Aerial Photo

Deputy County Attorney Susan Prado presented the proposed Developer's

Agreement for Lakeside West, a residential development planned to include 201

single-family lots divided into two phases. She added that this project was located

north of 25th Street SW, along 43rd Avenue SW, and noted the developer was

required to contribute towards the costs of County improvements. Ms. Prado

requested the Board take the following actions: review the proposed Developer's

Agreement, open the public hearing for comments, close the public hearing, and make

a motion to bring the Developer's Agreement back to the Board for the second public

hearing scheduled for March 25, 2025.

Commissioner Moss expressed concerns regarding reliance on a 2004 traffic study

that used outdated standards, especially given the significant traffic issues plaguing the

area. Planning and Development Services Director Chris Balter responded that

despite its age, the 2004 traffic study was still considered relevant and more thorough

than what current standards required. He explained the complexities of project

vesting, which could last five to seven years with the possibility of extensions.

Commissioner Adams sought clarification on how different projects utilized traffic

studies and the validity of older studies. Mr. Balter explained that traffic studies reflect

conditions at specific points in time, including the developments that were entitled

during that period. Although future projects, such as the anticipated 2027 Oslo

Interchange opening, were taken into account, they were not fully captured in older

studies. He mentioned that new developments had notably affected traffic patterns,

which caused many projects to be scaled back. According to Mr. Balter, traffic

studies followed established guidelines typically executed by independent traffic

consultants.

Commissioner Earman raised concerns about potential traffic problems stemming

from the new Emerson Oaks development near the intersection of Oslo Road and

43rd Street. He pointed out that the area already experienced heavy traffic and

expressed worries that 43rd Street might be nearing capacity. County Administrator

John Titkanich clarified that the Board was not approving a new development but

ratifying a revised agreement reducing the originally authorized units from 288 to 201,

alongside necessary infrastructure improvements.

Public Works Director Addie Javed noted that while many units had been built in

2004, the current proposal would result in a lower count. This suggested that the

existing infrastructure could accommodate the traffic from the new development.

Vice Chairman Loar addressed flooding concerns, explaining that current regulations

mandated effective stormwater management. He highlighted that traffic studies

conducted by recognized engineers helped ensure objectivity. He added that peak

traffic on 43rd Avenue was primarily directed toward Indrio Road and expressed

hope that the Oslo Interchange could help alleviate some congestion.

Chairman Flescher emphasized the importance of understanding the traffic study's

complexity and commended the efforts of the trained professionals who ensured its

accuracy.

The Chairman opened the public hearing.

Commissioner Earman again expressed concern about the proposed development

near Emerson Oaks, specifically regarding traffic on Oslo Road and 43rd Avenue.

Administrator Titkanich reiterated that the project, initially approved in 2007 for 288

units, had been scaled down to 201, with mandated improvements for the area.

Public Works Director Addie Javed argued that, despite the past construction,

current traffic conditions could be managed with fewer units.

County Attorney Jennifer Shuler emphasized that the Board was voting for a second

public hearing on March 25, 2025.

During the public comments, residents voiced their worries about water usage,

sewage capacity, and the potential for increased traffic from the new development.

Resident Frank Moore raised concerns about the sustainability of the infrastructure,

while Jeanne Koontz questioned how the additional units would impact traffic

congestion. Denise Armente deemed the addition of more houses impractical. Many

residents urged the Board to consider these factors carefully before deciding on the

plan.

With no further comments, the Chairman closed the public hearing.

Chairman Flescher discussed public concerns regarding traffic issues in the Fountain

Subdivision and inquired about the assessments regarding installing a traffic light.

Director Javed reported that a previous analysis found no need for a traffic light, but

staff would revisit the situation in light of resident feedback.

A motion was made by Vice Chairman Loar, seconded by Commissioner Earman,

to approve staff's recommendation. The motion carried by the following vote:

4 -

Aye:

Nay:

Chairman Flescher, Vice Chairman Loar, Commissioner Adams, and Commissioner

Earman

1 - Commissioner Moss

The Chairman called for a recess at 10:26 a.m. and reconvened at 10:35 a.m. with all

members present.

25-0317

11.A.2.

Public Camping Ordinance - LEGISLATIVE

Recommended Action:

The County Attorney’s Office recommends that after the public hearing the Board

vote to approve the proposed ordinance.

Attachments: Staff Report

Affidavit re Public Camping 03.11.25

25.2.7 Public Camping Ordinance Final

24.2.7 IRC Business Impact Estimate Public Camping Ordinance

County Attorney Chris Hicks introduced a Public Camping Ordinance aimed at

aligning with Florida Statute 125.231, which prohibited camping and sleeping in

unauthorized areas. Attorney Hicks pointed out that not adopting this Ordinance

could lead to potential lawsuits and stressed that its purpose was to ensure community

safety while being mindful of those without stable housing.

Commissioner Moss raised concerns about how the County would handle situations

where natural disasters left individuals homeless. In response, Chairman Flescher

clarified that the County Administrator had the authority to issue emergency orders to

adjust regulations as necessary during such crises. County Attorney Jennifer Shuler

added that during declared emergencies, lawsuits against the County would be off the

table.

The Chairman opened the Public Hearing.

Public comments included concerns from Arianna Lauritano of RiteLife Services, who

argued that the Ordinance risked criminalizing homelessness without addressing its

root causes. She advocated for more supportive measures rather than fines and

arrests. Marty Mercado from Hope for Families Center highlighted the challenges

faced by children experiencing homelessness and suggested that coordinated

community efforts were essential to assist families in need.

Meredith Egan, CEO of United Way of Indian River County, criticized the Ordinance

for placing first responders as social workers, and calling for amendments to enhance

connections between individuals and necessary services. She recommended

considering innovative strategies such as emergency shelters and expanded outreach

initiatives. Rayme Nuckles from the Treasure Coast Homeless Services Council

encouraged the Board to adopt measures preventing displacement and suggested

involving the Homeless Continuum of Care in decision-making regarding individuals

on public property.

Christian Hammarskjold, a Homeless Children’s Services Foundation Board

Member, emphasized the importance of collaborating with various organizations to

address homelessness, warning that involving law enforcement could complicate

matters for struggling families. Resident Lalita Janke called for a compassionate

community response, proposing temporary housing solutions, and postponing punitive

measures for those recently released from jail or facing economic hardship.

In response, Attorney Hicks clarified the Ordinance concerning public camping,

detailing that potential penalties outlined in Section 4 would come into play only after

warnings had been issued. He explained that "public camping" was not strictly defined

but included streets and County properties while excluding private land and fields.

Notably, the Ordinance did not explicitly address individuals living in vehicles but

focused on public spaces.

Attorney Hicks suggested requiring law enforcement to connect with local service

providers when dealing with such situations, allowing for flexibility in addressing

individual circumstances. The Ordinance aimed to improve living conditions for those

in need by promoting alternatives to street living rather than leaning toward punitive

actions. He stressed that law enforcement's role was not just to enforce penalties but

also to provide support and public service.

Further discussions between the Board and staff revolved around refining the referral

process to community services, taking into account input from local organizations

while ensuring that the language remained adaptable for effective law enforcement

action.

Chairman Flescher expressed concerns about the potential to criminalize

homelessness and advocated for systematic solutions that upheld the dignity of

individuals while addressing issues related to public space. Attorney Hicks reiterated

key points about the proposed Ordinance, emphasizing that law enforcement would

prioritize issuing warnings before applying penalties and underlining the need to

connect individuals with local service providers.

With no further comments, the Chairman closed the Public Hearing.

Vice Chairman Loar remarked that the Ordinance was in line with recent legislative

changes in Florida and highlighted that the priority for law enforcement was not to

arrest homeless individuals but to explore all available resources before considering

such actions.

A motion was made by Vice Chairman Loar, seconded by Chairman Flescher, to

1) approve staff's recommendation; and Ordinance 2025-006, creating Section 16

of Chapter 306, titled “Prohibition of Public Camping or Sleeping within County

Buildings or on its Grounds, Streets, Sidewalks, Right-of-Way and other Public

Property”; providing for conflicts; providing for severability; providing for

codification; and providing for an effective date. 2) Instruct staff to include the

penalties for individuals who do not vacate public property after receiving a

warning and to clarify the referral process to community services in the

Ordinance. The motion carried by the following vote:

5 -

Aye:

Chairman Flescher, Vice Chairman Loar, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner

Earman, and Commissioner Moss

B. PUBLIC NOTICE ITEMS

25-0299

11.B.1.

Notice of Scheduled Public Hearing for Budget Amendment 02 for the March 25,

2025 Board Meeting

Recommended Action:

No Action Needed

Attachments: Staff Report

Read into the record by County Attorney Jennifer Shuler

12. COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR MATTERS

13. DEPARTMENTAL MATTERS

A. Building and Facilities Services

B. Community Services

C. Emergency Services

D. Human Resources

E. Information Technology

F. Natural Resources

25-0302

13.F.1.

Indian River County Climate Vulnerability Assessment Update

Recommended Action:

Staff recommend that the Board of County Commissioners provide comments for

incorporation into the draft Climate Vulnerability Assessment.

Attachments: Staff Report

Natural Resources Director Kylie Yanchula introduced Tetra Tech Project

Manager Georgia Vince and Attorney Erin Deady, a Certified Land Planner, who

presented a draft of the Indian River County Climate Vulnerability Assessment.

This assessment evaluated the County's infrastructure vulnerability to flooding

hazards and was crucial for securing Resilient Florida funding for flood risk

projects. Comments during this process were incorporated into the final

document, which was set for Board adoption on March 25, 2025.

In a PowerPoint presentation, Ms. Vince outlined the project objectives:

identifying vulnerabilities, addressing flooding hazards as per state legislation,

guiding future actions, and increasing eligibility for grants. Attorney Deady

highlighted the need for consistent vulnerability assessments as mandated by

Florida Statute (F.S.) 380.093 (3) (C). The assessment included critical asset

inventories, the creation of a summary report with maps, and exposure analyses

for potential water interactions in 2040, 2070, and 2100. She clarified that the

exposure analysis focused on land elevation, rainfall projections, and sea level

rise, excluding stormwater infrastructure.

During the discussion, Commissioner Moss suggested including the Vero Beach

Museum of Art due to its flood protection improvements and sought clarification

on "mitigation" strategies. Ms. Vince emphasized the importance of mitigation and

adaptation strategies, including floodproofing and relocating equipment. Further

discussion underscored the need for community collaboration and financial

support from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection to enhance

resilience planning against climate change and flooding

No Action Taken or Required

G. Office of Management and Budget

The Chairman called for a recess at 11:38 a.m. and reconvened at 11:48 a.m. with all

members present.

H. Parks, Recreation, and Conservation

25-0319

13.H.1.

ELAP Ranking List of Environmental Lands Acquisition Properties for the Initial

Nomination Period

Recommended Action:

Staff respectfully request that the Board of County Commissioners approve the

attached ELAP Final Ranking and Tiered List of Nominations. Staff further

requests the Board authorize staff to pursue Tier 1 Ranked Properties for

acquisition consistent with the Environmental Lands Acquisition Panel’s

recommendation including the authority to make conditional offers of purchase

and sale subject to approval by the Board of County Commissioners and in

accordance with Florida Statute Section 125.355.

Attachments: Staff Report

ELAP Ranking Table

Beth Powell, Director of Parks, Recreation & Conservation, announced the initial

rankings for the Environmental Lands Acquisition Program (ELAP) and

encouraged the community to continue submitting nominations. She added that the

bond referendums in 1992 and 2004 raised approximately $138 million for land

acquisition in Indian River County, ultimately leading to the management of over

2,300 acres by the County. In 2022, voters approved a new bond that allocated

$50 million for environmental land protection over the next two decades.

Wendy Swindell, Assistant Director of Parks, Recreation & Conservation,

presented a PowerPoint on the newly approved Environmental Lands Program

Guide (ELP Guide), which the Board endorsed on December 12, 2023. This

guide outlined the policies for acquiring and managing environmentally significant

lands. The ELAP consisted of nine members who reviewed nominated parcels

and established priorities for acquisition. They held 15 meetings from August

2023 to January 2025.

Ms. Swindell highlighted five key factors related to property quality, emphasizing

ecological value and resource availability using the ELP guide and GIS Hub. She

also explained the ELAP Scoring Matrix Evaluation Criteria, which assisted the

panel in ranking parcels into three tiers based on criteria such as Natural

Communities, Habitat Value, and Recreational and Educational potential. The

presentation included the final rankings and project tiers for Fee Simple and

Easement nominations under the ELAP.

The Board expressed gratitude to the ELAP for their contributions to protecting

crucial wetland areas and the Indian River Lagoon. The Board and staff discussed

the regulatory challenges impacting development scores in these ecological

regions, particularly focusing on tier-one properties and sellers' compliance with

County conservation requirements. Acknowledging the complexities of the

acquisition process, staff highlighted that potential changes could arise during

negotiations.

Attorney George Glenn Jr. shared that his involvement in environmental programs

began as a teenager in Indian River County. He stressed the importance of

obtaining matching grant funds from the State of Florida, the federal government,

and local entities for the program's success. Mr. Glenn noted that nearly 22

Florida counties had land conservation programs and criticized the previous

practice of acquiring properties before seeking reimbursement grants. He

advocated for a more proactive approach, suggesting that the County identify

potential matching funds, such as those from the Florida Communities Trust,

before making purchases and presenting proposals to the Board. Chairman

Flescher expressed his appreciation for Mr. Glenn’s enthusiasm.

Deputy County Administrator Mike Zito explained that the ELAP members

possess a high level of expertise in evaluating applications. He expressed

confidence in their ability to identify potential cost-sharing opportunities. While

staff were skilled at analyzing possible outcomes, he emphasized the importance

of acknowledging the limitations of the process.

A motion was made by Commissioner Earman, seconded by Chairman

Flescher, to approve staff's recommendation. The motion carried by the

following vote:

5 -

Aye:

Chairman Flescher, Vice Chairman Loar, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner

Earman, and Commissioner Moss

I. Planning and Development Services

J. Public Works

K. Sandridge Golf Club

L. Utilities Services

The Chairman called for a recess at 12:52 a.m. and reconvened at 1:02 p.m. with all

members present.

14. COUNTY ATTORNEY MATTERS

Application - SabiaVincent (p&zc)

Resume - SabiaVincent

Application - Resume - Karl L Zimmerman

Application - BettencourtRichardA (p&zc)

Resume - KorparMichaelT

Application - BrognanoTodd

Application - GoldenPaul (p&zc)

Application - LowtherThomas S (p&zc)

Resume - LowtherThomas S

Application - VocelleDianaE (p&zc)

Resume - VocelleDianaE

County Attorney Jennifer Shuler clarified that no votes were taken on

member-at-large positions at the previous January 25, 2025, Board meeting. The

applicants being presented were related to those positions. Attorney Shuler

recommended that each applicant be reviewed individually.

The first committee was the Affordable Housing Advisory Committee (AHAC),

which had one vacancy. Two applicants applied: Wendy McDaniel Vocelle, currently

a Children's Services Advisory Committee (CSAC) Grants Subcommittee member,

and Desiree Samuels-Shultz.

Chairman Flescher revisited a point made during the January meeting about individuals

serving on multiple committees. Commissioner Earman expressed a preference for

limiting members to one committee at a time. Additionally, the discussion centered

around the potential consideration of term limits for member-at-large positions,

acknowledging that while some members had commendably served for long periods,

it was important to recognize their contributions without rigidly enforcing term limits.

Attorney Shuler reminded the Board that they had the authority to remove any

member from a committee for any reason, applicable to both designees and individual

appointments. She emphasized that committee members served at the pleasure of the

Board and should reflect the community's needs. She noted the legal limitations

surrounding service on Regulatory Boards; one individual could not serve on multiple

Regulatory Boards. During the review of applicants, those wishing to serve on several

Regulatory Boards were removed from consideration because of this restriction.

Commissioner Earman sought to ensure that each member would serve on only one

committee at a time and proposed a term limit of eight years. He also suggested

implementing an attendance policy to address members missing three plus meetings in

a year.

Attorney Shuler informed Commissioner Earman that the changes he proposed could

not be addressed in the current meeting, as they would require an Ordinance due to

existing code provisions. She recommended that the Board make decisions based on

current sentiments and guide her to prepare proposed code changes for a future

meeting.

In an effort to move the discussion forward, Commissioner Adams nominated Wendy

McDaniel Vocelle for the AHAC. She praised Ms. Vocelle for her consistent

attendance and active participation and highlighted her qualifications as a citizen

advocate for low-income individuals in affordable housing.

However, during discussions, it was noted that Ms. Vocelle's affiliation with another

committee raised concerns about alignment with the Board's perspective. While Ms.

Vocelle was part of the CSAC Grants Subcommittee, not the main committee, Vice

Chairman Loar expressed that nominating her would set a precident allowing

individuals to serve on multiple committees and subcommittees.

Commissioner Adams acknowledged Vice Chairman Loar's concerns about the

distinction between subcommittees and main committees. She pointed out that no

formal policy existed at that time. She suggested that the Board address existing gaps

before amending current policies.

A lengthy discussion ensued between the Board and Attorney Shuler, underscoring

the importance of preserving continuity within committees. Given that not all members

were re-elected simultaneously, this continuity was vital to prevent disruptions in

ongoing initiatives.

The Chairman called the question.

A motion was made by Commissioner Adams, seconded by Chairman Flescher,

to appoint Wendy McDaniel Vocelle to the Affordable Housing Advisory

Committee (AHAC). The motion carried by the following vote:

5 -

Aye:

Chairman Flescher, Vice Chairman Loar, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner

Earman, and Commissioner Moss

Commissioner Earman put forth the nominations of Michael T. Korpar and James E.

Power for the Beach and Shore Preservation Advisory Committee (BSPAC). He

highlighted that Mr. Korpar served as the Director of Maintenance and Management

at John's Island, where he played a vital role in advancing the Sector 4 project by

obtaining the necessary applications and easements. Additionally, Mr. Power, a

native of Indian River County, brought years of engineering experience from his time

in Texas and was keen to contribute his expertise to the committee.

A motion was made by Commissioner Earman, seconded by Commissioner Moss,

to appoint Michael T. Kopar to the Beach and Shore Preservation Advisory

Committee (BSPAC). The motion carried by the following vote:

A motion was made by Commissioner Earman, seconded by Commissioner Moss,

to appoint James E. Power to the Beach and Shore Preservation Advisory

Committee (BSPAC). The motion carried by the following vote:

5 -

Aye:

Chairman Flescher, Vice Chairman Loar, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner

Earman, and Commissioner Moss

There was no discussion prior to the nomination.

A motion was made by Commissioner Adams, seconded by Commissioner Moss,

to appoint Jan Williams to the Children's Services Advisory Committee (CSAC)

The motion carried by the following vote:

5 -

Aye:

Chairman Flescher, Vice Chairman Loar, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner

Earman, and Commissioner Moss

There was no discussion prior to the nomination.

Commissioner Moss made a motion to nominate Lance Lunceford to the

Economic Development Council (EDC) Member at Large position. It failed for lack

of a Second.

Commissioner Adams expressed concerns about attendance at the Economic

Development Council (EDC). After reviewing the attendance records, she noted that

Mr. Howder and Mr. Zimmerman had nearly perfect attendance. Unfortunately, she

could not say the same for some other committee members.

A discussion followed regarding the EDC's effectiveness and future direction, with

some suggesting that reorganization could be beneficial. Additionally, external

organizations may have influenced the EDC's activities, which deserved further

attention. The importance of volunteer participation was highlighted as a key factor in

the committee's overall operations.

A motion was made by Vice Chairman Loar, seconded by Commissioner Adams,

to appoint Todd Howder to the Economic Development Council (EDC). The

motion carried by the following vote:

5 -

Aye:

Chairman Flescher, Vice Chairman Loar, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner

Earman, and Commissioner Moss

Commissioner Adams discussed Taxpayers Association President Lance Lunceford's

interest in the Economic Development Study and the productive dialogue fostered in

that area.

A motion was made by Commissioner Adams, seconded by Commissioner Moss,

to appoint Lance Lunceford to the Economic Development Council (EDC). The

motion carried by the following vote:

5 -

Aye:

Chairman Flescher, Vice Chairman Loar, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner

Earman, and Commissioner Moss

25-0324

14.B.

Resolution To Set Second Hearing Concerning the Special Assessment Providing for

The Replacement of Culverts for Waters Edge Phase II Subdivision

Recommended Action:

County staff recommends that the Board approve the Resolution setting the date and

time for the Second hearing on the Waters Edge Special Assessment in compliance

with the procedures outlined in Chapter 206 of the Code.

Attachments: Staff Report

Draft Resolution

Special Assessment Roll

Assistant County Attorney Chris Hicks requested that the Board adopt a Resolution

to set a hearing concerning the Special Assessment Waters Edge subdivision culvert

replacements. He noted that the first Resolution had been approved at the October 8,

2024, Board meeting, and that work had already begun. According to the Code, a

second hearing was required, during which the Board would act as an “Equalizing

Board” to determine individual assessments for each lot. This hearing would also

provide an opportunity for the affected landowners to come forward and appeal.

Attorney Hicks urged the Board to pass the Resolution and set the hearing date for

April 8, 2025, which would allow the necessary notices and paperwork to be sent to

all affected landowners.

There was no further discussion on this Item.

A motion was made by Vice Chairman Loar, seconded by Commissioner Adams,

to approve staff's recommendation and Resolution 2025-011, setting a time and

place at which the owners of properties, located in Waters Edge Phase II

Subdivision in Indian River County, Florida, and other interested persons, may

appear before the Board of County Commissioners of Indian River County and be

heard as to the propriety and advisability of the replacement of culvert piping, as

to the cost thereof, as to the manner of payment therefore, and as to the amount

thereof to be specially assessed against each property benefited thereby. The

motion carried by the following vote:

5 -

Aye:

Chairman Flescher, Vice Chairman Loar, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner

Earman, and Commissioner Moss

25-0330

14.C.

Calcutta Drive Docks License Agreements

Recommended Action:

Staff recommends that the Board approve the form of the new dock lease agreement

and that it direct staff on additional matters involving the leases.

Attachments: Staff Report

2025 Resolution

2025 Proposed Non- Transferable Lease Agmt

2022 Agenda Items and Attachments

Tabled

15. COMMISSIONERS MATTERS

A. Commissioner Joseph E. Flescher, Chairman

B. Commissioner Deryl Loar, Vice Chairman

C. Commissioner Susan Adams

D. Commissioner Joseph H. Earman

E. Commissioner Laura Moss

16. SPECIAL DISTRICTS AND BOARDS

A. Emergency Services District

B. Solid Waste Disposal District

25-0323

16.B.1.

Approval of SWDD Meeting Minutes of December 03, 2024

Approve

Recommended Action:

Attachments: 12032024SWDD draft

A motion was made by Commissioner Earman, seconded by Chairman

Flescher, to approve the SWDD minutes of December 03, 2024, as written.

The motion carried by the following vote:

5 -

Aye:

Chairman Flescher, Vice Chairman Loar, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner

Earman, and Commissioner Moss

25-0367

16.B.2.

Approval of SWDD Meeting Minutes of December 17, 2024

Approve

Recommended Action:

Attachments: 12172024SWDD Draft

A motion was made by Commissioner Earman, seconded by Chairman

Flescher, to approve the SWDD minutes of December 17, 2024, as written.

The motion carried by the following vote:

5 -

Aye:

Chairman Flescher, Vice Chairman Loar, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner

Earman, and Commissioner Moss

25-0251

16.B.3.

Request for Approval of Change Orders to CK Contractors and Development

(CK) for Landfill Improvement Projects

Recommended Action:

Solid Waste Disposal District staff recommends that its Board approve change

orders to CK Contractors and Development (CK) for $878,004.12, with an

amended overall total of $1,799,331.98, to provide construction services for

landfill improvement projects, and authorize the Purchasing Manger to issue

change orders to CK.

Attachments: Staff Report

CO No 1 to CK for Automated Scale Lane Project

CO No 1 to CK for the Yard Waste Driveway Project

Himanshu Mehta, the Managing Director of the Solid Waste Disposal District

(SWDD), provided an update on the Landfill Improvement project. This initiative

included the construction of a new concrete pad, a high-pressure skid, and a

driveway crossing in connection with the Nopetro initiative. CK Contractors was

selected for the job due to the lack of bids.

Mr. Mehta noted that the project encountered delays primarily due to weather

conditions and the Indian River County Water Control District's (IRFWCD)

rejection of a 43-inch pipe. This setback forced a switch to a 48-inch pipe,

resulting in necessary change orders. He requested additional funding to see the

project through as equipment rental costs had increased. The team needed to

complete the project before the next rainy season while addressing water quality

concerns. However, they would continue to face challenges with installing sheet

piles and managing budget overruns, with some project components still pending.

During discussion, the Board and staff addressed the change order that led to

increased costs for the pipe. The staff planned to attempt to resell the 43-inch

pipe that was ultimately not used. There were inquiries about the notifications from

the IRFWCD to the County, which contributed to delays concerning dewatering,

bypass operations, and a permit reversal. Mr. Mehta estimated that overall delays

could extend between six to nine months, alongside an additional cost of around

$220,000. Completing the project was crucial, and pursuing legal remedies was

unlikely to yield effective results. It was emphasized that the challenges stemmed

from decisions made by external boards rather than the actions of staff. Questions

were raised about accountability regarding a $43,000 pipe purchase tied to

changes from the IRFWCD. The transparency of Kimley-Horn and their

adherence to engineering principles were acknowledged, as efforts to collaborate

with the IRFWCD had seen limited success.

A motion was made by Commissioner Earman, seconded by Commissioner

Adams, to approve staff's recommendation. The motion carried by the

following vote:

5 -

Aye:

Chairman Flescher, Vice Chairman Loar, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner

Earman, and Commissioner Moss

[Clerks note: Item 16.B.4. was heard after Item 5]

25-0328

16.B.4.

Residential Paper Shredding Event on April 12, 2025

Recommended Action:

Solid Waste Disposal District staff recommends that the Board approve the Spring

Residential Paper Shredding Event to be held on April 12, 2025.

Attachments: Staff Report

Contract MOU with WM of Florida

Recycling Specialist Jill Brown announced the Residential Paper Shredding event

would be held on Saturday, April 12, 2025, from 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at

Southeast Secure Shredding.

No Action Taken or Required

25-0364

16.B.5.

Update on the Invitation to Bids for the Landfill and the Customer Convenience

Centers

Recommended Action:

Solid Waste Disposal District staff is requesting Board input on the scope of work as

detailed in the invitation to bid.

Attachments: Staff Report

Updated SWDD CCC Policy and Procedure

Himanshu Mehta, the Managing Director of the Solid Waste Disposal District

(SWDD), presented an update through a PowerPoint regarding the Invitation to Bid

(ITB) for the landfill and Customer Convenience Centers (CCC).

An agreement with Republic Services concerning the County's Class 1 landfill, initially

signed in November 2010, and extended in February 2017, had a revised expiration

date of September 30, 2025, following a nine-month extension.

Two ITBs were released for landfill operations and the five CCCs on January 10,

2025. Mr. Mehta clarified that the ITB was divided into Phase I for Vendor

Qualification and Phase II for Vendor Bids. The SWDD staff recommended a

10-year agreement covering October 1, 2025, to September 30, 2035, with an

option to renew for another 10 years.

Potential vendors were requested to submit bids for operations seven days a week

and an alternative proposal should the landfill be closed on Sundays, based on traffic

studies showing low tonnage on that day.

Although the current CCC hours would remain the same, a Sunday closure could

influence the landfill's operation schedule. Mr. Mehta stressed the importance of a fair

and transparent bidding procedure, complying with the Cone of Silence regulation that

took effect on January 10, 2025.

Chairman Flescher thanked Mr. Mehta for the update.

No Action Taken or Required

C. Environmental Control Board

17. PUBLIC COMMENT: NON-AGENDA-RELATED MATTERS