions or deletions to the agenda. Oh boy. [snorts] Commissioners. Yes, sir. Uh 7B Osprey Estates ELAP project. Uh we're going to be pulling that for the
purposes of there's some additional due diligence that may need to be be completed and we will work with the property owner on that. Uh we're going to be pulling 9H or requesting 9H the amendment to the interlocal agreement with the state attorney victims service program related
to the sexual assault assistance program. The state attorney is reviewing and have a change to the interlocal agreement between us and the counties. And then the other is be will be pulling uh item 15e1
uh waterway village 18 acre potential for housing use. Also, uh, Mr. Administrator, are we moving 7D to 13? >> Oh, that is correct, sir. We are moving. Thank you. We are moving 7D to 13B1
and then we are adding uh to the uh attorney's office 14A1 about ELAP on the hail and the Durant properties. So, I think you all received that agenda item. We're requesting to
add that. Misters, any comments? Mr. >> Chair Chairman, I'd like to make a little reason of why we're >> Yes, sir. >> requesting to move take 15e1 off the agenda today and not bring it back. This
u this item was intended to be a discussion with all my fellow commissioners about the possibility of looking maybe creating a a very nice development for our public safety professionals, nurses, and teachers. So they had an affordable place to live starting their careers as uh this was
free land [clears throat] and the county would be getting it back and free land is the key to uh driving down the cost of any home or development especially when we're talking to make it affordable. The first smell test would have been discussions among staff for
preliminary ideas and then presented to the surrounding neighborhoods. The idea would have been would have then been submitted to organizations that help us do these kind of things along with designers, engineer and architects hopefully at a probe owner or reduced
rate. Then um the request for proposals would be put out to builders locally and even those such as Devasta and PY who built the uh subdivision and the development in that area who has expressed an interest in doing a project like this. The thoughts
were to do this outside of the bureaucracy as much as possible while of course still following the codes, laws, and ordinances. This process would have taken a few years, I'm sure. It was never intended to be a lowcost section 8 housing project or anything close. The
idea was to be a community that would fit in and even enhance the surrounding area where young essential professionals could start families and then move on to something even better after a few years and their wages increased. Obviously, it did not pass the first smell test and uh
I understand why. So I am going I requested to the county administrator to remove this item from the agenda for today and not bring it back due to the lack of cons due to the concerns of the surrounding residents and communities. Hopefully in 2028 when it will revert
back to the county from the school board we can discuss some type of open green space park even a dog park or something of that that nature to be utilized by all the citizens in the county. And I thank you and I apologize for y'all getting all the emails. wasn't expected. Like I said, I thought we'd have a
discussion, but that's uh that's my story and I'm sticking to it. So, well said. So, thank you. >> Thank you. We have a motion and I believe we have a second from uh Commissioner Flesher. Any further comments by board? Hearing none. All in
favor? >> I. [clears throat] >> Commissioners, that moves us to uh proclamations and presentations. And as you should be aware and are aware, uh, every year we recognize February as
Black History Month. And today, Commissioner Flesher is honored, uh, to recognize one of our long-standing pioneers. And I see a family members are here, Mr. Victor Hart. Commissioner.
>> Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Uh yes, as you stated uh this is the month in which we recognize and generally it's individuals who were pioneers who set it forth who added to the way of life in which we
have here in Indian River County and uh we always uh review and select those who have had a significant impact. Today goes well beyond that. well beyond significant impact.
The mark of uh achievement is to leave a legacy. This individual has left more than a legacy. He was ubiquitous. even if he wasn't in the room,
ever present, unbelievable driving force in our community. I had the honor to meet Victor Hart early on and it was a
rather humorous and uh different type of meeting. uh and uh I've articulated on that in the past, but I want to want to say that
over the years, Victor Hart has taught all of us something. He has had a significant impact on each and every one of us. He became
the legend, the household name. Even people who didn't live here, once they arrived, they knew who Victor Hart was. That's the mark of achievement. He had a driving force that very few
people possess. And I I believe that. And in his words, he said, I said, "I I would have loved to have been around during your earlier years."
And he said, "Not everybody liked it." And he laughed. And you know, Victor taught a lot of things to individuals with very few words. And it reminds me of when we
dedicated the Victor Hart complex. When we dedicated that complex, he was beaming. He was beaming because he loved the caricature on the monument stone.
And he said, "Well, I guess they're not going to forget Victor." Because it looked remarkably like him. It was a great caricature. And I said, "You don't need that monument for people to remember you.
It's just a reminder." And he responded in his colloquial fashion. He said, "Nothing." But he did something that was his trademark.
He looked at it and he said, and I knew that he was well satisfied. What an incredible, incredible individual and tireless right to the end in which he then took off to be with the Lord.
And we know that's where he is. [snorts] I'll proceed with the proclamation. Can we come on up to the I knew we would have a few hearts today. Uh Victor made sure that we were covered with hearts.
There's quite a few. And thank you for being here today. like to present this proclamation honoring Victor Hart Senior. Whereas Victor Hart senior born in 1931 in Old Bride Settlement in Cat Island,
Bahamas, journeyed to the Gford in 1953 where he dedicated his life to uplifting the community and whereas he fearlessly confronted the injustice of segregation,
organizing the Progressive Civic League and serving as the longest president of the Indie River County NAACP chapter, thereby opening doors of opportunity for countless residents. And through his
humble yet in unflinching leadership, he brought lasting improvements to GFID, including clean water, paved roads, street lights, medical and community centers, and the Gford Youth Achievement
Center, and the park that now bears his name. Whereas he lived his values authentically and unapologetically, instilling [clears throat] integrity, respect, and civic responsibility in his
family and neighbors, reminding all that I can disagree with you, but I don't have to be disagreeable. Whereas his legacy was formally recognized when Gford Park was renamed
the Victor Hart Senior Community Enhancement Complex. The first countyowned facility named for a person of color, a permanent testament of these decades of service.
Now therefore, be it proclaimed by the board of county commissioners of Indie River County, Florida, that we honor Victor Hart Senior's unwavering courage and selflessness, devotion to his community, celebrate his enduring
contributions to justice, and pledged to carry forward the values he embodied with humility, integrity, and love for people of Gford. duly adopted this 10th day of February, 2026.
And this proclamation is signed by all five county commissioners. >> Good morning. >> Morning. Welcome. >> Good morning. Good morning. Um, just want to say a few words if you don't mind. Uh, my family really
appreciate the Indian River County. Oh, my bad. Thank you, brother. My name is Michael Hart. You know, there's quite a few of us. So you gonna always get them mixed up. So even dad used to get us mixed up growing up. So So I just want to thank everyone on the board itself,
the county commissioners. Um I want to thank everyone in the community itself because we was raised that it, you know, take a village to raise a child but also help out adults too. Um as our upbringing like you're saying with our dad, we never knew boundaries. We never
knew color or anything that he never promoted to us. We was all people >> and um as we grow and we try to teach our kids and people that we do come in contact with he just didn't make his boundaries just narrow down to the GIF area he also love the county was from
Fails to the Vero Highlands you know he cared about the county as a whole and he just didn't you know pinpoint certain areas um I'm cutting it short but I just want to again just to thank everyone and all the hard work that he did and he
never thought twice about what he was doing. It was always automatic what he was doing and he felt like with God being on his side and that's what's guided him through his life until his last breath. So once again I just want to thank everyone. >> Thank you very much Mike.
>> Also Wilfford Hart also we want to thank the uh Democratic club. You know my father was a Democrat. My mother was a Democrat. Uh my father knew nothing about politics in America when he came over and my mother really was the the
the the forerunner of my father. My f my mother was really big in the Democratic party and daddy was driving her everywhere. And um so one day one of the leaders of the Democratic party said, "Victor Hart, you might as well just get
involved uh with the party." And he did. Uh there's a few people up here today I would like to uh thank you especially the the a lot of folks call him man
growing up we call him man and man family and my family we are very very very very close his mother and my mother his father and my father go way back before they became Republicans they were
Democrats so I'm telling on you And so so we were very very very very close. Herman oil and all that. We were associated with that family and very very close. And see this young man up here, Joseph Flesher, Commissioner Fletcher, he was he was one of those
very instrumental in getting the complex, Victor Senior Community Enhancement Complex named after my father. And he stuck with that with that project all the way to the finish. and and uh he's always called daddy daddy or
chief and my father for some unknown reason loved him like the dickens like our own son and he told us to stick with him regardless of how he talk all that mess sometime always told us that stick with Joseph Fletcher and so we have
never ever turned our back on you we going to love you forever and the former sheriff and the current commissioner I'll never forget the night on your second election when we were all at the victory party and you grabbed my dad and
you hugged him and you told him, "Victor, thank you. I never would have won without the gift of community." And this family has never ever forgotten what you said to my dad. And that's why we're so
obligated and so thankful to you. And so on behalf of my father, we're we're very happy to say thank you to this community, to this Democratic party, Republican party. It didn't matter if you're a Democrat or Republican. Dad always say vote for the best candidate.
And so you look at my record today, I vote for the best candidate. And so and that's how we were raised. And again, we just want to tell you thank you. Thank you for constantly recognizing my father when others even in the black community don't want to recognize my father
anymore. But you promised me something, Joe Fletcher, that we're not going to never let Victor Hart senior name go dead and I really appreciate you for that. And I say thank you. Thank you. I >> I don't think it's possible for the
impact that he had on all of us. And uh I I think this represents the fourth proclamation that Victor is going to get. Um we we did recognize him many years ago. We recognize him at the park. Um and his celebration of life. We
replicated the very same proclamation that he received uh as he was recognized for uh being an African-Amean pioneer. Um this one uh I guess
guess you have a wall now, but I sincerely wish that Victor was here to look at that wall. >> Thank you. Thank you, gentlemen. Come on up. [applause] [applause]
>> You guys want to hold this? It's your little brother. >> Yes, please. I need to. It's because of me. I'm sorry, you guys. >> They're going to think this picture was when you were younger. [applause]
>> One more. Got it. [applause] >> Thank you, Victor. [snorts] Commissioners, that brings us to approval of minutes. We do not have any minutes to approve. Uh for our audience,
now is the opportunity uh to speak on anything uh any information that you may have that does not require board action. Actually, that's next. Excuse me. the in your agenda on 7A, you'll see the
Florida Public Service Commission. Uh that is uh an annual thing that we review. As you know, 7B has been removed uh until February 24th. Uh on the event calendar, uh friends and fellow
commissioners, 7C, a lot of exciting things that are happening there as we approach the spring season. Please take a time and and look at that. On 7D, as we know, the Oslo corridor study update has been moved to 13I. That
brings us to public comment on any agenda related matter except for public hearings. You'll have an opportunity to do that in just a few moments. And you'll also have an opportunity to speak at the end of the meeting if you have any other uh comments on things that aren't on the
agenda. Members, that brings us to the consent agenda. What's your pleasure? >> Move approval. >> Second. >> I have a motion by Commissioner Flesher and a second by Commissioner Adams. Any further discussion on the consent agenda? Hearing none. All in favor? I
measures. That brings us next to our public hearing uh for an ordinance amending code Indian River County Chapter 103. I believe that will be
presented by general counsel. >> Yes, commissioners. This is a pretty uh simple straightforward ordinance. Um, and what it does is it amends chapter 103 in our code to remove the administrative responsibility for uh,
Indian River County boards and committees from from commissioner assistance and assigns it to the county administrator to um, have internal staff uh, work work on those boards and committees. In addition, the ordinance
clarifies that advisory committees and boards may be created by resolution, but it's not mandatory. The language in our code makes it mandatory, but I know that sometimes we do those by ordinance. So, um, are there any questions about this
code ordinance? >> Any questions? Commissioner, >> this is legislative in nature and does require a public comment section if anyone would like to comment on this legislative matter
um modifying our code. Public comment is concluded. Commissioners, what's your pleasure? >> Move approval. >> Second. A >> motion to approve by Commissioner Flesher and a second by Commissioner Irvin. Any further discussion? Hearing
none. All in favor? I >> I. >> Commissioners, that brings us next to uh item 11 A2, consideration of staff initiated land development regulations, amendments to create a reasonable accommodation ordinance, including
certified recovery residents. Uh commissioners, this was [snorts] passed down from the state of Florida for us to discuss and or adopt. I see assistant director Ryan Sweeney present.
Good morning, Mr. Sweeney. >> Thank you, Mr. Chair. For the record, Ryan Sweeney, assistant playing development services director. This is the land development regulation amendments to create a reasonable accommodation ordinance including certified recovery residences.
The LDR amendment process is legislative in nature. It requires a public hearing by the planning and zoning commission with a recommendation to the board of county commissioners. And then today is the final public hearing by the board of county commissioners. I do want to point out in our our process there's really
only two ways to change the LDRs. One is staff initiated typically through direction by the board or in this case the state and the other option is a applicant driven process. So even though this is labeled as staff initiated, this is really a a mandate by the state.
So, a quick background analysis. The county currently does not have a reasonable accommodation procedures established within the LDRs. Um, the proposed LDR amendments will create the reasonable accommodation procedures. And then the proposed LDR amendments will also confirm that certified recovery
residences are eligible to request reasonable accommodation via the newly created procedures as directed by Senate Bill 954 in 2025. It's now section 9 397.48715 48715 Florida statutes. I'll run through these fairly quickly.
This just is a quick summary of each each section of the ordinance. Section one establishes consistency with the Federal Fair Housing Amendments Act or FHAA and title two of the Americans with Disabilities Act or ADA. Section two, requests for reasonable
accommodation shall be submitted to the Planning and Development Services Department and identifies time frames for review of the requests. Section three discusses medical information and that the county should make efforts to treat said medical information as confidential as opposed
to public record. Section four establishes that the PDS director shall have the authority to consider and act on requests for reasonable accommodation and outlines the process for approval, partial approval or denial of each request. Section five, the applicant must
demonstrate a handicap or disability as defined in FHAA or ADA. Section six outlines the appeal process if the request is denied and identifies the county administrator shall hear the appeal. Section seven confirms that there shall
be no fee imposed by the county in connection with a request for reasonable accommodation. Section 8 confirms that any property purchase, building, construction, or other work associated with establishing a project or resident housing individuals covered by the FHAA and or
ADA while an application or appeal for reasonable accommodation is pending is considered to be at risk. Section 9 outlines uh general provisions for the ordinance or for the process and section 10 identifies the information that is required to be included in a
reasonable accommodation request form. The proposed LDR amendments have been reviewed by the county attorney's office and are consistent with the section 397.4877 sub15 for the statutes. The planning and zoning commission at
their regular January 22nd, 2026 meeting uh recommended that the BCC adopt the proposed ordinance by a vote of 7 to zero and staff's recommendation is that the BCC adopt the proposed LDR amendments to create the reasonable accommodation proc ordinance including certified recovery residences. Thank
you. [clears throat] Commissioners, any questions for Mr. Tweeny? >> Mr. Chairman, I do. >> Yes, sir. >> For years, I know there we've allowed throughout the county,
like residents that are mentally handicapped or disabled to live in kind of a communal setting. Not that the house was, you know, 20 people in one, 1200 foot house. that was accommodated by the
number of rooms and stuff like that. I know we've always had those, but it seems like now we're getting, let's call them halfway houses uh in in private neighborhoods and stuff like that.
I had a call last week about one uh down in the south part of the county area. How does that how do those type of things fit in? And I I guess because this is very hard to understand for for people and we need to explain it and we
try to need to explain it to him. Y'all do we do can the two of y'all like kind of fill me in on what what this really means on especially in in regards to something like that? >> You want me to go first? >> Yeah, I I can take a crack at it.
>> Okay. [laughter] Um so so basically the uh Fair Housing Act and the Americans with Disability Act make it unlawful to discriminate against um people or organizations based
on protected status including disability addiction to alcohol and drugs is considered a disability or can be considered a disability under these um different laws. Um, and there's also a federal regulation on point that makes
it unlawful for a public entity to to determine sight or location of a facility in a manner that has the purpose or effect of excluding individuals with disabilities or denying them the benefit of public services or otherwise subjecting them to discrimination. There's various Florida
statutes on point uh that have to do with residential location of sort of sober homes in because they are residential in nature. You can't discriminate that against them for them being allowed to be in a residential neighborhood. Uh there's
case law on point. So, there's a lot of laws that when I came to my conclusion that I gave you recently that said generally we can't discriminate against these types of uh housing in residential neighborhoods. That's that was the basis for my conclusion. I don't know Ryan if
you want to add to that. >> Yeah, thank you uh Mr. Chair, Commissioner Man. Um these are two sort of separate things though. The the exemption so to speak. Those those apply to a number of different individuals. One is for, you know, mentally disabled.
Another is for elderly. U there's also one for daycarees. And it's usually what we call the five or fewer or the six or fewer. Each agency, each regulatory agency um allows five residents or six residents depending on to be considered just a single family home. The other
thing I want to clarify on is this is post treatment. This is not a detox center, which we, you know, we reviewed and approved a detox center earlier last year. Um, this is merely the process and this is the process to request an
reasonable accommodation including basically the ADA and the FHA already said that individuals can request reasonable accommodation based on their status. This only changed that certified recovery residences are also afforded
the same opportunity. It's not a it's not an obligation that we must approve the request. Uh it's a process if that makes sense. But it's two it's two separate items if you will. >> So if I have a house and I want to make it a sober home or whatever to you know
for people to have a place to stay is there do I have to turn in paperwork? >> Yeah. There's a state state licensing process. >> It's a state license and come through us. >> Right. And and so just for that part if you meet the exemption criteria local
government has no say. We say that's a single family home. It operates. there's there's numbers so there's compliance um but this is an additional step if in addition to say you want to establish let's get away from well recovery residence so say you want to establish that but in addition to that you also
need a we use the example at the P&Z uh you need to have a an accessible handicap ramp and that ramp normally would have a 5-ft setback but the way the house is already designed you want to go down to three feet that's probably reasonable um if you want to go down to
zero we would say Sorry, wrong. You know that's not reasonable. So that that's this is a separate item for an accommodation. >> Are these inspected by DPR or Department of Health or any >> it dep has their own so elderly affairs uh what we used to call DCA each each one has
its own regulatory agency through the state. >> There's not much we this we don't have a lot of say in this. >> That's correct. And and again this this is separate from that. This is merely creating the procedure. >> Okay. Yes, ma'am.
>> I was just going to add that in this Florida statute 397.487, this is where the state certifies recovery residences. There are a lot of requirements to get certified. So, um I can give you a copy of this or go over
them with you, but they are subject to being inspected. They have to have policies and procedure manuals. They have to have drug testing procedures and requirements. Uh, and there's to be an administrator in one of these uh,
certified recovery residences. There there are certain requirements people have to pass background checks. I mean, there it's voluminous the type of um, standards that are put in place. >> Mr. Chair, the last thing I'll add is, you know, to date we we've not ever
received a request for reasonable accommodation. So even though it's kind of been in the federal and state law for quite a while, we we've never received a request. >> Thank you very much. Any further questions, commissioners? Hearing none. [clears throat] This is
legislative matter. So we will open this for public comment. Anyone from the public have a comment on this particular item? Given ample time hearing none, seeing none, the public comment is closed.
Commissioners, what's your pleasure? >> We realize this is pushed down from the state. There's not a whole lot we can do about it. >> Move approval. >> Have a motion by Commissioner Adams. I'll second that motion. Any further discussions? Hearing none. All in favor? I. And the
motion passes unanimously. Commissioners, next up is 11 A3. Uh this is an annual exercise, so to speak. County initiated a request to amend the five-year capital improvement program and the capital improvement element otherwise known as
the CIE for the period fiscal year 2526 through 2930. I see Patrick Murphy is with us today. Welcome Mr. Murphy. Good morning commissioners. For the record, Patrick Murphy, chief of
longrange planning. I am here to present uh the county initiated request to amend our capital improvements element of the comprehensive plan. For a little background, Indian River County adopted its comprehensive plan on February 13th, 1990. This plan included a capital improvements element which
must be updated annually. State law does allow for us to amend this capital improvement plan through a simplified ordinance process. It would not require an actual text legislation change. This update ensures compliance with all state regulations.
Uh it's much different than standard plan amendments which sometimes requires a map or text change. This is just to adopt the schedule. It requires only one public hearing. There is no review required by the planning and zoning commission or state agency review. Only our uh adopted officials. The board of
county commissioners would required to approve this. some highlighted changes uh in your schedule and in the uh supplemental uh documents that you have is existing revenue information and updated revenue projections. The updated appendix A,
which is the Indian River County 5-year schedule of capital improvements, is also included. Looking a little further at appendix A, this 5-year CIP for fiscal year 2526 to fiscal year 2930. So every year we do this, we have a five-year plan. So each
year, the last year will drop off and then an additional year is added. The total 5-year CIP, the expenditures have increased by 27% from $514,647,844 to 656,39,72. That's our new proposed 5-year CIP schedule. The projected expenditures in
that schedule does match the projected revenues. the schedule. The purpose of this is so that we can maintain our level of service standards that are adopted in the comprehensive plan. And this year, supplanting transportation is actually sanitary sewer and potable water has become the largest category of total
expenditures in this 5-year cycle. Here you have appendix A, a little closer of a look. Uh the schedule you have in front of you, all of the categories are listed on the far left. The next column over was last year's five-year schedule. The middle column is the current schedule we're looking at. Then you have a percent difference at
the end and the dollar amount is the second from the right. I'll let that hang for a moment. So taking a look at some of the major projects and budgets. Coastal engineering budgeted at 6.8 million will include beach reourishment and reef installations. Conservation and aquifer
recharge at 15.8 million will include habitat restoration and public access. Emergency services budgeted at 75 million will include new fire stations and vehicle fleet upgrades, building and facility services, 27.9 million for
library renovations, EOCC expansion, office upgrades, North County Library roof, and some fiber optic interconnectivity. The lagoon is actually a new category. It's been budgeted for $200,000 and this is for the evaluation of impounded wetlands, law enforcement and
corrections. 26.3 million will cover facility expansions and security upgrades. Recreation open spaces 54 million for park improvements, baseball fields, lighting enhancements, improvements to the aquatic center and the Sanri golf course. Sanitary sewer
and potable water, $233 million for water man and sewer upgrades. Continuing on, solid waste, 34.5 million for landfill expansion and cell closures. Storm water at 33.8 8 million to include the Indian River Drive storm water
treatment and storage project, the Felsmeare storm water treatment area, floating aquatic mats, and various water quality improvements throughout the county. And last but not least, transportation at 148.9 million. That's going to go towards road widening projects, sidewalks, bike lanes,
intersection realignments, pedestrian bridges, and culvert replacements. In summary, the CIP that you have before you includes increased revenue forecasted. It will maintain the level of service standards in the comprehensive plan. It is consistent
with all elements of the plan. The amendment aligns with all the policies in the capital improvements element itself and ensures all projects over $100,000 are included as per policy 1.9. That concludes my presentation. Oh, I'm
sorry. recommendation. Um staff recommends that the board of county commissioners update or approve the update to the plan and all of its supporting information. That concludes my presentation. I'm happy to answer any questions you may have. We also have various staff here in case you have any project related questions that you have
as well as county administrator and staff from Office of Management Budget. Thank you. >> Thank you, Mr. Murphy. Any questions from fellow commissioners? I'll I'll add that uh I spent extensive time with the county administrator
yesterday uh and before discussing uh these priorities and um although we see a lot of numbers uh the truth is uh Mr. Administrator that very flexible depending on the um dollar
amount uh this is all directly related to our budget process. So, please keep that in mind when you see kind of a wish list, if you will. You have any comments? >> Yeah. To to your point that you uh the question yesterday, you're really
adopting the first year and then the four years after for planning purposes and should revenues, you know, and the the funds anticipated not uh materialize or acrew, you have the ability to adjust
it. I do want to take one moment because I know I did if you looked at that there was a reduction in public safety and uh one of the things and I had a breakfast with the the sheriff uh and we have discussed because there was a pretty big ask in there regarding a public safety
training complex and my recommendation and it is in the facilities management is that we do a more broadscale public safety master plan in the interest of the public that would look at law enforcement corrections fire rescue, emergency management and
animal services. So because that's that's one of our you strategic planning goals and we just want to do it in a more deliberate and appropriate fashion so we can look at it holistically and uh [snorts] so there we didn't remove the project from the the entirety of the the
CIE. we just pushed out to the fifth year and once we have that completed of course we'll imp every one of these lo uh divisions or departments agencies we will invite them to that process it will not be done in a vacuum and then we would make the appropriate adjustments
in subsequent years >> I appreciate that and many of us that that have been here for a while know that this document looks completely different than it did in ' 08 9 10 11 12 particularly
the captain and commissioner Leer. Any further comments, questions, concerns? >> This is the part where someone can make a motion. >> Thought you had to open the public hearing. >> No, >> we have to have a public hearing.
>> I was waiting for >> Didn't have it on my notes. >> Public hearing is now open. If anyone would like to talk about the uh Michael, >> there is ample time given hearing and seeing none. Commissioners, what's your pleasure?
>> Mr. Chair, thank you for that. Now, I'm fully prepared to make a motion for approval. >> My notes will reflect that. >> Second. [laughter] >> We have a motion. We have a second. Commission, Mr. Administrator, I see you. >> I Yeah, I just want to take a moment to thank all the department heads and the
division managers. I want to thank the planning staff uh from Patrick and all the support staff that assisted him and John Stole and then also OM who really kind of helps put together the numbers and make sure this balances. Uh it's not
just an exercise. It's it's a thoughtful deliberative process that enables us to you know uh everybody says well you're not planning for the future of growth but this actually this document is what really kind of where the rubber meets the road in terms of trying to make sure that our level of service standards are
being met for the future and that we're planning in accordance with the with our within our means so as projected based on the revenue that we believe. So um and then and then the needs. So, I do want to thank Patrick's especially as well.
>> Appreciate that. And Patrick as well as OM. Uh, I see Miss Daniels here did a fantastic job. Some would argue that they did most of the work, Patrick. But [clears throat and cough] we have a motion. We have a second. Any further considerations?
Hearing none. All in favor? I. And the motion carries unanimously. Commissioners, that brings us next to the relocation of 7D down to 13 IA.
Uh, which of course is an overview of the Oslo corridor study update. Um, commissioners, this is the first review of what we will be experiencing in the next uh 10 days of six public meetings,
some in the north, some in the middle, and some in the south uh to discuss uh the Oslo corridor. See Mr. Stole and Mr. Woody. Good morning. >> Morning. >> Welcome. >> Thank you.
>> Good morning. My name is Logan Woody and I work as a special projects planner for the planning and development services department and I'm joined with uh John Stole who is the planning director and we're here to present to the board an
update about the Oslo corridor. So um we'll start with a brief introduction uh followed by our phasing plan then provide information on available planning tools that we have and we'll talk about next steps and then we'll finish off with the final adoption
process. So, a little bit of background to the Oslo corridor project is that following the urban service boundary study in 2024, the Oslo interchange was identified as an area by the USB study that may warrant further analysis. The
board of county commissioners directed the planning and development services department to conduct the Oslo corridor study. On May 20th, 2025, staff's recommendation report was presented to the BCC. The following three recommendations were supported. Urban
service connection which would extend the urban service boundary from 58th Avenue Southwest to 98th Avenue Southwest between Fifth Street Southwest and 13th Street Southwest. The next was a temporary moratorum. This was a
one-year moratorum on all reszonings to allow time for planning of land use, design, and development standards. And then the final one was the overlay district. And so this was to create a corridor specific uh regulations for site and
building design, landscaping allowable or permitted uses. And this would allow for consistency and quality throughout the Oslo corridor. Additionally, on January 27th, 2026, the board of county commissioners voted in
support of the economic development strategic action plan, which identifies the Oslo interchange as an economic catalyst project for the county. So, a brief overview of our phasing
plan. So, this project was split into uh two phases. Phase one consisted of internal meetings with county departments to discuss urban uh the urban service boundary expansion feasibility. The next process was to conduct public
workshop presentations. then was to create an Oslo recommendation report that was presented to the board and then it was the start of the one-year temporary moratorum on all resonings within the corridor study area and that began that began on June
17th, 2025. We now move into phase two of the project and this involves engaging property owners and business owners. uh additional workshop presentations focusing on draft design overlay development and architectural standards and future land use
designations. Following this, we will deliver the final Oslo overlay district regulations and amendments to uh the Indian River County's comprehensive plan which we would need to formally adopt. And then
we would also be presenting um adoptions for an economic development incentive for the Oslo corridor area. And this slide provides a a timeline of the entire Oslo corridor project. And it
began back in 2000 when the interchange was first identified. and there was an expressed interest on creating a new I95 interchange at Oslo Road. From there, we fast forward to 2010 where Indian River
County adopts the 2030 comprehensive plan. And within the 2030 comprehensive plan, it notes that the interchange construction will drive the need for commercial node expansion and further economic growth. Next, we move to 2023 where FDOT begins
their construction. This is nearly 25 years later and it been long anticipated for the county. Following the FDOT construction, we move into February of 2024 where the in uh Inspire USB study was
conducted. And for the USB study, Indian River County engaged Inspire Placemaking Collective to conduct an urban service boundary study. The area surrounding the new Oslo Road I95 interchange was the only location identified for potential
expansion. The USB presentation to the board of county commissioners in October of 2024 is what eventually led to staff conducting the Oslo corridor
study. This initiated in November of 2024 and the planning and development services department begins the first phase of the Oslo corridor study and this is what consisted of the expansion feasibility public workshops and
drafting the recommendation report. In 2025, the Oslo quarter recommendation report was presented and supported. And this now brings us to where we are now in February of 2026, updating the
board of county commissioners on where where we are currently at, where we and where we are looking to go. And so throughout this month, we will be doing some public engagement and staff will be hosting some public workshops across the
county, meeting with property owners and gathering feedback on the Oslo corridor. And then this year as well, we will be uh uh planning on presenting to the board our final adoption, which will
consist of uh amendments to the Indian River County comprehensive plan and land development regulations. >> Thank you, Logan. Um so, good morning. My name is John Stole. I'm the planning and development services director for Indian River County. Um I want to go over what our approach to this project is going to be. You heard a little bit
of this, but um I'm going to break it down in detail. So, we're going to evaluate and make recommendations for changes to the future land use map. The future land use map is a policy guide that identifies the preferred locations of land uses like residential, commercial, industrial, etc. This step will not modify zoning, and we have no
intention of modifying zoning. Zoning will remain the regulatory tool that determines what can actually be built or how a property can be used. Future zoning changes in the corridor will take place on a case- by case basis at the request of the property owners through the normal public hearing process. So I'm going to go over the design
overlay. You've heard a little bit about that at this point. A corridor like Oslo is not built all at once. It develops piece by piece over time. Without a coordinated design approach, each site can function on its own, but collectively will create congestion, safety issues, and possible visual clutter.
The design overlay allows the county to plan the corridor as a complete environment rather than reacting to each application individually. The overlay can guide how commercial uses are arranged throughout the corridor and that may include spacing higher intensity uses such as gas stations so we don't end up with multiple driveways and turning conflicts concentrated in
one location. It also addresses building placement and appearance. placing buildings closer to the street, parking to the side or rear when feasible, and requiring landscaping and pedestrian connections so that the corridor feels intentional rather than like strip development. The goal isn't to limit property rights.
It's to make sure each project adds to a functional and attractive corridor and protects adjacent neighborhoods, preserves the long-term identity of the Oslo corridor. Now, this is a I really love this slide. Um, it's kind of an interaction slide that shows um how all these land use
regulations interact with each other. So the graphic shows how the countyy's land development system works as a series of layers rather than a single decision. The bottom layer depicts the land and individ individual properties as they exist today. Planning doesn't replace this layer. It works on top of it. This is the reality on the ground and the
next layer shows how we manage change over time. Next layer is the future land use. As we just previously discussed, this is the longrange policy layer. It answers the question, what general type of place should the area become over time? The third layer is zoning. Zoning is a regulatory layer and determines what a property owner is allowed to
build today. Zoning only changes through a public hearing when the property owner requests it. And the fourth layer is our overlay district. The overlay does not change the land use or zoning category. Instead, it coordinates how development fits together along the corridor. Things like access, separation, building form, site layout. So, these individual
projects build out as a complete corridor with a unique identity over time. Okay. So, as Logan mentioned, our next steps, we'll be having some workshops, uh, including one starting tomorrow, um, February 11th at the North Indian River County Library, 11 to 12 in the morning
or 12:30 and 6:00 to 7:30 at night. Um, our next one will be on President's Day here in the Indian River County Commissioner Chambers. Again, same times, 11 to 12:30 and 6 to 7:30. And then our final one will be Wednesday, February 18th at the Inter Intergenerational Recreation Center. Um,
same times as before. Um, as Logan mentioned, your final adoption process would look like this. You'll have to adopt provisions to the county's comprehensive plan, and that includes the new service urban service boundary connection. You'll also have to change the future land use designations as you move forward, and adopt provisions to the county's land development
regulations. That will be where the overlay district gets adopted with the specific use criteria and development standards that'll support that development. I want to thank you all for your time, and I am available for any questions. >> Thank you, Mr. Stole. Thank you, Mr.
Woody. Uh, any questions, concerns? Commissioner Moss. >> Thank you, Mr. Chair. Um, it was interesting to me that it I mean, it was a coincidence to have Waterway Village and have this on the same agenda, but I'm going to take a minute to connect
the dots. Um, and for the community, if you didn't follow the agenda, Waterway Village, um, it was going to be a discussion of 18 acres of what is now open space. uh near Waterway Village. And the thought was this will be
returned to the county from the school district and it could be open space. It could be other things perhaps. But there was an outcry uh from the community that it remain uh if it went if and when it's returned to the county, presumably it
will be it remain open space. We heard from dozens of people. I heard uh and all of us did. you could see that we were all included on the emails. Um, so that reinforces uh what we've I think already learned
from the workshops that the overarching uh theme expressed by the community to us is a concern for open space and preserving agricultural land. I mean that was 18 acres in Waterway Village
and we heard from dozens of people. What we're talking about here are the existing land use patterns for this Oslo corridor. It's 83.8% vacant and that's you know your term but
it's another word for open space or 2415 acres. So if we have the same ratio if you have three times as many uh people as acres that's what happened with waterway village. It was 18 acres and we heard
from dozens of people. I mean we we you know which we really should hear like from thousands of people on this or I would hope and I'm sure we won't but I encourage everyone to attend these workshop. It's workshops. It's it's so important uh going forward. Um I was
thinking too you know I looked at this I read it. I think, you know, great job. You know, it it lays it out going forward. But I was thinking to myself, I did a lot of tossing and turning last night with the, you know, Waterway Village, thinking about that and thinking about this and how they mesh. I
mean, because they really do. We're talking about the same thing, open space, and I know what's here. I'm wondering what could be here in terms of information. uh for example when we get to environmental constraints it talks
about well we won't know certain things having to do with wetlands and that kind of environmental concerns until the development review process so I'm wondering to myself the uh we now have a new department uh natural resources and they have all
kinds of maps that's what I've been told so is there a way that we can use that information use these maps apps to know in advance things like wetlands and and flood zones and that sort of thing. And we also have an elected body that's the
Indian River Soil and Water Conservation District and they are experts obviously it's in their name soil and water conservation. So I would like to see or I would hope that they would be part of the discussion at at some point and then
with there's um an agriculture advisory committee and it seems like you know they should be involved since the majority just for the community the majority of this right now is zoned agricultural it's a one and two and that's the vast majority was like 80 or 90%
uh right now. So I would hope that um in addition to the community that we can bring to bear this expertise that might be available to us u from other sources and that could um impact decisions that
are made that we that we have more information. So I would hope that that could be incorporated at some point because I was thinking well what's what's here is great but like what's not here and those were the things and you might think of other things you know what else what other sources of
expertise what other sources of information then I had some uh specific questions on what is here um are there going to be since we're talking about agriculture and I understand you've stated there will be economic development incentives will there be will that include
agricultural incentives. Any thoughts on that, >> Commissioner? >> So, that's going to be part that's part of the economic development plan that's that we talked about at the last meeting. Those incentives and any
incentives moving forward would go through um EDC. We do have an agricultural representative that sits on EDC. um and agriculture has been a discussion point and it would be treated like any other business and incentives
would be available to them as such. >> Yeah, I was just thinking this is a unique situation where it is the vast majority of the land is currently agricultural. Um so when we talk about economic development it's um I mean I
think we have a great panel but it's you know mainly business people talking about how to conduct business um and considering what this land currently is and what the community has already expressed to us. You know I would hope that we'll incorporate um other [clears throat] opinions or other
expertise on that additional expertise. Um, I'll say the other thing is I'm thinking that we look at it like it's, you know, our version of Montana or or Wyoming, you know, because really it's vacant. >> Well, because they've identified it as
vacant, largely vacant. Um, and that's that's their term, not mine. So, how many people live around >> to the landfill? >> How many people how many people live around the perimeter? If if you know, and if you know, can we discuss it in the future? You don't have to tell me this minute, but like how many
subdivisions and how many people are in each subdivision around the perimeter? You know, I mean that that area is not residential right now. It's it's agricultural. That's that's what I mean by it that there it's um part of the study. >> Yeah. It's not find all that out.
>> Yeah. There's there's not a large population, but the surrounding area, >> you know, how many subdivisions and how many people Well, I there >> make a note of that, Logan. Logan, this is in the urban service boundary. >> Oh, which part is within the urban
service boundary? What was the question? >> I'm sorry. The Oslo corridor is within the urban service boundary. >> Part of it is. So, uh, >> okay. What this update is about is the portion that exists within the urban service boundary and then that portion that was voted on during the
recommendation report for us to to continue under the assumption that it will be within the urban service boundary once the updated comprehensive plan is adopted. >> Right. Well, it was identified as vacant
and supposedly, if I read it correctly, it said that um moniker was applied because an aerial photograph was taken and that's in here in the in the draft report and so that's why it was identified as vacant. There's just not
that much there right now. So, I'm wondering what is around it. That's all in terms of subdivisions and you know what what are the numbers? What are the numbers? >> Do you have a minute? Well, after completion >> right now, right now it's open space. It's >> go ahead, Mr. Administrator. This is all encompassing the study that we're going
to do in the next uh few weeks and few months. Mr. Administrator, >> so one of the things is one, yes, we did the urban service boundary expansion and talked about and the board approved the report with the strategic expansion. I
think Oslo corridor that portion west of 95 was one that was identified. And then the board directed us to come back and focus on the Oslar corridor and that's what we did and we presented back in May of 2025
and now we're going move and that's June was the moratorum to allow to ensure that nothing went crazy while we opened up that that can if we opened up that can if you will. And this is the actually putting
in the overlay study with all the zoning district regulation requirements, the standards, the uses. But the a couple things I would do want to mention is uh in the economic development strategic action plan is that all of our targeted industries would be eligible for the
incentives. And we narrow down that list from the the very vast list that we had previously from any qualified targeted industry in the state of Florida to those specific to um Indian River County of which agriculture, a tourism, you know,
research and and stuff like that was one of them. And then I I think the other thing that I would just add is and we we'll make sure uh that the Indian River Soil Conservation Water District board members as well as the A advisory
committee members are invited to these workshops. Uh these are workshops in addition to the ones held on the USB that discuss this as well as the ones more specific to the Oslo corridor workshops previously held. So this would
be almost I we did six workshops last time and this would be another round of six and if the USB we did I think it was three. >> Yeah at least and keep in mind that
under the moratorum there'll be no land use zone changes >> correct going to happen. This is to put the framework in to make sure that we don't see the o because I think one of the overriding concerns that was mentioned is we don't want Oslo corridor
by virtue of the interchange coming in turning into the next state road 60 corridor because people say that's just a a nightmare. So that's why we put the moratorum in to be more judicious and deliberate to come back with a plan to
ensure that it's planned appropriately and we're not like caught off guard where this gas station's popping up, this store is popping up and this store and you're seeing leaprog development, you know, from 60 and interchange 95 all the way into 66 and further. So that's
the intent here is to try to manage the growth responsibly and make sure that the growth complements the uh what uh the community has expressed. >> That that is correct. And by the way, [clears throat] these six meetings that
we're having uh we've learned from the the prior meetings uh with the USB and I can assure you that uh attention will be focused on this. And by the way, we do not have to do this. Uh this is something that we're doing to benefit uh
the overall greater good of the community and the county. >> No, I think I I think it's a great idea. And just to to bring it full circle, >> um there's one uh sentence in the draft report. It's from page uh 173. It was especially meaningful to me because it
it comes from uh what I would classify as open comment. These are people just offering their comments. Otherwise, it's a matter of choices. It's like a multiplechoice question. And there there's no, you know, there's no blank. This is the blank space where you can say whatever you want to say. So, just
as one sentence to keep in mind. Um, and I'm quoting it within the written response portion. The concerns about future growth generally stem from an aversion to growth, environmental and rural impact, traffic congestion, and
not wanting to be similar to an overpop populated South Florida. We just need always to keep that in mind. Uh to me, that's it's well stated and it sums it all up. So, thank you. Those are my comments. Thank you. >> Thank you very much, Commissioner Moss,
and thank you uh Mr. Woody and Mr. Stole. Commissioners, this item does not require a vote. It'sformational items. It was designed to give all of us as well as staff and the public an idea of what to expect in the next uh two weeks
with our our public meetings. Any further questions or comments? >> With that, commissioners, we will take a fivem minute recess and we will return at 10:15. rejoin our meeting. Commissioner
Flesher, welcome back. >> Uh commissioners, next up is one of the items that were added today, which would be 14A uh under county attorney matters. Uh I see Mr. Chris Hicks is with us. Good morning, Mr. Hicks. >> Good morning, chairman. Good morning,
commissioners. We're here for an update and some direction from the board as far as a couple ELAP purchases that are pending and we're actually our due diligence expires at the end of the week and an issue has come up with one of the title surveys. And so, if you could bring the map up, we can show it.
There's two properties. One is the known as the Hail property, the other is the Durant property. They're located on US1 um and near the Indian River. And you can see on the highlighted portion on the map, there is a cloud of ownership on that. It technically lies in the
Durant parcel. And the cloud is that going back almost 100 years, a little over 100 years, they can't determine with 100% accuracy who owns that 18 foot section that's highlight. Based upon that, they we can't get title insurance on the entirety of the property. They did write a title
insurance policy that exempts that portion, but that would be what we would be taking. You know, there are ways in the future to try to clear that up there. It would take a number of years and and some money, not nearly as much as what we're paying for the properties if we purchase them, but it would take some time and some money up to possibly up to
a decade to clear it completely. But it is there is a possibility. Nobody believes that there is a owner sitting back there with a deed somewhere, but since they can't guarantee it, they the title insurance company will not cover it. There is, again, it's 18 feet wide by think 800 feet long. And as you see
the two properties, they can still access each other, just not through the middle through the most important part. And these are two separate parcels that were approved by ELAP and by this board for separate purchase. They were not contingent upon each other. However, the idea was hopefully to be able to get
them together because it's even better if you can have a larger parcel that you can use for more activities. This would obviously limit some of that in the near future. Um, however, based upon these things, we wanted to bring it to the board and let the board know there's multiple options. We can purchase both properties. We can go forward and just
purchase the property that doesn't have any more clouds on it. We can walk away from both of them. It's up to the board. They were both ranked in the tier one list. They were some of the top properties that everybody was looking to get and and there's some historical value to them. And we also have Wendy
and Beth here. If the board has any more questions about that, they know that way better than I do. and the environmental impact of it. Both of them have value on their own and because of the nature of the sliver, it doesn't bring the value down enough to renegotiate that. And we do believe in the future we could
probably be able to get it through multiple ways, but it would just take time. So based upon that, we're asking the board to consider that. We'll answer any questions you have and then give direction to staff whether to, you know, walk away completely, which isn't our recommendation, but ultimately that's, you know, we follow direction. by both,
by one, however the board wishes to proceed. >> Thank you, Mr. Hicks. Uh, commissioners, be mindful that [clears throat] November of 2022, our residents overwhelmingly approved the ELAP uh funding. I believe it was over 70%. Uh, so it is sensitive.
Uh, these two particular properties obviously um were tiered and were agreed upon, in fact, voted upon by this body. uh very instrumental uh with the health of our lagoon. With that, any questions?
>> I don't have any questions, but I really don't have a problem with the um 18 feet. Is it 18 feet? >> 18 feet wide. And I It's 877 feet long if I'm not correct. Don't quote me on that part, but it's around 800 feet long. >> I'm going to take out my tape measure
and if you're not right, I will bring >> That's a big tape measure. Yeah. >> Um I really don't have a I don't think it diminishes the the purchase. Um and I would agree with the chair that this was ranked very highly by the ELAP committee. >> Very high.
>> Um so >> this was a this was a tier one property pretty much I think unanimously by the whole ELAP board. And you know, it's the old Hail Groves property where the fruit
stand used to be there on North US1. And it's got great potential uh for for development as to what we have. I'll say it's Wendy's vision and best vision as to what they want to see happen there. And we've toured the property. We took
the ELAP members out there. It's a great thing. So, we don't know who the 18 ft owns it. It's not the Hail family. It can't be provable. >> We believe it's probably a scrivener's error on a deed between two grown owner
Grove owners somewhere in the 20s or 30s, >> but it can't be proven. >> Okay, >> that that's why it can't be insurable because we can't with 100% clarity know who that is there. There's no way. >> It's like a legal thing. If you can't prove it with defininity, you're not going to get insurance on it. But, you
know, it historically it's part of that property. So I doubt there's really an issue with it. I mean and in the 20s they were you know writing deeds and on napkins and stuff. So >> it it stems back to the 20s
>> sometime in that time period sometime more than 70 years ago is where it they've started finding something about >> we have to look at the probability likelihood that someone's going to >> come forward and say hey I own that land. I've been keeping quiet. I've been
keeping this 18 by800 a secret since 1920 that I'm >> pro. Yeah, it was been under the mattress. >> Now I want to build my shotgun house. >> We can't prove it or disprove it. These these [snorts] properties did rank
extremely high. >> Uh and there is a vision and we've we've gone forward already. However, now we have to pause. If you think about again the likelihood probability that someone's going to be waving that piece
of paper in front of us up the road, it's 18 feet. Uh and >> but they can't access. >> What is the likelihood counselor that we'll be able to clear this up?
It's going to take some work. I believe we will be able to clear it up. It will just take up to 10 years to do it to complete all of that's necessary. If we do go through twi quiet title, it would be seven years before we can initiate that proceeding. We're looking at other options to do that
earlier, but it could be up to 10 years. That's just the caveat to that is I believe we will or we will be able to, but it it's not going to be a quick process. >> So then the conservation land intent for the property needs to be on pause. So,
I'd like to hear from if it does, I'd like to hear from um >> Does it need to be on Why would it need to be on pause? >> No. That's what I'm saying. >> So, I'd like to hear from them. >> Okay. >> That the intent will
continue on >> that there the 18 ft will not contaminate the process. And if that's the case, uh, we're meeting for continued approval.
>> Mr. Zto, good morning. >> Good morning, commissioners. Michael Zto, deputy county administrator. Uh, I'm apologize. We have not discussed this with the county attorney's office, but I think our um u departmental staff did discuss the concept of asking the
both uh as a condition of closing that these both owners quit claim whatever interest they have in this 18 ft. I mean, we don't know who owns it, but it's likely to be either one of them or their successors heirs in the signs. So, if they quit claim it, whatever interest they may or may not have would preclude
any future claim to this hiatus, as it's known in the law, and that would be my recommendation. Um, >> well, that's part of the contract we already had with both owners. That doesn't clear up the quiet title issue. >> Yeah. So, you don't have any title insurance on it, but
>> And who's going to lay claim to it would be the practical question. >> And and that's my point >> that that's part of the transaction. Yeah. and they they've already accepted that. However, that doesn't change what we have to do. We still have to wait the seven years because there might be, as you said, it's unlikely. There might be
somebody with a deed underneath a bed. [clears throat] It's more likely [laughter] that somebody's, you know, did a bad survey or you didn't write it down correctly, >> but until we we can't prove there isn't one. So, that's that's where we're at. >> So, just for clarity, you're just making sure that we are
aware of this. It's not necessarily going to um break the deal be a deal breaker but we will be acquiring property and 18 feet times 800 and some odd whatever will not
have title insurance on it. So it is hypothetically possible that somebody will have passed down some random deed generation from generation since 1920
and may pop up at the 17th hour and say no this is my property and you just want us to be aware of that going into this transaction. >> Correct. It's not a dealbreaker unless you feel it is and it still establishes the purpose of part of the elap purpose which was keeping land from being
developed when it's an environmentally sensitive area. >> I think that is a risk I am willing to take. >> And I think the attorney's office just wants us to say that we are okay with it. So they are being transparent.
>> So Beth, >> good morning commissioners. Beth Pal, parks, recreation conservation director. So, um, aside from the title issue and the ownership, so obviously we're, um, very supportive of the acquisition specifically to protect, uh, any of our
lagoon front properties that are in threat of development. There's no doubt about that. One thing I will point out is when the ELAP was considering the parcels, they were considered um, under uh, a a collective basically, which also include the parcel that was on the
lagoon that has a a current D violation. We did move forward with the dur the the Durant and the Hail properties uh collectively uh believing that we have enough river access to be able to make uh improvements uh for habitat uh water
quality and restoration. One thing to be mindful of is if the seven years um creates an issue uh for future improvements which I think it will between the two parcels. There were never a concept to do one parcel restoration and a second parcel restoration. I just want to bring to
your attention that uh the property ownership issue could delay uh future improvements, which in this case uh was public access improvements that might include trails and boardwalks, but also water quality improvements connecting this area to the lagoon, recreating or
reestablishing High Marsh, which would have naturally been found in that area, and uh doing some of that good work that we've been doing throughout the county to improve water quality. So, I I just want you to be aware of the fact that with the 18 feet that's straddling the
two properties, some of the plans that we would uh have originally discussed um in terms of water quality improvements would potentially be delayed or deferred until that hiatus is cleared up, unless we wanted to go with a separate restoration project, which would be uh
probably not in the best benefit. It was certainly not the intention when we were looking looking at the three parcels uh collectively together. So, I just want to bring that up. It's certainly something that we can work with the attorney's office on like what exactly can we do in that 18 ft. What can we not do? We would not be able to get permits.
We would not be able to do culverts. We would not be able to build any infrastructure including boardwalks. So, you would have uh with the exception of that one small piece that's up along uh the US1 parcel. It looks like that parcel is completely separated, I believe, all the way to the east. And
Chris can I couldn't quite see it from the from the aerial, but if there is a connection, then we could use what connections do exist and work around those. Uh, but I just want to let you know that if um if there were ideas that we were going to do a larger ecosystem enhancement project, that might be
somewhat stymied by the 18 ft and and we could delay that until the seven years are up or until we've been able to resolve the legal issues. we may not have the funding to do the whole project in any event. So >> there's it's not necessarily >> you know it's it's not dampening the
vision. It's just it's providing for other options >> but they are still uh very high ranking uh parcels. >> Yes sir. >> And uh greatly beneficial to the cause and to the greater good of the
community. So I I I don't have a challenge at all in going forward. >> Are you recommending item one? >> Yes. >> No, I'm I think we should still move ahead issues. I'm going to go back since my
family moved to Wabaso in 1923. I'm going to see if I can go through any old boxes. [laughter] >> Find your old filing cabinets. >> Anything I can find. might be some mining. Is >> that a motion? >> I think that is a motion.
>> We have a motion. Just move ahead. >> We have a second and that would be for suggestion number one uh for our general counsel and for Miss Pal. We have a motion and we have a second. Motion by Commissioner Flesher and initial by
Commissioner Adams. Any further discussion? Hearing none. Seeing none, all in favor? >> I >> I thank you for your time, Mr. Hicks. >> Thank you. >> Thank you. Motion carries. Commissioners, this brings us uh to the conclusion of the meeting for public
comment for any non-aggenda related matters. We know that uh Mr. Larry Forino has asked to speak with us. Uh I'm told that he is a retired state
trooper from Maryland. So, uh we certainly have time to listen to Mr. 14. >> Good morning. Thank you so much for having me. I'm a uh transplant from from Maryland. I apologize for bringing the cold weather and uh you can blame that on me. So, I'm the government affairs um
manager for Ches Peak Utilities Corporation. We're the parent company for uh Florida City Gas and Florida Public Utilities. So, um, I'm just making my rounds and and just putting a face with a name and want you to understand that we want to be very transparent with the commission, with the community, and and you have a direct
contact with, uh, Chesapeake Utilities Corporation. So, if you ever need anything, let me be your first contact. I certainly don't have all the answers, but I can at least point you in the right direction. So, I love the the first responder uh people that I that I've met here. And my wife is a 30-year
ER nurse and I was a retired uh I'm a retired Maryland state trooper and I tried to retire a couple times and and got in the utility and uh grateful to be in Florida. The conversation here is much different than it is in Maryland. So, incredibly grateful to be here. And if you guys have any questions or
concerns, please feel free to reach out. I provided you with a a little bit of a one sheet about the company and moving forward projects happening in this county. I can be your direct contact. >> Thank you for your time and if you have the opportunity, our new public works director is uh creating a contact list
as we speak. So, uh we appreciate your time and thank you for being here. >> Thank you so much. Appreciate it. >> Good morning. >> Morning. William McCaslin representing Aleppo. Uh we yesterday, yeah, yesterday me and the president had to meet with one of
our constituents residents that on our rightways, we have people driving through their yards now >> because the rideways that were originally Jeep trails have got three to four foot holes in them. So now they're driving through people's yards. I was
wondering, do we have any movement on that yet? I think Commissioner Adams is um has spearheaded that initiative with our public works director. Commissioner Adams. >> Um yes, Mr. McCaslin, you're talking
about um the road bringing the roads up to standard that whole process. So, uh, the public works department is working on that and they are right now, um, if I remember correctly, they're
prioritizing which roads we might be able to bring up to certain standards and start taking over and maintaining in the VLE area. Um, there is quite a few of those as there are in South County. uh our new public works director just
officially started in his role on January 26th. So, we should be seeing an update um on that in the next little bit, but I know you guys Have you spoken to the new public works director yet?
No. Okay. Um but that process is in is working and is in place. So, and if people are driving onto other people's yards, I mean, then they can certainly put something up to prevent that or you're welcome to give me the name um or
the section of the road and we can have somebody go out and look at it and um if it's an emergency situation, we can take care of that. >> It is definitely an emergency situation. >> Well, just email me the the information and I'll have somebody look at it. >> Gotcha. >> Absolutely. Thank you. Second thing, uh,
we know our temporary fire station was condemned due to black mold. I don't think it would cost that much money to pull in another temporary trailer to house them rather than having them come out of Barber Street for VLE for the next couple years till we get our new
station built. And we know that's at least two years, maybe more, out right now. Correct. that we just approved the CIE and in the CIE was funding for fiscal year 2526 for fire station 15 >> which is our correct fire station
>> but it's going to still take a couple years to get that built correct >> shouldn't take that long >> no we just >> I don't think it's going to take a couple years I mean we are looking at options uh the the modular that was there before it's my understanding the
cost of that what was previously paid for is exponentially higher now. So that's why we are currently looking at options and uh but yes no they've been doing site planning already on that property. So we in permitting if I
believe correctly to try to get it underway. >> As Sue knows and you know we've got buu houses going up. Buu people moving in. They're they're building them as as fast as they're getting them built. People are moving in now. So they are moving and we're getting a higher
[clears throat] older crowd back in there, you know, in that area. So, you know, that's why we're after, you know, faster >> recovery times for seniors. >> All right. Um,
>> I have one more. >> Be mindful that we limit this to three minutes and be mindful that we do not have typically have interaction with the speakers. Yes, sir. through the chair to sue any movement on 104th paving.
>> So, >> as the chair said, we typically don't have a back and forth, but you're welcome to set up a meeting with me and I'm sure you guys are going to be at my office hours next Thursday, >> correct? >> And I'm pretty sure this is all stuff that we will be talking about at that point.
>> Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Have a great day. >> Yes, sir. Thank you for being present. Any further comments, questions, concerns? Yes, ma'am. [clears throat] Name and address for the record, please.
>> Lisa Welch, 4839 Wellington Way Southwest. >> How are you all? >> Good morning, Miss Welch. >> Good morning. So, uh, Commissioner Lure had a meeting in our district that, um, last week and I attended that and I wanted to come and
and also voice what I, um, voiced at that meeting to everyone on the commission. So, in reference to the um Oslo corridor corridor, I know that last year there was a meeting and Commissioner Lure stated, "We want it to
pop talking about the exit when you get off of I95 and Oslo Road stating that we want it to pop so you know that you've entered someplace special because you are." So, this statement raises an important question. Why can't all major roads and gateways into and around Vero
Beach reflect the same vision? For example, key routes such as 58th Avenue, Oslo Road from I95 to US1, I95 State Road 60 to 43rd should receive the same level of attention as successful projects along
66th Avenue, County Road 510 and the landscaping on 53rd Street. Currently, many mediums medians are unattractive and poorly maintained. When plants die, they are often not replaced. Palms and
oleanders disappear with no plan for renewal. In the median between 8th and Fourth Street on 58th last year, there was a irrigation leak and the leak was repaired, but instead of replanting, they converted it to grass.
Additionally, the pink moly grass that's provided only has a short period of interest in the fall and it looks unappealing the rest of the year. Our medians need planting that offer year-round visual interest. We value the unique characteristics of our community
and would like landscaping decisions that reflect who we are rather than marrying surrounding towns. Improving and maintaining our landscape is an opportunity to enhance our image, foster community pride, and show that we care about where we live. Thoughtful,
wellplanned improvements can strengthen our identity while keeping our community welcoming and distinctive. Our community entrances and main corridors should make a positive first impression, one that
reflects pride, care, and vibrance. Vero Beach should feel welcoming and special, not neglected or depressing. Thank you. >> Thank you, Mr. SW. [clears throat] Any further questions or comments for this body? Hearing none and seeing none, it is
10:39. This meeting is adjourned.