Indian River County  
Administration Complex  
1801 27th Street  
Indian River County, Florida  
Vero Beach, Florida 32960  
indianriver.gov  
Meeting Minutes - Final  
Board of County Commissioners  
Joseph Flescher, District 2, Chairman  
Deryl Loar, District 4, Vice Chairman  
Susan Adams, District 1  
Joseph H. Earman, District 3  
Laura Moss, District 5  
John A. Titkanich, Jr., County Administrator  
Jennifer W. Shuler, County Attorney  
Ryan L. Butler, Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller  
Tuesday, November 19, 2024  
9:00 AM  
Commission Chambers  
CALL TO ORDER  
5 -  
Present:  
Chairman Joseph Flescher  
Vice Chairman Deryl Loar  
Commissioner Susan Adams  
Commissioner Joe Earman  
Commissioner Laura Moss  
2.A. A MOMENT OF SILENT REFLECTION FOR FIRST RESPONDERS AND MEMBERS OF  
THE ARMED FORCES  
2.B. INVOCATION  
Minister Jack White, Gifford Church of Christ  
3. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE  
Commissioner Deryl Loar  
3.A. OATH OF OFFICE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS  
The Honorable Nicole Menz, County Judge, Nineteenth Judicial Circuit Court of  
Florida, swore in each of the re-elected County Commissioners: Susan Adams,  
Joseph H. Earman, and Laura Moss.  
3.B. ELECTION OF BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSION CHAIRMAN  
County Attorney Jennifer Shuler opened the floor for nominations for Chairman.  
Commissioner Moss nominated Commissioner Adams in the interest of continuity as  
the County planned its Centennial celebration.  
Motion failed for lack of a second.  
Commissioner Earman nominated Commissioner Flescher, and was seconded by  
Commissioner Loar.  
The County Attorney called the vote to close the floor for further nominations.  
A motion was made by Commissioner Earman, seconded by Commissioner Loar,  
to close the floor for further nominations. The motion carried by the following  
vote:  
4 -  
Aye:  
Nay:  
Chairman Flescher, Vice Chairman Loar, Commissioner Adams, and Commissioner  
Earman  
1 - Commissioner Moss  
A motion was made by Commissioner Earman, seconded by Commissioner Loar,  
to elect Commissioner Flescher as the Board of County Commission Chairman.  
The motion carried by the following vote:  
4 -  
Aye:  
Nay:  
Chairman Flescher, Vice Chairman Loar, Commissioner Adams, and Commissioner  
Earman  
1 - Commissioner Moss  
3.C. ELECTION OF BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSION VICE CHAIRMAN  
County Attorney Jennifer Shuler opened the floor for nominations for Vice Chairman.  
Commissioner Adams nominated Commissioner Moss, and was seconded by  
Commissioner Moss.  
Commissioner Flescher nominated Commissioner Loar, and was seconded by  
Commissioner Loar.  
The County Attorney called the vote to close the floor for further nominations.  
A motion was made by Commissioner Adams, seconded by Commissioner  
Flescher, to close the floor for further nominations. The motion carried by the  
following vote:  
5 -  
Aye:  
Chairman Flescher, Vice Chairman Loar, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner  
Earman, and Commissioner Moss  
County Attorney Shuler called for a vote on the nomination of Commissioner Moss  
for the position of Vice Chairman.  
A motion was made by Commissioner Adams, seconded by Commissioner Moss,  
to elect Commissioner Moss to the position of Vice Chairman. The motion failed  
by the following vote:  
2 - Commissioner Adams, and Commissioner Moss  
Aye:  
3 - Chairman Flescher, Vice Chairman Loar, and Commissioner Earman  
Nay:  
County Attorney Shuler called for a vote on the nomination of Commissioner Loar for  
the position of Vice Chairman.  
A motion was made by Commissioner Flescher, seconded by Commissioner Loar,  
to elect Commissioner Loar as the Board of County Commission Vice Chairman.  
The motion carried by the following vote:  
4 -  
Aye:  
Nay:  
Chairman Flescher, Vice Chairman Loar, Commissioner Adams, and Commissioner  
Earman  
1 - Commissioner Moss  
4. ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA / EMERGENCY ITEMS  
MOVED: Items 9.A., 9.B., 9.C., and 9.D. to be heard following Item 4.  
Item 4.A. to be moved and renumbered as Item 10.A.3., Schwerin rezoning request  
ADDED:  
Item 15.B.1. Hurricane Milton debris collection  
A motion was made by Vice Chairman Loar, seconded by Commissioner Adams,  
to approve the Agenda as amended. The motion carried by the following vote:  
5 -  
Aye:  
Chairman Flescher, Vice Chairman Loar, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner  
Earman, and Commissioner Moss  
5. PROCLAMATIONS and PRESENTATIONS  
24-0944  
5.A.  
Presentation Update by Major League Baseball on Events Coming to the Jackie  
Robinson Training Center  
Recommended Action:  
Present.  
Assistant County Administrator Mike Zito introduced the presentation of ongoing  
initiatives at the Jackie Robinson Training Complex (JRTC), which saw renovations  
and improvements to enhance its role as a sports tourism destination.  
Vice President of the JRTC Rachelle Madrigal used a PowerPoint presentation to  
inform of the Complex's improvements and future plans. Facility improvements  
included: an indoor training structure (Building 42); renovations to Holman Stadium;  
lighting improvements; the opening of Building 5, a multi-purpose structure with  
batting cages, concessions, and meetings spaces; installation of artificial turf on  
upgraded training fields; villa renovations; upgraded batting cages; and renovations to  
the Administration Building. Ms. Madrigal also previewed upgrades planned for the  
coming year. Events on the calendar included an expanded Andre Dawson Classic,  
Big 10 Baseball, a return of the Jackie Robinson Celebration Game, and a variety of  
youth-focused community events.  
Administrator Zito closed by thanking the Board for their support of the partnership  
with Major League Baseball to revive the JRTC.  
Presented  
6. APPROVAL OF MINUTES  
24-0914  
6.A.  
Regular Meeting of September 10, 2024  
Approve  
Recommended Action:  
Attachments: 09-10-2024 BCC Draft  
A motion was made by Commissioner Adams, seconded by Vice Chairman Loar,  
to approve the minutes of the BCC regular meeting of September 10, 2024 as  
written. The motion carried by the following vote:  
5 -  
Aye:  
Chairman Flescher, Vice Chairman Loar, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner  
Earman, and Commissioner Moss  
7. INFORMATION ITEMS FROM STAFF OR COMMISSIONERS NOT REQUIRING BOARD  
ACTION  
24-0913  
7.A.  
Purchase Order Authorization  
No action is requested.  
Recommended Action:  
Attachments: Staff Report  
No Action Taken or Required  
24-0932  
7.B.  
Event Calendar  
Recommended Action:  
No Action Required  
Attachments: Staff Report  
Chairman Flescher made mention of the number of events and holiday experiences  
available this season.  
No Action Taken or Required  
24-0936  
7.C.  
Pelican Island Audubon Society Tree and Plant Recovery Workshop with Panel  
Presentations  
Recommended Action:  
Informational Only.  
Attachments: Tree and Plant Recovery Workshop with Panel Presentations  
Chairman Flescher noted this workshop also offered free trees, and was an  
opportunity to replace lost vegetation from the recent hurricanes. Commissioner Moss  
added the panel was open to everyone in the County, and expressed concern for the  
trees.  
No Action Taken or Required  
8. CONSENT AGENDA  
A motion was made by Commissioner Adams, seconded by Commissioner  
Earman, to approve the Consent Agenda as amended, pulling Item 8.A. for  
discussion. The motion carried by the following vote:  
5 -  
Aye:  
Chairman Flescher, Vice Chairman Loar, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner  
Earman, and Commissioner Moss  
24-0899  
8.A.  
Award of RFP 2024059 for an Economic Development Strategic Action Plan  
(EDSAP)  
Recommended Action:  
Staff recommends the Board approve the final ranking of firms, award the RFP to  
TIP Strategies, Inc., approve the agreement, and authorize the Chairman to execute it,  
after review and approval by the County Attorney as to form and legal sufficiency,  
after the receipt of the required Anti-Human Trafficking Affidavit, and after approval  
of the required insurance by the Risk Manager.  
Attachments: Staff Report  
Sample Agreement  
Exhibit 1 - TIP Pricing  
Exhibit 2 - TIP Schedule  
Vice Chairman Loar opened discussion by requesting County Administrator John  
Titkanich to discuss the relationship of the Economic Development Strategic Action  
Plan (EDSAP) with the recently studied Urban Service Boundary (USB).  
Mr. Titkanich noted that the last study done was outdated and a new study was  
recommended to streamline the County's economic development goals. He explained  
that the study would evaluate the County's economy to narrow which industries the  
County should focus on attracting, as well as the workforce and infrastructure needed  
to realize that targeted growth. This tied into the USB as the County had an interest in  
growing its industrial base while also maintaining control of future growth. Discussion  
continued with details of hiring an in-house staffer to coordinate the economic study  
results with the Chamber of Commerce's efforts, and coordinate incentives such as  
jobs grant programs.  
Commissioner Adams weighed in with support for the study expressed by the  
Economic Development Committee (EDC). She also received clarification that the  
study would take nine (9) months from the time the contract was signed. The  
Commissioner added that the 2014 EDSAP study failed to bring items before the  
Board for implementation, and stated she would like to see the EDC to do so going  
forward.  
Vice Chairman Loar requested regular updates on the EDSAP's progress over the  
nine (9) months, and expressed excitement over including the results with the other  
planning the County was undertaking.  
Chairman Flescher received confirmation from Chris Balter, Planning and  
Development Services Director, that the cost of the study was capped at $150,000.  
Vice Chairman Loar expressed a desire to have these and similar studies conducted  
in-house once additional staffing was hired.  
A motion was made by Vice Chairman Loar, 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  
24-0912  
8.B.  
Review of the Affordable Housing Advisory Committee 2024 Incentives Review and  
Recommendation Report  
Recommended Action:  
Staff and the Affordable Housing Advisory Committee recommend that the Board of  
County Commissioners approve the 2024 AHAC Incentives Review Report and  
direct staff to submit a copy of the report to the FHFC for review by December 31,  
2024.  
Attachments: Staff Report  
Resolution  
Draft Report  
Approved staff's recommendation and Resolution 2024-068, approving the Indian  
River County Affordable Housing Advisory Committee (AHAC) 2024 report and  
directing staff to submit the AHAC report to Florida Housing Finance Corporation  
(FHFC).  
24-0916  
8.C.  
Final Payment, Release of Retainage and Change Order No. 1, Trans-Florida  
Railway Trail from Fellsmere to West of I-95 (IRC-2115)  
Recommended Action:  
Staff recommends approval of Change Order No. 1 and payment of Contractor’s  
Application Payment No. 2115-9 to Timothy Rose Contracting, Inc. in the amount of  
$63,772.36 for final payment and release of retainage.  
Attachments: Staff Report  
Contractor's Application for Payment 2115-9  
Change Order No. 1  
Approved staff's recommendation  
24-0918  
8.D.  
FDOT Small County Outreach Program (SCOP) Agreement and Resolution  
Authorizing the Chairman’s Signature for Construction of Indian River Boulevard from  
SR-5/US-1/Federal Highway to 17th Street IRC-1817, FM No. 444269-1-54-01  
Recommended Action:  
Staff recommends the Board of County Commissioners approve the Small County  
Outreach Program (SCOP) Agreement and Resolution and authorize the Chairman to  
execute the same.  
Attachments: Staff Report  
Indian River County Grant Form  
Authorizing Resolution  
FDOT Small County Outreach Program (SCOP) Agreement  
Approved staff's recommendation and Resolution 2024-069, authorizing the  
Chairman’s execution of Small County Outreach Program (SCOP) Agreement  
with the Florida Department of Transportation for Construction of Indian River  
Boulevard from SR-5/US-1/Federal Highway to 17th Street.  
24-0923  
8.E.  
Award of Bid No. 2025008 43rd Avenue Bicycle and Pedestrian Improvements 14th  
Lane and 15th Place Resurfacing  
Recommended Action:  
Staff recommends the project be awarded to Timothy Rose Contracting, Inc. in the  
amount of $388,803.64. 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  
Sample Agreement  
Approved staff's recommendation  
24-0927  
8.F.  
Approval for Purchase of Fire Rescue Apparatus  
Recommended Action:  
Staff recommends the Board authorize the Purchasing Division to issue a Purchase  
Order in the amount of $937,890.  
Attachments: Staff Report  
Sutphen Quote  
Approved staff's recommendation  
24-0930  
8.G.  
Septic Tank Encroachment Agreement Approval for 425 11th Court  
Recommended Action:  
Staff recommends the Board of County Commissioners approve the Septic Tank  
Encroachment Agreement for 425 11th Court and authorize the Chair to execute the  
agreement after review and approval as to form and legal sufficiency by the County  
Attorney.  
Attachments: Staff Report  
Septic Tank Encroachment Agreement  
Exhibit A  
Approved staff's recommendation  
24-0931  
8.H.  
Florida Communities Trust Guaranty for Indian River Land Trust - Tony Robinson  
Extension Property  
Recommended Action:  
Staff respectfully requests that the Board of County Commissioners consider the  
request made by the Land Trust and, if approved, authorize the Chairman to execute  
the Management Guaranty letter after review and approval by the County Attorney.  
Attachments: Staff Report  
11-5-24_IRLT_Management Guaranty Letter  
Toni Robinson Ext Map  
Approved staff's recommendation  
The Chairman called for a recess at 10:28 a.m., and reconvened the meeting at 10:42  
a.m. with all members present.  
9. CONSTITUTIONAL OFFICERS and GOVERNMENTAL AGENCIES  
[Clerk Note: Items under this section were heard following Item 4, and the  
meeting resumed with Item 5.A.]  
24-0907  
9.A.  
Supervisor of Elections Annual Fiscal Report  
Attachments: BOCC End of Year Budget Report  
Supervisor of Elections Leslie Swan recounted the additional number of elections her  
office faced this past fiscal year which included a presidential election. She thanked  
Commissioners Flescher and Loar for their service on the Canvassing Board before  
detailing the new tools her office implemented for an efficient voting process. Ms.  
Swan returned $31,880 to the County.  
Lalita Janke, who volunteered as a poll worker, praised Ms. Swan, her staff, and the  
Commissioners who worked together for a problem-free election season.  
A motion was made by Vice Chairman Loar, seconded by Commissioner Adams,  
to accept the report. The motion carried by the following vote:  
5 -  
Aye:  
Chairman Flescher, Vice Chairman Loar, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner  
Earman, and Commissioner Moss  
24-0908  
9.B.  
Clerk of Circuit Court & Comptroller Ryan L. Butler: Annual Fiscal Report  
Attachments: Clerk of Court Annual Fiscal Report  
Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller Ryan Butler thanked the Board for their  
support and presented a check in the amount of $508,709.30, which represented the  
excess revenue in fees from the Recording and Passport offices. Mr. Butler explained  
that his office did not receive taxpayer funds for passport and official records  
operations, and relied on fees generated from these departments. He also credited a  
13 percent reduction in expenses for the larger-than-normal refund.  
A motion was made by Vice Chairman Loar, seconded by Commissioner Adams,  
to accept the report. The motion carried by the following vote:  
5 -  
Aye:  
Chairman Flescher, Vice Chairman Loar, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner  
Earman, and Commissioner Moss  
24-0909  
9.C.  
Sheriff Eric Flowers Annual Fiscal Report  
Attachments: BOCC End of Year Budget Report  
Sheriff Eric Flowers gave thanks for the Board's support of the Sheriff's Office and  
presented a check in the amount of $149,833.05.  
A motion was made by Vice Chairman Loar, seconded by Commissioner Adams,  
to accept the report. The motion carried by the following vote:  
5 -  
Aye:  
Chairman Flescher, Vice Chairman Loar, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner  
Earman, and Commissioner Moss  
24-0935  
9.D.  
Sheriff Eric Flowers: Present Altumint Presentation  
Discuss and Approve.  
Recommended Action:  
Attachments: Altumint Presentation  
Sheriff Eric Flowers introduced a proposal from Altumint, a private company that  
would install automated camera systems in school zones to discourage speeding; the  
initiative followed recently approved legislation. The Sheriff stated his goal was to  
free-up deputies in light of a manpower crunch, and stated there was no cost to the  
County.  
A representative from Altumint made a presentation to the Board explaining their  
system which would issue civil citations to speeders in school zones. They described  
Altumint's responsibility to install cameras, collect and distribute fines, and coordinate  
with the Sheriff and School District for oversight. It was noted that an Ordinance  
would need to be passed allowing the issuance of citations. The representative then  
presented results of traffic studies done in local school zones to show the problem of  
speeders in school zones.  
The Board entered into discussion with the vendor and Sheriff Flowers regarding how  
Altumint got paid, the distribution of the fines collected, the conversion of civil  
citations to tickets for the Clerk to process, and the possible need for the County to  
provide a hearing officer to administer appeals. Sheriff Flowers provided statistics on  
the reductions in speeders that would be achieved, the benefits to community safety,  
and the flexibility in staffing the system afforded.  
The Board expressed skepticism regarding the hidden costs to the County, the  
reduction of officers in school zones, and the backlash from the community regarding  
the camera surveillance.  
No Action Taken or Required  
10. PUBLIC ITEMS  
A. PUBLIC HEARINGS  
PROOF OF PUBLICATION FOR THESE HEARINGS ARE ON FILE IN  
THE OFFICE OF THE CLERK TO THE BOARD.  
24-0917  
10.A.1.  
Public Hearing for Ordinance Amending Code Indian River County Code  
Sections 102.01(1), and 102.04  
Recommended Action:  
The County Attorney recommends that the Board conduct a public hearing on the  
proposed ordinance, take comment from interested persons, and  
approve the Ordinance amending Indian River County Code  
Sections 102.01(1), and 102.04.  
Attachments: Staff report  
IRC Business Impact Estimate IRC rev Chap 102  
Ordinance Amending IRC Code 102.01  
County Attorney Jennifer Shuler opened discussion noting this item was a  
follow-up to the decision made at the Board's November 5, 2024 meeting to  
allow an amendment to the County Code regarding Meetings and Procedures,  
and Order of Business. The changes would allow additional opportunities for the  
public to address the Commissioners at the Board meetings.  
The Chairman opened the public hearing. There being no comments, the  
Chairman closed the public hearing.  
A motion was made by Vice Chairman Loar, seconded by Commissioner  
Moss, to approve staff's recommendation and adopt Ordinance 2024-010,  
amending Indian River County Code Chapter 102, Section 102.01 “Board of  
County Commissioners Meetings and Procedures” to modify the Board  
meeting times and amending Section 102.04 “Order of Business”, to add new  
“Departmental Matters” and to modify public comment procedures. The  
motion carried by the following vote:  
5 -  
Aye:  
Chairman Flescher, Vice Chairman Loar, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner  
Earman, and Commissioner Moss  
24-0922  
10.A.2.  
Public Hearing - Amended and Restated Developers Agreement Between  
Providence Point Vero Beach, LLC and Indian River County  
Recommended Action:  
Staff recommends the Board instruct staff to advertise and bring this back for the  
second public hearing as is required by Florida Statute at the next Board meeting  
in December.  
Attachments: Staff Report  
Aerial Photo  
Proposed Amended and Restated Developers Agreement with  
Providence Point Vero Beach, LLC  
Copy of Original Developers Agreement with Providence Point Vero  
Beach, LLC  
Affidavit of Publication - Amending Developers Agreement - Providence  
Pointe  
Deputy County Attorney Susan Prado referred to staff's memo dated November  
6, 2024, for details of the amended Developer's Agreement between the County  
and Providence Point. Ms. Prado made mention the original agreement had been  
approved by the Board on November 18, 2014, and needed to be updated to  
reflect changes which have taken place since then, and to have the agreement  
brought into compliance with current statutory requirements. She added that this  
was the first of two (2) required public hearings, and a vote would be called at the  
second public hearing in December of 2024.  
The Chairman opened the public hearing. There being no comments, the  
Chairman closed the public hearing.  
Attorney Prado requested the Board approve the recommended return of the  
item for the second public hearing on December 3, 2024.  
A motion was made by Vice Chairman Loar, seconded by Commissioner  
Earman, 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  
24-0830  
10.A.3.  
Ordinance of Indian River County, Florida Amending the Zoning Ordinance, and  
the Accompanying Zoning Map for Approximately ±7.97 Acres from CG,  
General Commercial District to MED, Medical District (99070136-96957)  
[Quasi-Judicial]  
Recommended Action:  
Based on the analysis, staff and the Planning and Zoning Commission recommend  
that the Board of County Commissioners approve this request to rezone the  
subject property from CG to MED.  
Attachments: Staff Report  
Zoning Map  
Future Land Use Map  
Rezoning Application  
Draft Ordinance  
11-13-24 Request for Continuance  
2025-01-08 Request for Continuance  
Chairman Flescher introduced the Item into the record, and noted that the  
Applicant requested a continuance to the January 14, 2025 Board meeting due to  
unforeseen circumstances.  
A motion was made by Vice Chairman Loar, seconded by Commissioner  
Adams, to continue the public hearing at the January 14, 2025 BCC meeting.  
The motion carried by the following vote:  
5 -  
Aye:  
Chairman Flescher, Vice Chairman Loar, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner  
Earman, and Commissioner Moss  
B. PUBLIC DISCUSSION ITEMS  
24-0942  
10.B.1.  
Request to Speak from President Lance Lunceford, Taxpayers Association  
President regarding Fiscal Responsibility by County  
Recommended Action:  
No action required.  
Attachments: Public Discussion Request - Lance Lunceford  
Speaker not present  
24-0946  
10.B.2.  
Request to Speak from Bill Rigby on Federal and State Funding Procurement  
Laws  
Recommended Action:  
Attachments: Nov 19_Request-to-Speak_Rigby  
Mr. Rigby began his discussion by asserting his right to speak before the Board  
without interruption or retaliation. Before speaking, he requested clarification of  
the rules regarding speaking before the Board, specifically the allotment of three  
(3) minutes to state his concerns. Mr. Rigby stated he still had not received all the  
information he requested in order to pursue his questions regarding bids from  
minority-owned companies for Solid Waste Disposal District (SWDD) contracts.  
He said he would be pursuing a different issue going forward.  
Chairman Flescher asked whether Mr. Rigby had made formal or informal  
requests for information which had not been satisfied. Mr. Rigby clarified he had  
received documents from SWDD, but they did not contain the information he  
sought. Chairman Flescher advised Mr. Rigby to return to the County Attorney's  
office to clarify his requests.  
County Attorney Jennifer Shuler confirmed Mr. Rigby had made another request  
for information that morning, and that her office would be happy to work together  
to get him the information he sought. Mr. Rigby then asked the Chairman what to  
do if the County did not have the information he was looking for. The Chairman  
noted that the County had a legal requirement to provide information upon  
request. Mr. Rigby expressed his opinion his rights had been violated by the  
procedures which he felt were being used to deny him the information he sought.  
The Chairman reiterated that the County was following the letter of the law to  
provide any information it had in a timely fashion.  
No Action Taken or Required  
C. PUBLIC NOTICE ITEMS  
24-0925  
10.C.1.  
Public Notice of Public Hearing for December 3, 2024, to Consider Ordinance  
Imposing An Additional Cost of Tourist Development Taxes  
Attachments: Staff Report  
County Attorney Jennifer Shuler read the notice into the record.  
Read into the record  
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  
G. Parks, Recreation, and Conservation  
H. Planning and Development Services  
24-0879  
12.H.1.  
Gifford Neighborhood Plan (GNP) Status Update  
Recommended Action:  
Staff recommends that the Board of County Commissioners consider the  
provided Gifford Neighborhood Plan status update and direct staff to proceed  
with the following initiatives: 1. Each department and responsible party shall  
review all recurring and ongoing action items, evaluate the necessity of each item,  
determine the appropriate frequency for their occurrence (monthly, quarterly, or  
annually), and promptly resume them as appropriate. 2. Staff shall continue to  
work on completing the large-scale action items that have not yet been  
completed. 3. Staff shall initiate the process for an updated GNP to ensure  
alignment with current community needs and priorities. The update will include: A.  
All remaining large-scale projects and recurring/ongoing action items that require  
attention. B. New issues and goals identified through community engagement,  
ensuring that the updated plan is comprehensive and future-oriented. C.  
Collaborating closely with the Progressive Civic League of Gifford (PCLG),  
residents, and other stakeholders to identify emerging needs and opportunities in  
the Gifford area.  
Attachments: Staff Report  
GNP Main 2024 Imp. Matrix sorted by date-2024  
Chris Balter, Planning and Development Services Director, utilized a PowerPoint  
presentation to deliver a status update of the Gifford Neighborhood Plan (GNP),  
which was originally approved in 2002 and updated in 2014. Mr. Balter provided  
background information before providing updates and future plans for  
recurring/ongoing actions and large-scale action items; a detailed proposal for a  
new GNP update was also presented.  
The Board entered into discussion with staff regarding the unfinished large-scale  
action items: Action 7.3, 45th Street Sidewalk Extension, was scheduled to begin  
in 2025/26 by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT); Action 7.4,  
Sidewalks on 41st and 49th Streets, was scheduled for funding application  
through the MPO's Transportation Alternatives Program (TRIP); Actions 8.5 and  
8.6, 32nd and 35th Avenue Improvements, had not moved forward due to lack  
of right-of-way (ROW) agreements.  
Chairman Flescher suggested staff should take responsibility for obtaining ROW  
agreements rather than the Gifford Progressive League (League), to overcome  
past hurdles. The Board noted that infrastructure projects were notoriously slow,  
and mentioned enhancements realized through FDOT funding. County  
Administrator John Titkanich added that the revised GNP would need to identify  
funding plans in advance to avoid delays.  
The following people addressed the Board:  
Joe Idlette expressed disappointment on the County's lack of follow-through and  
delays. He agreed the League should not be tasked with obtaining right-of-way,  
and closed with a call for effort on the County's part to complete the existing plan  
before creating a new one.  
Freddie Woolfork suggested the County should offer compensation for  
right-of-way acquisition, as had been done with the widening of 66th Avenue. He  
stated the widening of 45th Street and installation of sidewalks was of utmost  
importance to the community.  
Anthony Brown spoke of the community's disillusionment that the GNP's actions  
were not completed after 22 years. He questioned whether the current Board was  
obligated to complete plans approved by previous administrations. Mr. Brown  
also took issue with infrastructure improvements made in Gifford to serve the  
County, but stopped short of Gifford's residential streets.  
Ervin Cartwright expressed frustration for the lack of accountability to  
follow-through with promises made, and prioritization of improvements to  
neighboring communities over Gifford and Wabasso.  
Barbara Lipton revisited the question of the current Board's obligation to honor  
agreements made by prior Boards. County Attorney Jennifer Shuler advised that  
technically one Board could not bind a future Board to appropriate money.  
However the GNP had been adopted and never revoked, so it would be treated  
as policy.  
Chairman Flescher vowed to ensure action would be taken, and the Board  
agreed that the original GNP needed to be completed rather than incorporated  
into a new plan. Mr. Balter stated there were two (2) outstanding action items:  
8.5 and 8.6, 32nd and 35th Avenue Improvements. Lengthy discussion ensued  
regarding paying to obtain ROW, funding sources, and the details of road  
construction.  
Administrator Titkanich noted there were no designs or cost estimates to build the  
roads being discussed. Public Works Director Addie Javed advised his  
department could put together a rough design to obtain ballpark construction  
estimates, and advised his department would need a month to produce that  
report.  
In response to Commissioner Earman, Mr. Brown stated the need to create a  
road on 32nd Avenue was the priority. MPO Director Brian Freeman also  
addressed the Board with details of Action 7.4, Sidewalks on 41st and 49th  
Streets.  
A motion was made by Vice Chairman Loar, seconded by Commissioner  
Earman, to direct staff to return in January 2025 with an estimated cost and  
timing on Items 8.5 and 8.6 from the Gifford Neighborhood Plan, as well as an  
update on needed right-of-way acquisition. The motion carried by the  
following vote:  
5 -  
Aye:  
Chairman Flescher, Vice Chairman Loar, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner  
Earman, and Commissioner Moss  
I. Public Works  
The Chairman called for a recess at 12:34 p.m., and reconvened the meeting at 12:44  
p.m. with all members present.  
J. Utilities Services  
24-0924  
12.J.1.  
Adoption of Indian River County Department of Utility Services Water,  
Wastewater & Reuse Water Utility Construction Standards, December 2024,  
IRCDUS Project ID 00.23.543  
Recommended Action:  
Staff recommends that the Indian River County Board of County Commissioners  
approve the adoption of the Indian River County Department of Utility Services  
Water, Wastewater, and Reuse Water Utility Construction Standards -  
December 2024, as presented.  
Attachments: Staff Report  
Attachment A – List of Revisions  
Utility Construction Standards  
Manager of Capital Projects Howard Richards presented the updated  
Department of Utility Services Water, Wastewater, and Reuse Water Utility  
Construction Standards (Standards) update to the Board. He noted the  
Standards were important to stay in conformance with regulatory agencies, as  
well as conforming to industry guidelines; Bowman consultants assisted with the  
updates.  
Mr. Richards summarized the hundreds of changes made to standards for  
above-ground lift stations with electrical ground-in, CAD templates, editorial  
changes, consistencies, and clarifications. He referred to an attachment to staff's  
memo dated November 4, 2025 for additional details. As required, a draft of the  
Standards was posted online for 30 days, during which time no comments had  
been received from the public.  
A motion was made by Vice Chairman Loar, 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  
13. COUNTY ATTORNEY MATTERS  
24-0921  
13.A.1.  
Calcutta Drive Docks Guidance on Potential Changes  
Recommended Action:  
The County Attorney’s Office seeks instruction from the Indian River County Board  
of County Commissioners on how to move forward with each of the above questions.  
Attachments: Staff Report  
Form License Agreements  
Deputy County Attorney Susan Prado referred to staff's memo dated November 6,  
2024, which provided history of the docks along Calcutta Drive in the Country Club  
Pointe neighborhood. Ms. Prado informed that the dock agreements had been  
updated in 2022, but several issues had arisen which staff sought guidance on. The  
main questions related to dock inspections (whether annual or in response to  
complaints), how to assess fees for inspections, which department would be  
responsible for them, procedures to obtain permits for electrical or irrigation services,  
and how to handle docks in disrepair. The issues were complicated by the lack of  
addresses for individual docks, and docks which were grandfathered-in under  
previous rules and fees. Any changes would apply to revised-lease holders and upon  
the sale of a dock.  
Discussion ensued between the Board and Ms. Prado regarding solutions to staff's  
questions: should the docks be assigned individual addresses; which department  
should be in charge of performing the required inspections; which department would  
need to sign off on the installation of electricity and/or water service; which  
department would review the required 5-year inspection report submitted by dock  
owners; should homeowners be allowed to own more than one dock.  
Ms. Prado agreed to research options in the code to provide due process to  
condemn docks in disrepair. She advised that the old licenses had no term limits,  
which complicated the Attorney's Office ability to make global changes for all the  
docks. Commissioner Earman made a motion which addressed staff's questions.  
County Administrator John Titkanich agreed to discuss the assignment with the head  
of the Building Department.  
A motion was made by Commissioner Earman, seconded by Commissioner  
Adams, directing staff to: 1. Assign a unique address to each boat slip using  
geocodes and numbers; 2. Direct the Building Department to handle inspections  
that arise from complaints about a dock; 3. Direct the Building Department to see  
and sign off on the installation of electric and water service to a dock; 4. Direct  
the Building Department to review the inspection report required every five (5)  
years from dock owners; and 5. Disallow ownership of more than one dock by  
any homeowner. Staff was directed to return before the Board with the revised  
lease agreement. The motion carried by the following vote:  
5 -  
Aye:  
Chairman Flescher, Vice Chairman Loar, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner  
Earman, and Commissioner Moss  
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.  
15.B.1. 24-0959  
Debris Removal - Hurricane Milton  
Solid Waste Disposal District (SWDD) Managing Director Himanshu Mehta  
requested the Board's direction in resolving a situation which arose regarding  
debris collection in the aftermath of Hurricane Milton. He informed that the  
County's debris contractor, Ceres Environmental (Ceres), had completed half of  
the debris removal but faced delays as subcontractors left to work for higher  
Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) rates; the County paid $9.81 per  
cubic yard versus FDOT's $14.98 per cubic yard.  
Mr. Mehta advised that Ceres could finish the job at the contracted rate, but it  
would extend the timeline to late December. He offered three options for the  
Board's consideration: 1. Continue at the current rates and accept the revised  
timing; 2. Increase the rate to match FDOT's at a cost of $131,591 with the same  
October completion date. The Board was advised that FEMA may not reimburse  
the County for this expense.; 3. Issue a separate emergency purchase order to  
Ceres in the amount of $131,591 using emergency general funds to incentivize  
on-time debris collection; this option was not eligible for reimbursement.  
Mr. Mehta stated neighboring counties faced similar dilemmas, and most paid  
additional incentives to get the debris cleared in a timely fashion. The Board was  
wary of setting precedent by changing contracted rates midway through the job,  
and expressed they felt they were being placed in a difficult situation. Ultimately,  
the Board preferred not to delay debris removal in the public's interest, and  
supported staff's recommendation of Option 3.  
A motion was made by Commissioner Earman, seconded by Chairman  
Flescher, to approve Option 3 of staff's recommendation and issue an  
emergency purchase order in the amount of $131,591 to Ceres Environmental.  
The motion carried by the following vote:  
5 -  
Aye:  
Chairman Flescher, Vice Chairman Loar, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner  
Earman, and Commissioner Moss  
C. Environmental Control Board  
16. ADJOURNMENT  
There being no further business, the Chairman adjourned the meeting at 1:35 p.m.