TO: Board of County Commissioners
THROUGH: John A. Titkanich, Jr., County Administrator
FROM: Addie Javed, Ph.D., P.E., Public Works Director
DATE: April 22, 2025
SUBJECT: Interlocal Agreement with the City of Vero Beach for Canal Clearing at the Jackie Robinson Training Complex (JRTC)
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BACKGROUND
The canal located at the Jackie Robinson Training Complex, situated within the City limits, has become significantly overgrown with vegetation. This condition has contributed to flooding issues and raised safety concerns for users of the facility. To address the immediate concerns, the County and City have mutually agreed to a one-time effort to clear and maintain the canal to mitigate the associated risks.
The County has received a vendor quote totaling $103,000 to perform canal clearing and grubbing services, which includes hauling off the removed debris. Under this proposed interlocal agreement, the County will proceed with hiring and paying the vendor, while the City agrees to reimburse the County for the full cost using its FY 2025-2026 stormwater utility funds.
ANALYSIS
This Interlocal Agreement formalizes the cooperative effort between the County and the City to address stormwater management and public safety issues through a one-time canal clearing project. This collaborative arrangement ensures timely remediation of the flooding issue without delay, while respecting each entity's fiscal planning and budget cycles. The agreement also clearly defines that the County’s role is limited to this one-time effort and does not create an ongoing maintenance responsibility. Original documents are available for viewing in the Board of County Commissioner’s office.
BUDGETARY IMPACT
The County will initially fund the $103,000 canal clearing project, with full reimbursement from the City no later than September 30, 2026, using the City's FY 25/26 stormwater utility funds. Funding is available in the Transportation Fund/Public Works/Other Contractual Services account, number 11124319-033490. There is no long-term financial obligation for the County beyond this one-time expense.
STRATEGIC PLAN ALIGNMENT
This project supports the County’s goals to enhance infrastructure resilience, promote intergovernmental collaboration, and improve public safety by addressing stormwater and flooding concerns at a key community facility.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Recommended Action
Staff recommends approval of the Interlocal Agreement with the City for canal clearing at the Jackie Robinson Training Complex. This cooperative effort provides a timely solution to flooding and safety concerns, aligns with strategic priorities, and ensures full cost recovery for the County.