Indian River County Florida  
Indian River County Administration Complex  
1801 27th Street, Building A  
Vero Beach, Florida, 32960-3388  
www.indianriver.gov  
Meeting Minutes - Final  
Tuesday, April 9, 2024  
9:00 AM  
Commission Chambers  
Board of County Commissioners  
Susan Adams, District 1, Chairman  
Joseph Flescher, District 2, Vice Chairman  
Joseph H. Earman, District 3  
Deryl Loar, District 4  
Laura Moss, District 5  
John A. Titkanich, Jr., County Administrator  
William K. DeBraal, County Attorney  
Ryan L. Butler, Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller  
1. CALL TO ORDER  
5 -  
Present:  
Chairman Susan Adams  
Vice Chairman Joseph Flescher  
Commissioner Joe Earman  
Commissioner Laura Moss  
Commissioner Deryl Loar  
2.A. A MOMENT OF SILENT REFLECTION FOR FIRST RESPONDERS AND MEMBERS OF  
THE ARMED FORCES  
2.B. INVOCATION  
Commissioner Deryl Loar  
3. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE  
Commissioner Joseph Flescher  
4. ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA / EMERGENCY ITEMS  
Moved: Item 15.B.A to be heard after Item 5.C.  
A motion was made by Vice Chairman Flescher, seconded by Commissioner  
Moss, to approve the Agenda as amended. The motion carried by the following  
vote:  
5 -  
Aye:  
Chairman Adams, Vice Chairman Flescher, Commissioner Earman, Commissioner  
Moss, and Commissioner Loar  
5. PROCLAMATIONS and PRESENTATIONS  
24-0104  
5.A.  
Proclamation for Prevention of Child Abuse Month, April 2024  
Read & Present  
Recommended Action:  
Attachments: Proclamation  
Joseph Walsh, Region 9 Vice President of The Exchange Club of the Treasure Coast,  
expressed his gratitude to the Board for acknowledging April as the Prevention of  
Child Abuse Month. He mentioned that preventing child abuse had been the national  
project of the Exchange Club since 1979. Mr. Walsh stated that the organization had  
established four child abuse prevention centers in Florida, and they were working on a  
fifth. These centers provided a program called Parenting Matters, which focused on  
keeping families together, preventing abuse, and ensuring that children do not end up  
in foster care.  
Read and presented by Commissioner Earman  
24-0180  
5.B.  
Presentation by the Boys & Girls Club for Junior Youth of the Year and Youth of the  
Year  
Recommended Action:  
Recommend & Present  
Chief Operating Officer of the Boys and Girls Club of Indian River County Laura  
Luettger introduced the 2024 Youth of the Year, Angela Martinez Hernandez. Ms.  
Luettger used a PowerPoint presentation to explain the rigorous competition that  
candidates must undergo. Ms. Hernandez, a first-generation Mexican and the first in  
her family to be born in the United States, presented her competition speech to the  
Board. Chairman Adams wished her luck at the national level.  
Presented by The Boys and Girls Club  
24-0341  
5.C.  
Proclamation Designating April 21-27, 2024 as Crime Victims' Rights Week in Indian  
River County  
Recommended Action:  
Read & Present.  
Attachments: Proclamation  
Paul Zelno, a volunteer with the Indian River County Victims' Rights Coalition  
(Coalition), was joined by Indian River County Sheriff Eric Flowers, Indian River  
County Deputies, Director of Victims’ Services Barbara Faulkner, and other  
volunteers from the Coalition. Mr. Zelno stated the 19th Annual Memorial Vigil  
would be held on April 27, 2024, at 9:00 AM.  
Ms. Faulkner thanked the Board for the Proclamation; she also thanked the Sheriff's  
office, and the Advocates at the State Attorney's office. She stated the Coalition had  
been the most supportive in helping her office provide the financial needs and support  
for victims in Indian River County.  
Sheriff Flowers thanked the Board for taking the time to recognize the victims.  
Vice Chairman Flescher and Mr. Zelno discussed the need for volunteers.  
Read and presented by Vice Chairman Flescher  
6. APPROVAL OF MINUTES  
24-0299  
6.A.  
Regular Meeting of February 6, 2024  
Approve  
Recommended Action:  
Attachments: 02062024 BCC Draft  
A motion was made by Vice Chairman Flescher, seconded by Commissioner  
Earman, to approve the Regular Meeting Minutes of February 6, 2024 as written.  
The motion carried by the following vote:  
5 -  
Aye:  
Chairman Adams, Vice Chairman Flescher, Commissioner Earman, Commissioner  
Moss, and Commissioner Loar  
7. INFORMATION ITEMS FROM STAFF OR COMMISSIONERS NOT REQUIRING BOARD  
ACTION  
24-0302  
7.A.  
Presentation of Proclamation Designating April 22, 2024, As Earth Day 2024  
For informational purposes only - No action required  
Recommended Action:  
Attachments: Proclamation  
Chairman Adams commented on the Proclamation designating April 22, 2024, as  
Earth Day and encouraged everyone to commit to greater causes such as recycling  
education, water conservation, and food waste prevention. She highlighted several  
events happening in the County in recognition of Earth Day.  
No Action Taken or Required  
24-0303  
7.B.  
Presentation of Proclamation Designating April 2024 as Water Conservation Month  
in Indian River County  
Recommended Action:  
For informational purposes only - No action required  
Attachments: Proclamation  
No Action Taken or Required  
24-0313  
7.C.  
Florida Public Service Commission Consummating Order No.  
PSC-2024-0078-FOF-EI, Petition for rate increase by Florida Power & Light  
Company, is on file for review in the Office of the Clerk to the Board.  
Recommended Action:  
Informational Item  
No Action Taken or Required  
24-0320  
7.D.  
Event Calendar  
Recommended Action:  
Informational item; no Board action is required  
Attachments: Staff Report  
No Action Taken or Required  
24-0321  
7.E.  
Celebration of Earth Week in Indian River County  
This item does not require any action by the Board  
Recommended Action:  
Attachments: Staff Report  
No Action Taken or Required  
8. CONSENT AGENDA  
A motion was made by Vice Chairman Flescher, seconded by Commissioner  
Loar, to approve the Consent Agenda as amended, pulling Items 8.H., 8.I., and  
8.X. for discussion. The motion carried by the following vote:  
5 -  
Aye:  
Chairman Adams, Vice Chairman Flescher, Commissioner Earman, Commissioner  
Moss, and Commissioner Loar  
24-0231  
8.A.  
8.B.  
8.C.  
8.D.  
8.E.  
Checks and Electronic Payments February 23, 2024 to February 29, 2024  
Recommended Action:  
Approve the list of checks and electronic payments issued by the Comptroller  
Division for the time period of February 23, 2024 to February 29, 2024  
Attachments: Comptroller Division Staff Report  
Approved  
24-0245  
Checks and Electronic Payments March 1, 2024 to March 7, 2024  
Recommended Action:  
Approve the list of checks and electronic payments issued by the Comptroller  
Division for the time period of March 1, 2024 to March 7, 2024  
Attachments: Comptroller Division Staff Report  
Approved  
24-0290  
Checks and Electronic Payments March 8, 2024 to March 14, 2024  
Recommended Action:  
Approve the list of checks and electronic payments issued by the Comptroller  
Division for the time period of March 8, 2024 to March 14, 2024  
Attachments: Comptroller Division Staff Report  
Approved  
24-0310  
Checks and Electronic Payments March 15, 2024 to March 21, 2024  
Recommended Action:  
Approve the list of checks and electronic payments issued by the Comptroller  
Division for the time period of March 15, 2024 to March 21, 2024  
Attachments: Comptroller Division Staff Report  
Approved  
24-0324  
Checks and Electronic Payments March 22, 2024 to March 28, 2024  
Recommended Action:  
Approve the list of checks and electronic payments issued by the Comptroller  
Division for the time period of March 22, 2024 to March 28, 2024  
Attachments: Comptroller Division Staff Report  
Approved  
24-0309  
8.F.  
Annual Financial Report  
Recommended Action:  
Approve the report and authorize Chairman to execute any related documents.  
Attachments: Comptroller Division Staff Report  
Annual Financial Report  
Approved  
24-0292  
8.G.  
Authorization to Increase Blanket Purchase Orders  
Recommended Action:  
Staff recommends the Board of County Commissioners waive the requirement for  
bids and authorize increases to the listed Purchase Orders, as approved by Budget.  
Attachments: Staff Report  
Approved staff's recommendation  
24-0325  
8.H.  
Insurance Renewal FY25  
Recommended Action:  
Staff recommends that the Board approve the proposed renewal and authorize staff  
to bind coverage for May 1, 2024 through April 30, 2025, with a current annual  
premium of $4,109,489.04. The renewal premium is based upon the current  
schedule of values, coverage selections, and includes the annual broker fee of  
$125,000.  
Attachments: Staff Report  
Executive Summary  
Commissioner Loar stated that the self-insurance fund and property casualty  
insurance must be renewed annually. He wanted to inform the public that the  
insurance needs of county buildings were assessed, and as a result, the rates would  
increase by more than 3%.  
A motion was made by Commissioner Loar, seconded by Commissioner Earman,  
to approve staff's recommendation. The motion carried by the following vote:  
5 -  
Aye:  
Chairman Adams, Vice Chairman Flescher, Commissioner Earman, Commissioner  
Moss, and Commissioner Loar  
24-0223  
8.I.  
Request for Approval of Third Amendment to the Amended and Restated Facility  
Lease Agreement Jackie Robinson Training Complex  
Recommended Action:  
1. Staff recommends the Board of County Commissioners approve the proposed  
Third Amendment to the Amended and Restated Facility Lease Agreement for the  
Jackie Robinson Training Complex and authorize the Chairman to execute the Third  
Amendment in substantial form subject to minor changes after review and approval by  
the County Attorney. 2. Additionally, staff requests the Board of County  
Commissioners waive the requirement for bids in order to allow MLB Verotown to  
manage the additional projects under the Third Amendment and to complete facility  
improvement projects contemplated by the Third Amendment to the Agreement as  
detailed above in a similar manner to the original approval on December 18, 2018,  
and February 9, 2021, and July 12, 2022, respectively.  
Attachments: Staff Report  
First Amendment  
Second Amendment  
Proposed Third Amendment  
Commissioner Moss stated she was opposed to this Item and had voted against  
previous amendment requests on February 9, 2021, and on July 12, 2022.  
Deputy County Administrator Mike Zito stated that the agreement between the  
County and Major League Baseball (MLB) was a partnership in which both parties  
shared the cost of upgrading the facility. As per the amendment to the agreement, the  
remaining surplus funds of $250,000, which were allocated for the asbestos  
remediation project, would be used to cover the plumbing improvements required to  
complete the Villas renovation project. Mr. Zito confirmed that this was the County's  
final obligation, except for the roof repair mentioned in the original agreement.  
Vice Chairman Flescher stated that this relationship with MLB was established so that  
MLB would manage the construction of certain improvements and share responsibility  
for selecting the contractors.  
Mr. Zito responded that the County could not take on this process due to the gravity  
of the current in-house projects. This methodology had worked very well and ensured  
pricing and quality. No new funding was required for this recommendation.  
A motion was made by Vice Chairman Flescher, seconded by Commissioner  
Earman, to approve staff's recommendation. The motion carried by the following  
vote:  
4 -  
Aye:  
Nay:  
Chairman Adams, Vice Chairman Flescher, Commissioner Earman, and  
Commissioner Loar  
1 - Commissioner Moss  
24-0328  
8.J.  
Acceptance of Donation for Westlaw Legal Research Database at Access to Justice  
Recommended Action:  
Staff respectfully recommend that the Board of County Commissioners approve the  
donation from the United Way.  
Attachments: Staff Report  
Approved staff's recommendation  
24-0288  
8.K.  
Restroom Renovations for Main and North County Libraries - Work Order No. 1  
Edlund, Dritenbas, Binkley Architects and Associates, P.A. (IRC-2403)  
Recommended Action:  
Staff recommends the Board of County Commissioners approve Work Order No. 1  
in the not-to-exceed amount total of $45,300.00 with Edlund, Dritenbas, Binkley  
Architects and Associates, P.A and authorize the Chairman to execute the same.  
Attachments: Staff Report  
Work Order No.1  
Approved staff's recommendation  
24-0291  
8.L.  
Approval of Renewal for a Class "B" Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity  
for Indian River Shores Public Safety Department to Provide Inter-facility Ambulance  
Transportation Services  
Recommended Action:  
Staff respectfully recommends that the Board of County Commissioners approve  
renewal of the Class "B" Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity for Indian  
River Shores Public Safety Department to be effective for a period of two (2) years  
from April 15, 2024 to April 15, 2026.  
Attachments: Staff Report  
Renewal Application  
Certificate  
Approved staff's recommendation  
24-0293  
8.M.  
Second Extensions and Amendments to Disaster Debris Management Services  
Agreements  
Recommended Action:  
Staff recommends the Board approve the Second Extension and Amendment  
documents and authorize the Chairman to sign them after the County Attorney has  
approved them as to form and legal sufficiency.  
Attachments: Staff Report  
Second Extension and Amendment - Ceres  
Second Extension and Amendment - Crowder  
Approved staff's recommendation  
24-0294  
8.N.  
Work Order No. 10 - Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc. - Engineering Design  
Services - Administration Complex to Sebastian  
Recommended Action:  
Staff recommends approval of Work Order No. 10 to Kimley-Horn and Associates,  
Inc., authorizing the professional services as outlined in the Scope of Services and  
requests the Board authorize the Chairman to execute Work Order No. 10 on their  
behalf for a lump sum amount of $479,540.00.  
Attachments: Staff Report  
Work Order 10  
Approved staff's recommendation  
24-0296  
8.O.  
Utility Work by Highway Contractor Agreement for Water and Sewer Construction  
on IRC Project 43rd Avenue Bike & Pedestrian Improvements (12th Street to 18th  
Street), IRC-1818  
Recommended Action:  
Staff recommends the Board of County Commissioners approve the ‘Utility Work by  
Highway Contractor Agreement’ for estimated lump sum amount of $694,895.04 and  
requests the Board of County Commissioners authorize the Chairman to execute the  
‘Utility Work by Highway Contractor Agreement’ on their behalf.  
Attachments: Staff Report  
Utility Work by Highway Contractor Agreement  
Approved staff's recommendation  
Request for Release of a Drainage Easement at 5298 Old Dixie Highway  
24-0297  
8.P.  
Recommended Action:  
Staff recommends that the Board, through adoption of the attached Resolution, approve  
the release of the drainage easement at 5298 Old Dixie Highway.  
Attachments: Staff Report  
Map Depicting Easement Proposed for Release  
Proposed County Resolution Releasing Easement  
Approved staff's recommendation and Resolution 2024-013, releasing a drainage  
easement on Lot 1, 53rd Street / US1 commercial subdivision replat of Lots 2 & 3.  
Request for Release of a Portion of the Utility, Drainage, and Golf Course Maintenance  
Easement at 5805 Clubhouse Drive  
24-0308  
8.Q.  
Recommended Action:  
Staff recommends that the Board, through adoption of the attached Resolution, approve  
the release of a portion of the utility, drainage, and golf course maintenance easement at  
5805 Clubhouse Drive  
Attachments: Staff Report  
Portion of Easement Proposed for Release  
Proposed County Resolution  
Approved staff's recommendation and Resolution 2024-014, releasing an  
easement (or portion thereof) on Lot 1, Unit 2 of the Bent Pine subdivision.  
24-0317  
8.R.  
Award of Bid 2024040 - Fairgrounds Ag Pavilion Roof Coating  
Recommended Action:  
Staff recommends the Board award Bid 2024040 to Atlantic Roofing II of Vero  
Beach, Inc. in the amount of $98,967.00. Staff further recommends the Board  
approve the sample agreement and authorize the Chairman to execute said agreement  
after review and approval of both the agreement and required Public Construction  
Bond by the County Attorney as to form and legal sufficiency, and the receipt and  
approval of required insurance by the Risk Manager.  
Attachments: Staff Report  
Agreement  
Approved staff's recommendation  
24-0326  
8.S.  
Resolution Cancelling Taxes on a Property Purchased by the City of Fellsmere for  
Public Purpose  
Recommended Action:  
Authorize the Chairman of the Board of County Commissioners to execute the  
Resolution to cancel current and future ad valorem taxes upon the publicly owned  
land, and the Clerk to send a certified copy of the Resolution to the Tax Collector and  
Property Appraiser so that the current ad valorem taxes and future ad valorem taxes  
may be cancelled.  
Attachments: Staff Report  
Letter  
Resolution  
Approved staff's recommendation and Resolution 2024-015, cancelling certain  
taxes upon publicly owned lands pursuant to Section 196.28, Florida Statutes.  
24-0330  
8.T.  
Easement for Florida City Gas  
Recommended Action:  
Staff recommends that the Board of County Commissioners approve the 0.069 acre  
permanent easement to Florida City Gas in accordance with the attached legal sketch  
and description, authorize the County Attorney’s office to finalize the legal documents  
to record the approved easement, and authorize the Chair to execute the final legal  
documents to effectuate the granting of the approved easement.  
Attachments: Staff Report  
Legal Sketch and Description  
Approved staff's recommendation  
24-0331  
8.U.  
Carter Associates, Inc. Work Order Number 1, RFQ 2023015 - South Oslo  
Riverfront Conservation Area Floodplain Restoration Project Design  
Recommended Action:  
Staff respectfully requests that the Board of County Commissioners approve Carter  
Associates, Inc. Work Order Number 1 - Continuing Consulting Engineering Services  
RFQ 2023-015 for the South Oslo Riverfront Conservation Area Floodplain  
Restoration Project Design in the amount of $39,445.00 and authorize the Chairman  
to execute the same after review and approval by the County Attorney for legal  
sufficiency.  
Attachments: Staff Report  
WO #1 Carter Associates, Inc.  
Approved staff's recommendation  
24-0332  
8.V.  
Sam’s Hobby Barn Developer’s Agreement  
Recommended Action:  
Staff recommends that the Board of County Commissioners approve Sam’s Hobby  
Barn Developer’s Agreement with the County and authorize the Chairman to execute  
the agreement to reimburse Samuel F. Gagliano in the amount of $6,730.80 for the  
work performed in the agreement.  
Attachments: Staff Report  
Developer's Agreement between Samuel F Gagliano and IRC  
Approved staff's recommendation  
24-0335  
8.W.  
FDOT Utility Work by Highway Contractor Agreement for Utilities Relocation on  
CR-510/85th Street from CR-512 to 87th Street  
Recommended Action:  
Staff recommends that the Board approve the Utility Work by Highway Contractor  
Agreement with the Florida Department of Transportation for construction of  
CR-510/85th Street from CR-512 to 87th Street utilities relocation and the budget of  
$3,919,997.58 with 3,266.664.58 payable to Florida Department of Transportation  
and $653,333.00 retained by Indian River County Department of Utility Services for  
cost escalations and authorize the Chair to execute the same. So long as there are no  
changes in the dollar amount under the work orders, upon adequate completion of the  
work set forth in the work orders, staff is directed to make final payments to the  
Florida Department of Transportation, after review and approval by the Purchasing  
Manager and the County Attorney’s Office.  
Attachments: Staff Report  
Utility Work by Highway Contractor Agreement (UWHCA)  
Approved staff's recommendation  
24-0339  
8.X.  
Request Approval to Bid Gifford Elevated Storage Tank Rehabilitation IRCDUS  
Project ID 13.23.538  
Recommended Action:  
Staff recommends that the Indian River County Board of County Commissioners  
authorize the Department of Utility Services solicit bids to select a contractor for the  
Gifford Elevated Storage Tank Rehabilitation project.  
Attachments: Staff Report  
Director of Utility Services Sean Lieske stated that a report done by Kimley-Horn  
Associates (KHA) showed structural deficiencies associated with the Gifford  
Elevated Storage Tank (EST), and the estimate to ensure the tank was stabilized and  
able to be utilized was $559,200. He stated the EST had been isolated from the  
water distribution system and was no longer operational. However, the County  
continued to lease the EST to cellular carriers to mount antennas and ancillary  
equipment. Mr. Lieske added that to maintain the tank's structural integrity, the Indian  
River County Department of Utility Services (IRCDUS) had determined that  
proceeding with the EST rehabilitation was in their best interest. He stated that after  
the repairs were finished, the EST would be handed over to either the Public Works  
Department or the Parks Department for long-term operation and maintenance. The  
EST would continue to be a cellular tower and serve as a landmark for the Gifford  
Community.  
Commissioner Earman was in agreement with keeping the EST and turning it over to  
Public Works after repairs were completed. Mr. Lieske confirmed to Commissioner  
Earman that Information Technology Director Dan Russell had received a  
commitment from Verizon to utilize the tower and that this commitment would offset  
some of the repair costs.  
Vice Chairman Flescher emphasized the importance of maintaining the iconic structure  
in Gifford. He noted that other resources were available to ensure ample public water  
without the use of the EST. Mr. Lieske responded to Commissioner Flescher that the  
EST would be filled with water or other material to keep it stabilized during high wind  
events.  
Vero Beach resident Tom Sullivan did not agree with keeping the EST, and he felt it  
was not a wise use of money. He did not view the EST as an iconic landmark and did  
not feel it was worth the continued maintenance. If declared a Historic Landmark, it  
would generate even more costs, and he felt the EST had outlived its life.  
Anthony Brown, Vero Beach resident, expressed his views on the EST, stating that it  
was an iconic structure that posed no threat to the community. He further added that  
the residents of Gifford took pride in the EST as it represented their community. He  
requested that the Board allow the EST to remain in place.  
A motion was made by Commissioner Earman, seconded by Vice Chairman  
Flescher, to approve staffs recommendation. The motion carried by the following  
vote:  
5 -  
Aye:  
Chairman Adams, Vice Chairman Flescher, Commissioner Earman, Commissioner  
Moss, and Commissioner Loar  
9. CONSTITUTIONAL OFFICERS and GOVERNMENTAL AGENCIES  
10. PUBLIC ITEMS  
A. PUBLIC HEARINGS  
B. PUBLIC DISCUSSION ITEMS  
24-0295  
10.B.1.  
Request to Speak from Siobhan McGoorty of State Attorney's Office re: Sexual  
Assault Awareness Month  
Attachments: Request to Speak  
Siobhan McGoorty of the 19th Judicial Circuit State Attorney’s Office Sexual  
Assault Assistance Program stated that April was Sexual Assault Awareness  
Month, aimed at raising awareness and showing support to survivors. On April  
12, 2024, a Survivor Empowerment Walk would be held at the Indian River  
Courthouse from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. It would be followed by a message from  
survivors and supporters, and a candlelight vigil to show support for survivors in  
Indian River County.  
No Action Taken or Required  
24-0315  
10.B.2.  
Request to Speak J. Calmbach re: Surene Mobile Home Park Code Enforcement  
Issues  
Recommended Action:  
No Action Required  
Attachments: Request to Speak J. Calmbach  
Vero Beach resident Joe Calmbach stated his issue involved six (6) vacant lots in  
Su-Rene Mobile Home Park (Su-Rene), which was established in 1971. Since  
1971, four (4) of the six (6) vacant lots had never had a house on them. He  
stated that a year ago, infrastructure for RV campers and motor coaches had  
begun to be installed. Mr. Calmbach stated he had spoken with Planning and  
Development Services Director Andy Sobczak and Planner Patrick Murphy, and  
was told the property was not zoned for this type of infrastructure and would have  
to be rezoned, and a new site plan would have to be issued, which would require  
a notice and an opportunity to be heard. Under Indian River County Municode  
Section 800.05, letters must be sent to the homeowners; notices must be posted  
on the property, and a hearing before this Board must be held.  
He pointed out that on April 5, 2024, an application for Administrative Approval  
was filed with Indian River County, which does not require all the due process of  
Section 800.05. This meant that the elderly residents of Su-Rene and the  
surrounding community would be left in the dark about the impending change in  
use. According to the Administrative Code, the application for Administrative  
Approval was designed for small changes, such as changing a restaurant to a retail  
space, not for a change of use of the property.  
Mr. Calmbach stressed that this change would impact the values of the homes,  
leaving all of the residents without the knowledge that their property rights were  
about to be altered. He reiterated that the residents and homeowners in Su-Rene  
deserved due process, and this Board had the authority and responsibility to  
ensure due process was upheld. He passionately appealed to the Board to make  
certain that the property received due process and an opportunity to be heard  
before the change in use of the property occurred.  
No Action Taken or Required  
C. PUBLIC NOTICE ITEMS  
24-0319  
10.C.1.  
Notice of a 2nd Special Call Meeting for the Solid Waste and Recyclables  
Collection Services (RFP #2024020)  
Recommended Action:  
Staff recommends issuing a Notice of a 2nd Special Call meeting on Wednesday,  
April 24, 2024, at 4:00 PM in the County Commission Chambers in  
Administration Building A.  
Attachments: Staff Report  
County Attorney Bill DeBraal read the notice into the record.  
The Chairman called for a recess at 10:01 a.m. and reconvened at 10:07 a.m. with all  
members present.  
11. COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR MATTERS  
12. DEPARTMENTAL MATTERS  
A. Community Services  
B. Emergency Services  
C. Human Resources  
D. Information Technology  
E. Natural Resources  
F. Office of Management and Budget  
24-0298  
12.F.1.  
Children's Services Funding Allocation for Fiscal Year 2024/25  
Recommended Action:  
The County Administrator recommends the Board approve funding for Children's  
Services agencies at the current 0.1250 millage rate which would generate  
$3,149,351 in funding for FY 2024/25.  
This amount provides a 13.6% increase or $376,148 additional dollars when  
compared to the current year's funding.  
Attachments: Staff Report  
Funding history FY97/98 - FY24/25  
Children's Services Update  
Senior Budget Analyst Ruth Bommarito stated that the Board of County  
Commissioners approved funding allocation for Children’s Services each year.  
This amount was then allocated to the applicants based on the Children’s Services  
Advisory Committee (CSAC) recommendations. The County had historically  
changed the funding allocation based on the previous fiscal year’s tax roll, with  
exceptions during the economic downturn. On May 17, 2022, the Board  
approved changes to the CSAC Ordinance, which increased the maximum  
millage cap to 0.2500 mills, up from the previous cap of 0.1250 mills. On March  
7, 2023, the Board of County Commissioners elected to keep the millage rate at  
0.1250, or 1/8th of a mill, to fund the Children’s Services programs for FY  
2023/24, which provided $2,773,383 in current fiscal year funding.  
Community Services Director Cindy Emerson expressed her gratitude to the  
Commissioners for their continuous support towards children and families in the  
community. To showcase the remarkable progress made by the CSAC, Ms.  
Emerson utilized a PowerPoint presentation highlighting their significant  
achievements. These accomplishments included a successful social media  
campaign, an updated website, increased fidelity measures, and a considerable  
increase in the frequency of the CSAC meetings. Ms. Emerson emphasized  
funding priorities, which included specific focus on areas ranked by priority and  
associated data indicators. She highlighted prevention, early  
identification/intervention, and the importance of building parent/guardian capacity  
in children's services. She concluded that the upcoming staff priorities were  
strategic planning, a community forum, expanding agency professional  
development, and increased communication.  
CSAC member Hope Woodhouse voiced her concerns to the County  
Commissioners, expressing her disappointment with the perceived lack of  
commitment. Despite an Ordinance that was supposed to increase the allocation  
from 0.125 to 0.2500 gradually, the County had reached 0.0125 only last year.  
Ms. Woodhouse stressed the importance of honoring commitments and  
expressed her hope that the Commissioners would prioritize the County's and the  
children's future, as agreed upon in 2022.  
Irene Cauwels, the Director of Operations at the Substance Awareness Center,  
spoke on behalf of Carrie Lester, the center's Executive Director. Ms. Cauwels  
highlighted the difficulty of attracting and retaining staff, citing an open position for  
a counselor since June of last year. The budget for this role was increased from  
$50,000 to $65,000, with a $3,000 bonus to attract a qualified candidate. Ms.  
Cauwels compared Indian River County with Martin County's Children's  
Services, which spends approximately $9 million yearly, while Children’s Services  
in Indian River County spends approximately $3 million. She urged the Board to  
reconsider the funding for youth programs, which had been grossly underfunded.  
CSAC Chair and Health Officer for Indian River County Miranda Swanson  
praised the committee and its sub-committees for their exceptional work over the  
last year. She stated they had developed infrastructure, trained agencies, and built  
evaluation and monitoring systems. As they embarked on the strategic plan, much  
more was to come. Ms. Swanson believed in investing in children's services and  
the community.  
Sebastian City Council and CSAC Board member Bob McPartlan expressed his  
full support for the 10% increase in funding. He emphasized how this funding  
would contribute to the development of children, making them the best they could  
be and moving them forward. Moreover, it would assist families in need, bringing  
them out of poverty and improving their quality of life.  
Vero Beach resident Anthony Brown praised the CSAC's excellent work serving  
the community. He acknowledged the incredible people on the committee and  
urged others to recognize the positive impact of the funds spent. He expressed his  
offense at personal vendettas against the process and emphasized that the  
committee was doing excellent work funding Children' Services, which could use  
more funding.  
Indian River School Board Vice Chair Peggy Jones, speaking as a resident and  
not on behalf of the School Board, emphasized the community's deep care for  
non-profit organizations. She highlighted that everyone on the committees  
including herself, was there for a specific reason - to help the County's youth and  
adults. This was what made a community unique in terms of accountability. Ms.  
Jones further underlined that the members of committees such as the CSAC have  
very high expectations and were accountable to the students. Ms. Jones urged the  
Board to prioritize the children's well-being while making decisions regarding  
CSAC. She stressed that the most critical issue was ensuring that the children  
were taken care of, which should be the guiding principle in all decision-making  
processes.  
CSAC member Robert (Bob) Schlitt recommended that the Board approve the  
10% increase in the millage rate. He believed that Indian River County had an  
opportunity to become a beacon for children's services in the state. He stated that  
staff annually reviewed every program funded and provided information to citizens  
about the services available to children and families.  
Sheriff Eric Flowers stated he felt compelled to address the crucial issue of  
government funding for youth programs. He stated whether we choose to invest in  
organizations like the Boys and Girls Club, Moonshot, or other charitable causes  
such as Healthy Start, the fact is that we will be spending money on these children  
in one way or another. If we neglect to provide them with positive outlets, they  
may end up on the streets, potentially engaging in criminal activities. Investing in  
charitable causes that benefit our youth was a better use of our tax dollars than  
having law enforcement interact with them. Sheriff Flowers stated his support for  
increasing funding for youth programs and saw it as a step in the right direction.  
The following spoke against the 10% increase:  
Vero Beach resident Susan Mehiel believed that children's charities were still  
important, although it was unclear whether their funding and resources had  
improved the problems that children face. She believed early intervention to  
improve literacy was crucial, but maintaining progress in later grades was equally  
important. Ms. Mehiel suggested that the encouragement to pursue trades instead  
of college was great. She also stated that, instead of significantly increasing  
funding, it would be good stewardship of taxpayer dollars to assess whether the  
new databases and evaluation processes were working and producing concrete  
results. It was her opinion that simply granting more money without solid evidence  
of effectiveness was not a wise approach.  
Doug Demuth, Vice President of the Taxpayer Association and CSAC member,  
presented the Taxpayer Association's (TPA) stance. He emphasized that  
providing additional funding to CSAC before it resolved its duplicate funding  
issues and accountability problems would be premature. The TPA recommended  
maintaining the current funding levels for the year. He stated that before  
considering increasing CSAC funding, the Commissioners should demand  
program-by-program requests for proposals from CSAC. This would outline  
CSAC's steps to address each program's mission statement, ensuring complete  
transparency for Indian River County taxpayers.  
The Board engaged in discussion, expressing its appreciation for the  
transformative changes implemented at CSAC. It commended the unwavering  
dedication of the CSAC committee, subcommittees, the needs assessment  
committee, the grant review committee, and staff and affirmed that CSAC had  
diligently fulfilled all their obligations. The Board underscored the importance of  
transparency and oversight, ensuring the community's trust and confidence.  
The Board agreed on the importance of investing in the children. They recognized  
that such investments could pave the way for them to become good citizens and  
active members of our communities in the future. The Board envisioned a future  
where these children could potentially become entrepreneurs, community leaders,  
teachers, firefighters, and more. They also acknowledged the long-term  
affordability of investing in charitable causes versus re-entry programs after  
release from jail or prison.  
Chairman Adams stated that it was the County's primary responsibility to ensure  
the communities' health, safety, and welfare. This underscored the importance of  
the Board's decisions and the impact they could have on the lives of residents.  
Commissioner Loar moved to approve staff's recommendation to keep funding  
for the CSAC at the current 0.1250 millage rate.  
With a motion on the floor, County Attorney Bill DeBraal sought clarification of  
the motion. Chairman Adams stated that the motion was to approve the staff’s  
recommendation to fund CSAC at the current 0.1250 millage rate.  
A motion was made by Commissioner Loar, seconded by Vice Chairman  
Flescher, to approve staff's recommendation. The motion carried by the  
following vote:  
5 -  
Aye:  
Chairman Adams, Vice Chairman Flescher, Commissioner Earman,  
Commissioner Moss, and Commissioner Loar  
G. Parks, Recreation, and Conservation  
H. Planning and Development Services  
I. Public Works  
J. Utilities Services  
13. COUNTY ATTORNEY MATTERS  
24-0316  
13.A.1.  
Authorization to proceed with foreclosures on Code enforcement cases:  
(2021110002) Frenezy, (2021030024) Richardson, (2022040148) TWLS 2025  
LLC, (2022050008) TWLS 2035 LLC, and (2023070051) Mortgage Assets  
Management, LLC  
Recommended Action:  
Staff recommends the Board authorize staff to move forward with outside counsel in  
the filing of foreclosure on the above-named code enforcement cases.  
Attachments: Staff Report  
TWLS 2025 LLC Recorded Order Imposing Fine  
TWLS 2025 Deed  
TWLS 2035 Recorded Order Imposing Fine  
TWLS 2035 deed  
Richardson, Mark Recorded Order Imposing Fine  
Richardson, Mark Deed  
Mortgage Assets Mgmt Recorded Order Imposing Fine  
Mortgage Assets Management Deed  
Frenezy Recorded Order Imposing fine  
Frenezy Deed  
Deputy County Attorney Susan Prado presented Case Number 2021110002  
(Frenezy) as a code enforcement action that began in 2021 regarding vehicle storage,  
junk vehicles, junk/trash/debris, and weeds taller than 12 inches. The respondent was  
found guilty of violating the Indian River County Code of Ordinances at an evidentiary  
hearing held on May 23, 2022. They were given 90 days to correct the violations but  
failed to do so, resulting in a fine of $250 per day. The current fine was $140,000.  
Attorney Paul O’Neal, who represented the property owner, stated the property  
owner unknowingly and unintentionally purchased a vacant lot instead of the house at  
4590 32nd Ave, Vero Beach. He stated that Mr. Tucson had saved up to buy a  
home and enlisted a real estate agent to assist him. The agent showed him the  
property at 4590, which had a lockbox with the same number. Mr. Tucson paid  
$41,000 in cash, received the keys, and began remodeling the house. Mr. O’Neal  
stated that a few years later, the property owner started to receive notices from the  
County on the violations regarding junk vehicles on his property. Initially, he ignored  
them, thinking they referred to the neighboring property. Upon investigation, it was  
discovered that he had not been deeded the house he had purchased but, instead, the  
vacant lot next to it. Attorney O'Neal inquired whether the Board or the Attorneys  
had the authority to waive some or all of the fine if the property came into full  
compliance.  
Ms. Prado advised Mr. O'Neal to resolve the code enforcement issues and plead the  
case before the Code Enforcement Board (CEB). If compliance was achieved, the  
CEB would decide whether to reduce the fine, which could be lowered to  
administrative costs plus 10%.  
The Board, staff, and Mr. O’Neal further discussed the foreclosure process and  
timeline.  
A motion was made by Vice Chairman Flescher, seconded by Chairman Adams,  
to approve staff's recommendation to proceed with foreclosure on Code  
enforcement case: 2021110002 (Frenezy). The motion carried by the following  
vote:  
5 -  
Aye:  
Chairman Adams, Vice Chairman Flescher, Commissioner Earman, Commissioner  
Moss, and Commissioner Loar  
Deputy County Attorney Susan Prado reported that Case Number 2021030024  
(Richardson) involved a code enforcement action starting in 2021 for property  
maintenance, site plan noncompliance, and unauthorized use of the property. After an  
evidentiary hearing, the respondent was found in violation of the IRC Code and given  
90 days to correct the violations. At the compliance hearing, the Code Enforcement  
Board issued a fine of $100.00 per day as the property was never brought into  
compliance. The current fine was $99,000.  
A motion was made by Commissioner Loar, seconded by Vice Chairman  
Flescher, to approve staff's recommendation to proceed with foreclosure on Code  
enforcement case: 2021030024 (Richardson). The motion carried by the following  
vote:  
5 -  
Aye:  
Chairman Adams, Vice Chairman Flescher, Commissioner Earman, Commissioner  
Moss, and Commissioner Loar  
Deputy County Attorney Susan Prado presented Case Number 2022040148  
(TWLS 2025 LLC). This code enforcement action started in 2022 with a complaint  
regarding zoning district use violation, vehicle parking/storage violation, commercial  
vehicles at residence, and home occupation violation. After an evidentiary hearing on  
June 27, 2022, the respondent was found in violation of the IRC Code and given  
30-days to correct the violations. At a compliance hearing held on July 25, 2022, the  
Code Enforcement Board determined that the respondent did not bring the property  
into compliance and issued an order for a fine in the amount of $250.00 per day. The  
order was recorded at O.R. Book 3564 and Page 1099. The property was never  
brought into compliance. The current fine was $156,500.  
A motion was made by Commissioner Loar, seconded by Vice Chairman  
Flescher, to approve staff's recommendation to proceed with foreclosure on Code  
enforcement case: 2022040148 (TWLS 2025 LLC). The motion carried by the  
following vote:  
Deputy County Attorney Susan Prado presented Case Number 2022050008  
(TWLS 2035 LLC); this code enforcement action started in 2022 with a complaint  
regarding zoning district use, vehicle parking/storage, and no building permit  
violations. After the evidentiary hearing on September 26, 2022, the respondent was  
found in violation of the IRC Code. The respondent was given 30 days to correct the  
violations that were found. At a compliance hearing held on October 24, 2022, the  
Code Enforcement Board determined that the respondent did not bring the property  
into compliance and issued an order for a fine in the amount of $250.00 per day. The  
order was recorded at O.R. Book 3582 and Page 1451. The property was never  
brought into compliance. The current fine was $133,700.  
A motion was made by Commissioner Earman, seconded by Chairman Adams,to  
approve staff's recommendation to proceed with foreclosure on Code  
enforcement case: 202205008 (TWLS 2035 LLC). The motion carried by the  
following vote:.  
5 -  
Aye:  
Chairman Adams, Vice Chairman Flescher, Commissioner Earman, Commissioner  
Moss, and Commissioner Loar  
Deputy County Attorney Susan Prado presented Case Number 2023050051  
(Mortgage Assets Management, LLC); this code enforcement action started in 2023  
with a complaint regarding property maintenance, swimming pool maintenance,  
unsecured vacant structure, and overgrown weeds. There was an evidentiary hearing  
on September 25, 2023, and the respondent was found in violation of the IRC Code.  
The respondent was given a 60-day time frame to correct the violations that were  
found. At a compliance hearing held on November 27, 2023, the Code Enforcement  
Board determined that the respondent did not bring the property into compliance and  
issued an order for a fine in the amount of $100.00 per day. The order was recorded  
at O.R. Book 3667 and Page 1312. The property was never brought into  
compliance. The current fine was $13,600  
A motion was made by Commissioner Moss, seconded by Commissioner Earman,  
to approve staff's recommendation to proceed with foreclosure on Code  
enforcement case: 2023070051 (Mortgage Assets Management, LLC). The motion  
carried by the following vote:  
5 -  
Aye:  
Chairman Adams, Vice Chairman Flescher, Commissioner Earman, Commissioner  
Moss, and Commissioner Loar  
14. COMMISSIONERS MATTERS  
A. Commissioner Susan Adams, Chairman  
B. Commissioner Joseph E. Flescher, Vice Chairman  
C. Commissioner Joseph H. Earman  
D. Commissioner Deryl Loar  
E. Commissioner Laura Moss  
15. SPECIAL DISTRICTS AND BOARDS  
A. Emergency Services District  
B. Solid Waste Disposal District  
The Board of County Commissioners reconvened as the Board of Commissioners of  
the Solid Waste Disposal District. The minutes will be approved at an upcoming Solid  
Waste Disposal District meeting.  
[Clerk's note: Item 15.B.A. was heard after Item 5.C.]  
24-0318  
15.B.A.  
Residential Paper Shredding Event on April 27, 2024  
Recommended Action:  
Solid Waste Disposal District staff recommends that the Board approve the Spring  
Residential Paper Shredding Event to be held on April 27, 2024.  
Attachments: Staff Report  
SWDD MOU with WM 2023  
Recycling Specialist Jill Brown announced the residential paper Shredding event  
would be held on Saturday, April 27, 2024, from 8:00 a.m. to12:00 p.m. at  
Southeast Secure Shredding. She stated there was no charge, but participation was  
limited to one drop off per vehicle, per household, up to 35 lbs. Ms. Brown stated  
that at the last event, on November 18, 2023, 560 cars came through, which diverted  
eight tons of paper from the landfill.  
No Action Taken or Required  
C. Environmental Control Board  
16. ADJOURNMENT  
There being no further business, the Chairman adjourned the meeting at 12:10 p.m.