Aerial Photo

Emerson Oaks Developer Agreement

Chairman Flescher introduced the parties to the proceeding as Indian River

County and Pulte Home Company, LLC. (Pulte) (Applicant). As requested by

the Chairman, each Commissioner disclosed ex parte communications, site visits,

or independent investigations. The Commissioners also affirmed that they have an

open mind and can base their decisions on the evidence presented and the

applicable law.

The Deputy Clerk administered the Oath to all persons who wished to speak at

the hearing.

The Chairman opened the public hearing.

Deputy County Attorney Susan Prado presented the proposed Emerson Oaks

residential development, which included 171 single-family lots located at 43rd

Avenue SW and 13th Street SW, to be developed in three phases. Phase 1A

featured 7 model home lots, an entrance on 13th Street SW, and a stormwater

pond. Phase 1B consisted of 70 lots and an amenity center. Phase 2 included 94

lots and a new entrance on 17th Street SW. To manage anticipated growth, the

developer was required to provide various improvements, including dedicating

right-of-way, implementing traffic enhancements, and contributing 3.7% toward

the future 17th Street SW bridge. A second public hearing was scheduled for

November 4, 2025.

Commissioner Moss raised concerns about the Stormwater Treatment Facilities

and the associated impact fees outlined in the Developer's Agreement. She

highlighted that the agreement's wording, specifically the phrase "minimum

applicable" standards set by the St. Johns River Water Management District

(SJRWMD), was insufficient for ensuring effective water treatment.

Commissioner Moss advocated adopting practices that aligned with higher

standards. In response, Ms. Prado explained that the County was limited to

enforcing only the minimum legal requirements established by SJRWMD and

could not impose additional standards beyond those mandated by law.

Acting Planning and Development Services Director Ryan Sweeney responded to

Commissioner Moss, clarifying that all public benefits, project-required

improvements, and additional elements had already been established in the

Planned Development (PD) approval. This process served as a contractual

agreement to ensure these components were implemented through the

Developer's Agreement. He noted that the right-of-way dedications outlined the

minimum requirements, as well as any enhancements beyond them, which applied

to contributions for the bridge and other items. All these details had been agreed

upon during the original PD approval, and the current agreement facilitated these

commitments with the County.

Attorney Logan Wellmeier, representing the Applicant, addressed Commissioner

Moss regarding the HOA documents. He stated that these documents would be

part of the public record and included in every purchase agreement. He

emphasized that regular meetings and assessments would be mandatory for all

community residents. Residents would have a clear understanding of the HOA

and their responsibilities towards it, eliminating any confusion about the County's

obligation to maintain internal roads. Additionally, Mr. Wellmeier noted that the

developer's turn lanes effectively mitigated any potential impacts on the area. He

highlighted the added benefit of the right-of-way provided on 13th Street SW and

43rd Avenue, which would facilitate the realignment of 13th Street SW. This

realignment had been essential for a portion of the Indrio Point project, which was

already approved. Furthermore, he noted that their contributions toward the

bridge connecting 17th Street created a thoroughfare from east to west. The

impact of their project did not mandate these contributions; instead, they

represented additional benefits that Pulte offered to the County as a good partner.

Vero Beach resident Lisa Snycerski proposed regulations to ensure that new

developments proceed only when current vacant homes are filled, emphasizing

that rampant development was not beneficial to wildlife or current residents.

There being no further comments, the Chairman closed the public hearing.

A motion was made by Commissioner Adams, 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

25-0931

11.A.2.

Public Hearing - Approval of Resolution Establishing the IRC HCV

Program Five Year Plan, Certifications and Administrative Plan

Recommended Action:

Staff respectfully recommends that the Board of County Commissioners approve

the resolution adopting the IRC Housing Choice Voucher Program Five-Year

Plan (2026-2030) and Administrative Plan and authorize submission to the U.S.

Department of Housing and Urban Development.

Attachments: IRCHSD Administrative Plan 2025

Resolution FY 2026 HCV 5 Yr Plan HCV Admin Policy 4.28.25

Form-HUD-50075-5Y-for-FL132-ID-3464

Form-HUD-50077-CR-for-FL132-ID-3594

Form-HUD-50077-SL-for-FL132-ID-4480

Indian River County Housing Services Manager Stacey Bush presented the

request for approval of the Housing Choice Voucher Program's (PHA) 5-year

Public Housing Agency Plan and Administrative Plan, as mandated by the

Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The public review

period saw minimal engagement, and no comments were submitted. The Housing

Services Division currently managed 439 vouchers, assisting nearly 800 residents,

including children, seniors, veterans, and individuals with disabilities. Ms. Bush

also mentioned a request for 10 additional vouchers for the Veterans’ Program,

which was awaiting HUD's response and had received strong support from the

West Palm Beach VA Medical Center and the local Continuum of Care.

Chairman Flescher opened the public hearing.

Resident Lisa Snycerski voiced her support for housing for veterans and other

community members.

There being no further comments, the Chairman closed the public hearing.

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

to approve staff's recommendation and Resolution 2025-064, approving the

Indian River County Housing Choice Voucher Program Five Year Plan,

certifications, and Administrative Plan with the necessary attachments. 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

25-1009

11.B.1.

Notice of Scheduled Public Hearing for Budget Amendment 06 for the

November 4, 2025 Board Meeting

Recommended Action:

The referenced public notice item is provided for the Board's information. No

action is needed at this time.

Deputy County Attorney Susan Prado read the notice into the record.

12. COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR MATTERS

25-0996

Proposed Commission Meeting Dates for CY 2026

12.A.

Recommended Action:

Staff recommends approval of the proposed Board of County Commission Regular

Meeting dates for the Calendar Year 2026.

Attachments: BoCC Meeting Dates Draft 2026

Postponed/Continued

25-1012

12.B.

Ratification of Collective Bargaining Agreement between Indian River

County Emergency Services District and Indian River County

Firefighters/Paramedics Association, Local 2201, IAFF Effective October

1, 2025 through September 30, 2027

Recommended Action:

Staff respectfully recommends approval of the Agreement and requests that the Board

of County Commissioners authorize its Chairman to sign the full Agreement.

Attachments: Proposed IAFF Rank and File Agreement

Proposed IAFF Pay Plan

County Administrator John Titkanich presented a two-year agreement featuring a 4%

wage increase for eligible employees, effective in October 2025 through September

30, 2027. The contract also included significant increases in paramedic incentives, the

introduction of a new Kelly Day to reduce work hours, and additional pay incentives

for Rescue Sergeants and dual-certified employees. The tuition assistance fund was

increased to support employees pursuing the Florida Paramedic Certification.

Administrator Titkanich thanked the Board for their leadership during negotiations,

noting successful contracts for both Battalion Chiefs and rank-and-file members. With

this agreement, all unions were under contract.

Chairman Flescher expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts that led to this

milestone, emphasizing the importance of communication throughout the process.

Commissioner Earman supported the agreement, highlighting the significance of the

Kelly Days and educational incentives for young paramedics. Vice Chairman Loar

remarked on the collective bargaining process and the pride felt for Indian River

County following this agreement.

Approved staff's recommendation

25-1015

2026 Indian River County Legislative Priorities

12.C.

Recommended Action:

Review and approve the proposed 2026 Indian River County Legislative Priorities as

presented, and to include authorizing staff to take the necessary steps to present a

Local Bill at the Indian River County 2026 Delegation Meeting, re: Compensation for

Health Care Services for Inmates in Indian River County..

Attachments: Inmate Medical Summary (20251016) JT revised

Inmate Medical MC HB4007 Analysis

Kathy Copeland, Legislative Affairs and Communications Manager, introduced Kim

Sugar and Alexandria Kernan from Arrow Group, highlighting their roles in

environmental policy. Ms. Copeland presented slides that outlined the County's

Overarching Guiding Principles, including support for County Home Rule. She briefed

on upcoming state issues, highlighting significant property tax reform efforts and

funding requests for septic-to-sewer conversions. She sought authority to address

off-site inmate medical costs, with Representative Brackett agreeing to sponsor a bill

aligned with state corrections provisions. She noted state support for the Fellsmere

Public Library Community Resource Center, mentioning a donation of land by the

City of Fellsmere, and emphasized the need for ongoing funding. Ms. Copeland

reminded the Board of crucial federal issues, including the impact of the FEMA

Reform Act, and the ongoing inventory of lead pipes in Indian River County, with no

current issues found. She stressed the importance of monitoring developments given

their potential implications and requested the Board's authorization to proceed with

the legislative strategy for 2026, noting the upcoming legislative delegation meeting on

October 22, 2025.

Commissioner Adams expressed gratitude to Representative Brackett for agreeing to

sponsor the Inmate Medical Bill. She remarked that this was in line with what St.

Lucie and Martin counties have also done in the past, and it would help control those

costs and protect the County moving forward. Commissioner Adams mentioned

Senate Bill 180, noting that there had been discussions about its unintended

consequences. She noted that Manatee County had been advocating this issue and

had spent the previous week in Tallahassee discussing several topics, with Senate Bill

180 among their main focus points. She thanked Ms. Copeland for her presentation

and appreciated how well she represents Indian River County in Tallahassee.

Vice Chairman Loar highlighted that when it came to Inmate Medical Care, the

County's representatives were limited to sponsoring only eight bills. As such, the

Board should take pride in Representative Brackett's efforts, as this initiative was

poised to save taxpayers substantial money.

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

to approve the legislative priorities as presented. The motion carried by the

following vote:

25-0995

13.F.1.

Award of Bid 2025060 - Sector 5 Hurricanes Ian and Nicole Beach and

Dune Restoration Project

Recommended Action:

Staff recommends that the Sector 5 Hurricanes Ian and Nicole Beach and Dune

Restoration Project (Bid 2025060) be awarded to Guettler Brothers

Construction LLC, in the amount of $6,552,025.00 and request that the Board

County Commissioners approve the sample agreement and authorize the

Chairmen to execute said agreement after review and approval of the agreement

by the County Attorney as to form and legal sufficiency, and after receipt and

approval of the require public construction bond and insurance.

Attachments: Sample Agreement_Sector 5 Project

APTIM Bid Recommendation Letter

Coastal Resources Manager Quintin Bergman presented the Beach and Dune

Restoration Project for Sector 5, which addressed the damage from Hurricanes

Ian and Nicole. He presented the proposed construction contract with Guettler

Brothers Construction, LLC for this project. The Sector 5 area, a 3.1-mile

stretch of critically eroded shoreline from Tracking Station Beach Park to Riomar

Beach Access, experienced significant storm damage and ongoing erosion. This

large-scale restoration aimed to protect properties and restore wildlife habitats.

Mr. Bergman noted that the construction was scheduled for the 2025/2026

window, limited to November 1st to April 30th to avoid disrupting sea turtle

nesting. The project involved placing 153,300 cubic yards of beach-compatible

sand and installing 117,500 native dune plants.

Commissioner Earman stated that this was presented to the Beach and Shore

Preservation Advisory Committee (BSPAC), which had expressed strong

support for the project. He acknowledged staff members for their exceptional

work.

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

25-1001

13.F.2.

Work Order No. 2018029-14 - APTIM Sector 5 Hurricanes Ian and

Nicole Beach and Dune Restoration Project Construction

Administration

Recommended Action:

Staff recommends the BCC authorize Work Order No. 2018029-14 in the total

lump sum amount of $412,630.55. Additionally, staff recommends the BCC

authorize the Chairman to execute Work Order No. 2018029-14 after review

and approval of the agreement by the County Attorney as to form and legal

sufficiency.

Attachments: Work Order No 2018029-14 Agreement with Proposal

Coastal Resources Manager Quintin Bergman presented the proposed contract

with APTIM Environmental & Infrastructure, LLC. (APTIM) for the Beach and

Dune Restoration Project for Sector 5, which addressed the damage from

Hurricanes Ian and Nicole. The Sector 5 area, a 3.1-mile stretch of critically

eroded shoreline from Tracking Station Beach Park to Riomar Beach Access,

experienced significant storm damage and ongoing erosion. This large-scale

restoration aimed to protect properties and restore wildlife habitats.

There was no further discussion on the Item.

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

G. Office of Management and Budget

H. Parks, Recreation, and Conservation

25-1002

13.H.1.

Environmental Lands Acquisition Status Update Regarding a Purchase

Contract – Jungle Trail Island Club Manor

Attachments: Attachment1-Jungle_Trail_Island_Manor_Assessment.pdf

Attachment2-Jungle_Trail_Island_Manor_Appraisals.pdf

Attachment 3-Jungle Trail_Seller Executed PSA

Addendum(5932026.1).pdf

[Clerk Note: Presentation and discussion for this Item was combined with

Item 13.H.2.]

Parks, Recreation & Conservation Director Beth Powell opened the presentation

on the Environmental Land Bond Referendum, highlighting the Environmental

Land Acquisition Panels' (ELAP) role in reviewing and ranking properties based

on their restoration and recreational potential.

Parks, Recreation & Conservation Assistant Director Wendy Swindell presented

two Board-approved Tier 1 properties: 1)Jungle Trail Island Club Manor - a

19.6-acre parcel located south of the Captain Forster Hammock Preserve, and

2) Winter Beach 73rd a 36.99-acre property consisting of two parcels adjacent

to the Indian River Lagoon, with both uplands and wetlands.

Ms. Swindell discussed various restoration and recreation opportunities for these

sites, including restoring herbaceous salt marshes, improving water quality,

protecting the Indian River Lagoon, and creating nature trails and a potential

kayak launch. She noted there would be a 30-day due diligence period following

the November 4, 2025, public hearing.

Commissioner Earman understood that if action was not taken soon, other

developers would seize the opportunity to develop the properties. His main

concern was the need for staff to move quickly, even after acquiring the property.

Commissioner Earman believed that the Board had achieved great success with

ELAP.

Ms. Powell encouraged interested members of the public to attend the ELAP

meeting to gain a better understanding of the deliberation process. She believed

that this meeting was very informative, as it provided insights from various

perspectives. She noted the members of ELAP had been selected and appointed

by the Board to conduct due diligence from diverse viewpoints, including real

estate, natural habitats, ecology, and land management.

No Action Taken or Required

25-1010

13.H.2.

Environmental Lands Acquisition Status Update Regarding a Purchase

Contract - Winter Beach 73rd

Attachments: Attachment 1-Winter_Beach_73rd_Assessment.pdf

Attachment 2-Winter_Beach_73rd_Appraisals.pdf

Attachment 3-Winter Beach 73rd - Draft.pdf

[Clerk Note: See Item 13.H.1. for discussion]

No Action Taken or Required

I. Planning and Development Services

J. Public Works

K. Sandridge Golf Club

L. Utilities Services

14. COUNTY ATTORNEY MATTERS

25-0983

14.A.

Sale of Property at 8811 Highway A1A to Sea Oaks Property Owners

Association, Inc.

Recommended Action:

County staff recommends that the Board agree to the sale of the surplus property to

Sea Oaks and authorize all steps necessary to complete and close the contract.

Attachments: Vacant Land Contract

Addendum 1 to Vacant Land Contract

Affidavit of Publication - Sea Oaks.pdf

Assistant County Attorney Chris Hicks presented the contract to sell surplus land to

Sea Oaks for $859,700. This price differed from the appraised values; however, as

discussed in previous meetings, significant work was needed to remove items left from

its previous use as a wastewater treatment facility. Sea Oaks agreed to take on this

responsibility. The County Administrator and the negotiation team reached an

agreement that satisfied everyone involved.

Attorney Bruce Barkett thanked the staff who had been involved in this process from

the very beginning, acknowledging that it had been a long journey.

A motion was made by Vice Chairman Loar, 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

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

C. Environmental Control Board

17. PUBLIC COMMENT: NON-AGENDA-RELATED MATTERS

Lalita Jenke emphasized the need for a more proactive approach in managing

budgetary needs to protect the livelihoods of every citizen.

Lois Wolfe expressed concerns about the Sheriff's Office budget and a proposed

$2.5 million project to bring the animal shelter under County control, questioning the

need for this investment given that the Humane Society was successfully managing

animal control. She believed the property value was overestimated and suggested

funding the Humane Society instead. In response, Chairman Flescher highlighted

ongoing discussions on animal control issues and the partnership with the Humane

Society, noting capacity constraints and the need for additional resources.

Lisa Snycerski highlighted the emotional impact on families searching for lost pets and

advocated for improved communication and a clear protocol to provide closure for

pet owners. Chairman Flescher explained to Ms. Snycerki that calls about animals on

roadways, injured or deceased, were usually directed to the Sheriff's Office. Animal

Control was then notified, and the Road and Bridge Department handled the removal,

creating a record of any animals found.

No Action Taken or Required

18. ADJOURNMENT

There being no further business, the Chairman adjourned the meeting at 11:48 a.m.