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, June 3, 2025  
9:00 AM  
Commission Chambers  
1. 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  
Commissioner Susan Adams  
3. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE  
County Administrator John Titkanich  
4. ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA / EMERGENCY ITEMS  
A motion was made by Commissioner Earman, seconded by Commissioner  
Adams, to approve the Agenda as presented 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  
6. APPROVAL OF MINUTES  
25-0605  
Regular Meeting Minutes of March 25, 2025  
6.A.  
Recommended Action:  
Approve  
Attachments: 03252025 BCC Draft  
A motion was made by Vice Chairman Loar, seconded by Chairman Flescher, to  
approve the Regular Meeting Minutes of March 25, 2025, as written. The motion  
carried by the following vote:  
5 -  
Aye:  
Chairman Flescher, Vice Chairman Loar, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner  
Earman, and Commissioner Moss  
25-0606  
Regular Meeting Minutes of April 08, 2025  
6.B.  
Recommended Action:  
Approve  
Attachments: 04082025 BCC Draft  
A motion was made by Commissioner Earman, seconded by Vice Chairman Loar,  
to approve the Regular Meeting Minutes of April 08, 2025, 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  
25-0586  
7.A.  
7.B.  
7.C.  
Florida Public Service Commission Consummating Order  
PSC-2025-0163-PCO-EQ  
Recommended Action:  
Informational Item  
No Action Taken or Required  
25-0592  
Florida Public Service Commission Consummating Order  
PSC-2025-0164-PCO-EG  
Recommended Action:  
Information Only  
No Action Taken or Required  
25-0604  
Local Option Gas Tax Distribution Percentages, Amended to Correct  
Scrivener’s Error, are Reaffirmed in all Other Respects  
Recommended Action:  
Information Only  
Attachments: LOGT 2025 Chart Final - corrected fiscal year  
No Action Taken or Required  
8. PUBLIC COMMENT: AGENDA-RELATED MATTERS (EXCEPT FOR PUBLIC  
HEARINGS)  
9. CONSENT AGENDA  
A motion was made by Vice Chairman Loar, seconded by Commissioner Adams,  
to approve the Consent Agenda as presented. The motion carried by the  
following vote:  
5 -  
Aye:  
Chairman Flescher, Vice Chairman Loar, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner  
Earman, and Commissioner Moss  
25-0537  
9.A.  
Approval of Checks and Electronic Payments April 19, 2025 to April 25,  
2025  
Recommended Action:  
Approve the list of checks and electronic payments for the time period of April 19,  
2025 to April 25, 2025  
Attachments: Comptroller Division Staff Report  
Approved  
25-0548  
9.B.  
Approval of Checks and Electronic Payments April 26, 2025 to May 2,  
2025  
Recommended Action:  
Approve the list of checks and electronic payments for the time period of April 26,  
2025 to May 2, 2025  
Attachments: Comptroller Division Staff Report  
Approved  
25-0575  
Approval of Checks and Electronic Payments May 3, 2025 to May 9, 2025  
9.C.  
Recommended Action:  
Approve the list of checks and electronic payments for the time period of May 3,  
2025 to May 9, 2025  
Attachments: Comptroller Division Staff Report  
Approved  
25-0564  
9.D.  
Agreement for 2025-2026 Use of Facilities as an Early Voting Polling  
Location - Intergenerational Recreation Center  
Recommended Action:  
Staff recommends that the Board of County Commissioners accept the Agreement for  
2025-2026 RE: Use of Facilities as Polling Place and authorize the Chairman to  
execute the agreement after review by the County Attorney for legal sufficiency.  
Attachments: Facilities Agreement w/ Supervisor of Elections  
Accepted  
25-0569  
Quarterly OPEB Trust Report for Quarter Ending 03/31/2025  
9.E.  
9.F.  
9.G.  
Recommended Action:  
Accept the report  
Attachments: Investment Committee 033125 OPEB Report  
Accepted  
25-0570  
Quarterly Investment Report for Quarter Ending 3/31/2025  
Recommended Action:  
Accept the report  
Attachments: Investment Committee 03312025 Report  
Accepted  
25-0571  
Dori Slosberg Driver Education Safety Act - Driver Education Program  
Trust Fund Report - Cumulative Reporting Through 03/31/25  
Recommended Action:  
Accept the report  
Attachments: Traffic Education Program Trust Fund 033125  
Approved staff's recommendation  
25-0591  
Tourist Development Council 2025/2026 Budget Recommendations  
9.H.  
Recommended Action:  
Staff recommends that the Board of County Commissioners approve the funding  
amounts recommended by the Tourist Development Council as shown in Table 2 for  
a total allocation of $2,243,900 and authorize the County Administrator to sign the  
grant agreements for all funding recipients, subject to review and approval by the  
County Attorney.  
Attachments: TDC Award Recommendation 2025.2026  
Approved staff's recommendation  
25-0596  
Authorization to Donate Millings to Boy Scouts of America  
9.I.  
Recommended Action:  
Staff recommends the Board authorize the donation of seven loads of millings to Boy  
Scouts of America for it's Camp Oklawaha facility.  
Approved staff's recommendation  
25-0581  
Quarterly Tourist Development Tax Report for Quarter Ending 03/31/2025  
9.J.  
Recommended Action:  
Accept the report  
Attachments: Tourist Development Tax Report  
Accepted  
25-0590  
9.K.  
Work Order with Masteller & Moler for Continuing Professional Services for  
Sandridge Clubhouse  
Recommended Action:  
Staff recommends approval of Work Order No. 7 for Masteller & Moler, Inc,  
authorizing the above mentioned professional services as outlined in the attached  
Scope of Services (Exhibit A) and requests the Board authorize the Chairman to  
execute Work Order No. 7 on their behalf for the total sum amount of $98,000.00.  
Attachments: WO 7 Sandridge Club Exp  
Approved staff's recommendation  
25-0585  
Approval for Purchase of Fire Rescue Apparatus  
9.L.  
Recommended Action:  
Staff recommends the Board authorize the Purchasing Division to issue a Purchase  
Order in the amount of $1,498,450.  
Attachments: Proposal  
Approved staff's recommendation  
25-0598  
9.M.  
Authorization to Apply for Florida Emergency Communications Board 911  
State Grant  
Recommended Action:  
Staff recommend that the Board authorize staff to apply for the Florida  
Emergency Communications Board (FECB) 911 State Grant to facilitate  
improvements to the 911 Call Taking system and application authorize  
the Chairman to execute and authorize the Director of Emergency  
Services to sign any documents necessary with the Florida E9-1-1 State  
Grant to execute the work, after review and approval by the County  
attorney as to form a legal sufficiency.  
Attachments: Grant Application Call Taking Map  
Approved staff's recommendation  
25-0587  
Clean Vessel Act Grant Application Request  
9.N.  
Recommended Action:  
Staff recommends the Board of County Commissioners authorize staff to apply for the  
Clean Vessel Act Grant for the purchase of a pumpout boat to meet an action listed in  
the Lagoon Management Plan. If awarded, staff recommends the Board of County  
Commissioners to authorize the County Administrator to execute the grant upon  
concurrence by the County Attorney.  
Attachments: Letter from Clean Water Coalition  
CVA Grant Application  
Letter from Indian River Land Trust  
Approved staff's recommendation  
25-0584  
9.O.  
Award of Bid No. 2025047 for Indian River Drive Drainage Improvements  
(IRC-2423)  
Recommended Action:  
Staff recommends the project be awarded to Sunshine Land Design, Inc. in the  
amount of $155,845.04. 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: Sample Agreement  
Approved staff's recommendation  
25-0595  
9.P.  
Memorandum of Understanding between Indian River County and  
Sebastian Inlet District for Coordination of Supplemental Downdrift  
Nourishment and Related Coastal Activities  
Recommended Action:  
Staff recommends approval of the attached Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for  
Coordination of Supplemental Downdrift Nourishment and Related Coastal Activities  
between the County and the Sebastian Inlet District. Staff also recommends that the  
Chair execute the agreement on behalf of the County upon concurrence by the County  
Attorney.  
Attachments: Staff Report  
MOU Sebastian Inlet District 2025  
MOU Sebastian Inlet District 2013  
Approved staff's recommendation  
10. CONSTITUTIONAL OFFICERS and GOVERNMENTAL AGENCIES  
11. PUBLIC ITEMS  
A. PUBLIC HEARINGS  
PROOF OF PUBLICATION FOR THESE HEARINGS ARE ON FILE IN THE  
OFFICE OF THE CLERK TO THE BOARD.  
25-0602  
St. Lucie County Housing Finance Authority Bonds Hearing  
11.A.1.  
Recommended Action:  
The County Attorney recommends that the Board conduct a public hearing, take  
comments from interested persons, and consider approving the resolution for Vero  
Beach Leased Housing Associates IV, LLLP to issue Multifamily Housing Revenue  
Bonds in an amount up to $28,000,000.  
Attachments: St. Lucie County Housing Finance Authority Bond Resolution  
Affidavit of Publication  
Assistant County Attorney Chris Hicks stated that at the May 06, 2025, BCC  
meeting, the Board was asked to approve an Area of Operation Agreement with the  
St. Lucie Housing Finance Authority to move forward with a low-income housing  
project. He reported that the project had progressed through the St. Lucie County  
Housing Finance Authority, which had approved the bond. The Board was asked to  
finalize the process, allowing the issuance of the bonds and enabling the project to  
proceed.  
The Chairman opened the public hearing. There being no speakers, the Chairman  
closed the hearing.  
Vice Chairman Loar noted that he had a detailed discussion with County  
Administrator John Titkanich. They confirmed that it aligned with the Indian River  
County Affordable Housing Authority's policies and that Indian River County would  
have no financial responsibility in this matter.  
Approved staff's recommendation and Resolution 2025-023, approving the  
issuance by the Housing Finance Authority of St. Lucie County, Florida of its not  
to exceed $28,000,000 Multifamily Housing Revenue Bonds (Orchard Grove  
Apartments), series [to be determined] for the benefit of Vero Beach Leased  
Housing Associates IV, LLLP, or its affiliate, to provide funds to finance or  
refinance a multifamily residential rental project; and providing an effective  
date.  
25-0608  
11.A.2.  
Sage Cottage Land Company, LLC.'s Request to Rezone Approximately  
+/-13.2 Acres from RS-6, Single-Family Residential District to RM-6,  
Multiple-Family Residential District (200602001-97158)  
Recommended Action:  
Based on the analysis, staff recommends that the Board of County Commissioners  
approve this request to rezone the subject +/- 13.2 acres from RS-6 to RM-6.  
Attachments: Existing Future Land Use Map  
Zoning District Comparison Table  
Application  
Affidavit  
Chairman Flescher introduced the parties to the proceeding as Indian River County  
and Sage Cottage Land Company, LLC (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 Chairman  
opened the public hearing, and the Deputy Clerk administered the Oath to all persons  
who wished to speak at the hearing.  
Chief of Long Range Planning Patrick Murphy presented a request to rezone a  
23.5-acre parcel in south-central Indian River County from RS-6, Single-Family  
Residential, to RM-6, Multiple-Family Residential. The property, located on the south  
side of 9th Street SW, was split-zoned, with the northern 10.3 acres already  
designated RM-6 and the southern 13.2 acres remaining RS-6. The rezoning aimed to  
facilitate the development of townhomes in the southern portion, creating consistent  
zoning throughout the area. The site was undeveloped and bordered by 9th Street  
SW to the north and the Grace Woods subdivision to the southwest. Designated as  
L-2 (Low-Density Residential-2), the area allowed for up to 6 units per acre and  
included both single-family and multi-family uses. The proposed RM-6 zoning was in  
alignment with the existing Future Land Use (FLU) Designation and did not seek to  
increase density, ensuring cohesive development under unified zoning. Future  
development would comply with applicable Land Development Regulations (LDRs).  
The presentation displayed zoning maps and analyzed the request to ensure that it was  
consistent with FLU Designations. Staff concluded it was consistent and compatible  
with the surrounding area and recommended approval. Mr. Murphy noted that he  
had received calls from nearby residents regarding the property, all of whom  
expressed satisfaction with their general inquiries, and he reported no objections to  
the rezoning proposal.  
Neither the Board nor the Applicant had questions of staff.  
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 Ordinance 2025-008, amending the zoning  
Ordinance and the accompanying Zoning Map for approximately 13.2 acres  
located on the south side of 9th Street SW, Approximately 0.57 of a mile west of  
7th Road SW and approximately 0.35 of a mile east of 20th Avenue SW, from  
RS-6 Single-Family Residential District, to RM-6, Multiple-Family Residential  
District; and providing codification, severability, and effective date. 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  
12. COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR MATTERS  
13. DEPARTMENTAL MATTERS  
A. Building and Facilities Services  
B. Community Services  
C. Emergency Services  
D. Human Resources  
[Clerk's Note: Item 13.D.1. was heard after Item 14.C.]  
25-0600  
Group Insurance Recommendations for Plan Year 2025/2026  
13.D.1.  
Recommended Action:  
Staff  
recommends  
and  
respectfully  
requests  
the  
Board  
of  
County  
Commissioners approve staff’s recommendation for the plan year beginning  
October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2026 to include amending our ASO  
services with BCBS providing for increased wellness funds, rate hold for two (2)  
additional years, reduced access fees, and performance guarantees; transition  
Pharmacy Benefits to Rightway and remove coverage for GLP-1 weight loss  
benefits (continue covering for diabetes) mitigating  
a
rate increase; renewing  
Dental ASO with Ameritas to include modifying coverage for annual cleanings  
from once every six months to 2 times per year; moving COBRA and FSA  
services to LivelyMe; ending Kannact Diabetes Management Program effective  
9/30/2025 and transitioning care to Marathon Health Center; extending our  
agreement with Lantern for elective surgery; continuing life, disability, EAP,  
vision, critical illness, and accident benefits with no increase in premiums;  
selecting Rightway to provide navigation and advocacy benefits in place of  
Health Advocate; adding voluntary employee paid group Hospital Indemnity,  
Identify Theft and Legal coverage as recommended by staff; and authorizing  
staff to take the necessary actions in support of implementing the approved  
actions and authorizing the Board Chair to execute necessary documents  
related to the approved benefits after review and approval by the County  
Attorney for legal sufficiency.  
Attachments: Indian River County BOCC Amendment #1  
BCBS Contract Comparison  
Medical & RX Actuarial Funding Projections FY25-26  
Pharmacy Marketing Results  
RX Executive Summary of Comparative Value  
Pharmacy Disruption Analysis  
RX Executive Summary of Comparative Value Removing Weight Loss  
GLP-1  
FSA & COBRA Comparison  
Rightway Overview_IRC  
Lantern Renewal Amendment  
Hospital Indemnity Program Summary  
Voluntary Benefits  
Human Resources Director Suzanne Boyll referred to staff’s memo dated May 24,  
2025, and presented the recommendations for employee group insurance for the  
2025/2026 plan year, along with representatives from Lockton Companies, Account  
Executive Rachael Friedman, and Pharmacy Specialist Tressa Chretien. Key points  
included an increase in Blue Cross Blue Shield's Administrative Services fee, a  
transition to Rightway Pharmacy for Pharmacy Benefits Management (PBM)  
expected to yield significant savings, and no rate increases for Dental, Vision, or  
Life/Disability insurance.  
Significant trends in medical and RX claims were noted, particularly the rising costs  
associated with GLP-1 medications, which contributed notably to the claims trend.  
The Board discussed the financial strain these medications placed on the insurance  
trust, with expenditures reaching $930,000 over five months. The Board considered  
the potential exclusion of these medications from coverage, which would affect 241  
members relying on them for weight management. Concerns were raised about the  
long-term implications of removing coverage and the balance between financial costs  
and health benefits.  
Two options were proposed: implementing a higher co-payment for GLP-1  
medications or maintaining current benefits while monitoring the situation. The need for  
effective communication and oversight during the transition was emphasized.  
Sebastian resident Nathan McCollum, expressed serious concerns about Blue Cross,  
particularly regarding their customer service and the difficulty in contacting them. He  
noted that many others faced similar challenges but hesitate to complain. Mr.  
McCollum criticized the contract language on performance measures and called for  
accountability through a performance bond. He highlighted potential HIPAA  
violations, as the contract allows Blue Cross to share medical information with  
employers and subcontractors. Sharing his frustrating experience, he described delays  
in responses and issues with the misclassification of his medical problems, questioning  
the reliability of Blue Cross's independent reviewers and emphasizing the need for  
service improvements.  
A motion was made by Commissioner Adams, seconded by Commissioner  
Earman, amending Administrative Services Only (ASO) with BCBS providing for  
increased wellness funds, rate hold for two (2) additional years, reduced access  
fees, and performance guarantees. The motion carried by the following vote:  
5 -  
Aye:  
Aye:  
Aye:  
Chairman Flescher, Vice Chairman Loar, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner  
Earman, and Commissioner Moss  
A motion was made by Commissioner Adams, seconded by Commissioner Moss,  
to transition Pharmacy Benefits to Rightway and continue coverage for GLP-1  
weight loss benefits for one year with HR providing a monthly report on claims.  
The motion carried by the following vote:  
5 -  
Chairman Flescher, Vice Chairman Loar, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner  
Earman, and Commissioner Moss  
A motion was made by Commissioner Adams, seconded by Chairman Flescher,  
renewing Dental ASO with Ameritas to include modifying coverage for annual  
cleanings from once every six months to two (2) times per year. The motion  
carried by the following vote:  
5 -  
Chairman Flescher, Vice Chairman Loar, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner  
Earman, and Commissioner Moss  
A motion was made by Commissioner Adams, seconded by Chairman Flescher,  
moving COBRA and FSA services to LivelyMe. The motion carried by the  
following vote:  
5 -  
Aye:  
Chairman Flescher, Vice Chairman Loar, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner  
Earman, and Commissioner Moss  
A motion was made by Commissioner Adams, seconded by Vice Chairman Loar,  
ending Kannact Diabetes Management Program effective 9/30/2025 and  
transitioning care to Marathon Health Center. The motion carried by the  
following vote:  
5 -  
Aye:  
Chairman Flescher, Vice Chairman Loar, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner  
Earman, and Commissioner Moss  
A motion was made by Commissioner Adams, seconded by Commissioner  
Earman, extending the agreement with Lantern for elective surgery. The motion  
carried by the following vote:  
5 -  
Aye:  
Chairman Flescher, Vice Chairman Loar, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner  
Earman, and Commissioner Moss  
A motion was made by Commissioner Adams, seconded by Commissioner  
Earman, continuing Life, Disability, EAP, Vision, Critical Illness, and Accident  
Benefits with no increase in premiums. The motion carried by the following  
vote:  
5 -  
Aye:  
Chairman Flescher, Vice Chairman Loar, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner  
Earman, and Commissioner Moss  
A motion was made by Commissioner Adams, seconded by Commissioner  
Earman, selecting Rightway to provide navigation and advocacy benefits in  
place of Health Advocate. The motion carried by the following vote:  
5 -  
Aye:  
Chairman Flescher, Vice Chairman Loar, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner  
Earman, and Commissioner Moss  
A motion was made by Commissioner Adams, seconded by Commissioner  
Earman, adding voluntary employee paid group Hospital Indemnity, Identify  
Theft and Legal coverage as recommended by staff. The motion carried by the  
following vote:  
5 -  
Aye:  
Chairman Flescher, Vice Chairman Loar, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner  
Earman, and Commissioner Moss  
A motion was made by Commissioner Adams, seconded by Commissioner Moss,  
authorizing staff to take the necessary actions in support of implementing the  
approved actions and authorizing the Board Chair to execute necessary  
documents related to the approved benefits after review and approval by the  
County Attorney for legal sufficiency. The motion carried by the following vote:  
5 -  
Aye:  
Chairman Flescher, Vice Chairman Loar, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner  
Earman, and Commissioner Moss  
E. Information Technology  
F. Natural Resources  
G. Office of Management and Budget  
H. Parks, Recreation, and Conservation  
I. Planning and Development Services  
J. Public Works  
K. Sandridge Golf Club  
L. Utilities Services  
14. COUNTY ATTORNEY MATTERS  
25-0589  
Children Services Advisory Committee Appointment  
14.A.  
Recommended Action:  
The County Attorney recommends that the Board review the applicants’ applications  
and determine whether to appoint him/her to fill the unexpired term for the “Member  
At Large” position to the Children Services Advisory Committee.  
Attachments: Application - HawkinsLoren (csac)  
Resume - HawkinsLoren  
Application - JankeLalitaA (csac)  
Resume - JankeLalita  
Application - MarshMichaelC (csac)  
Resume - MarshMichaelC  
Application - Samuels-Schulz (csac)  
Application - Seymour J. Eric (csac)  
Resume - Seymour J. Eric  
Application - ToperzerRachelL (csac)  
Resume - ToperzerRachelL  
County Attorney Jennifer Shuler stated that the Children’s Services Advisory  
Committee (CSAC) had a recent resignation of one of its At-Large Members. The  
term for this position would expire in January 2029. She noted that the vacancy had  
been advertised on the County's website and Channel 27 for over 30 days. She  
referred to staff’s memo dated May 19, 2025, for the list of qualified applicants for  
this position.  
There was no further discussion on the Item.  
A motion was made by Chairman Flescher, seconded by Commissioner Moss, to  
appoint Eric J. Seymour to the Children Services Advisory Committee (CSAC).  
The motion carried by the following vote:  
5 -  
Aye:  
Chairman Flescher, Vice Chairman Loar, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner  
Earman, and Commissioner Moss  
25-0597  
Calcutta Docks - Country Club Pointe  
14.B.  
Recommended Action:  
Request that the Board of County Commissioners provide staff with direction  
regarding the docks.  
Deputy County Attorney Susan Prado addressed the property issue regarding the  
Calcutta Docks at Country Club Pointe, noting that this topic was first raised on  
November 19, 2024. Her findings indicated that the property provided no public  
benefit, which was required by Florida law for public property use. She presented  
several options for the County: 1) Renting dock slips at fair market value to generate  
revenue; 2) Abandoning the Right-of-Way to a Homeowners' Association (HOA)  
through public notice and hearings; 3) Abandoning the Right-of-Way to adjacent  
property owners, requiring similar public processes; 4) Selling the land at fair market  
value, with responsibilities shifting to new owners; and 5) Keeping existing licenses,  
despite potential constitutional issues related to public benefit.  
Chairman Flescher inquired about the property's leasing timeline, revealing a history of  
dock licensing since the 1990s, with varying lease rates. It was noted that  
leaseholders mistakenly believed they owned their docks, though property deeds did  
not confer such rights.  
Commissioner Earman suggested either abandoning the property or selling the slips,  
emphasizing that the County should not manage a marina. Vice Chairman Loar  
reminded all that the discussion was public and no decisions would be made, stressing  
the need to investigate the parcels further as they lacked separate parcel numbers.  
Ms. Prado confirmed efforts to assign specific addresses to recognize the properties  
as taxable parcels, highlighting the situation's complexity. Overall, the discussion  
focused on navigating legal implications, potential revenue generation, and the  
importance of public benefit in decision-making.  
Attorney Barry Segal represented residents and dock users at Country Club Point,  
shedding light on the area's unique legal situation concerning the docks. He pointed  
out that the area was developed in 1957 and echoed Commissioner Earman's  
sentiment that current regulations have evolved significantly since then, making County  
involvement unnecessary. Mr. Segal argued against the County's management of the  
docks, urging the County to drop any claims since homeowners have invested in them  
without any support from the County. He highlighted that homes with dock access  
tend to have higher values, ultimately benefiting the County’s property tax revenue. To  
streamline management, Mr. Segal suggested forming a Dock Owners' Association to  
take on the responsibility of overseeing the docks.  
Attorney Bruce Barkett, speaking as a neighbor rather than in his professional  
capacity, agreed with Mr. Segal's points and offered to assist in forming a Dock  
Owners' Association. He believed this was the best solution for managing local dock  
responsibilities. Mr. Barkett emphasized that turning the area into a public marina  
would likely create more problems, such as parking issues. He supported having an  
association composed of local homeowners to address those challenges effectively.  
Charles King and Bob Webster, representatives of the Riverboat Club Association,  
raised concerns about the dock situation in their community, which consisted of 20  
homes. Mr. King highlighted the significance of local property taxes for County  
finances and mentioned the issue of an uncashed lease payment check. Mr. Webster  
added that their homes were valued at approximately $800,000 due to their access to  
docks. He pointed out that the community has fulfilled its lease obligations for 25  
years and has managed maintenance independently, without relying on County  
resources. Both representatives urged the County to consider their community's  
specific circumstances in any decisions regarding dock leases.  
Chairman Flescher acknowledged their concerns but clarified that their community’s  
location was not currently under consideration for discussion. He expressed  
appreciation for the organization and its effective management.  
Ms. Prado stated that she had engaged with the President of the Riverboat Club,  
recently discovering their presence and noting that their lease terms were similar to  
those at the Calcutta Docks. She had previously informed the Riverboat Club  
regarding compliance requirements and planned to follow up with further direction.  
She noted that the Riverboat Club had paid the dock license fee but had been advised  
to wait until the outcome of this meeting.  
Vice Chairman Loar emphasized that it was a public discussion with no immediate  
voting or policy decisions. He questioned the timing of the current issues regarding  
specific parcels, noting they lack separate parcel numbers, which complicates their  
potential qualification for the tax roll. Ms. Prado confirmed that efforts were underway  
to assign specific addresses to these parcels.  
County Attorney Jennifer Shuler stated that the Board's guidance was necessary to  
move forward with lease sign-ups. The Commissioners expressed concerns about  
potential legal challenges if the docks were sold or transferred without clear  
documentation of public benefit.  
Commissioner Moss raised the issue of securing financial benefits from the property,  
questioning the adequacy of current rents. Ms. Prado noted past decisions to increase  
fees for new leases to $2,000 from $100 due to insufficient cost coverage.  
Attorney Shuler pointed out the complexities around lease agreements, suggesting an  
annual lease model might be more effective. Commissioner Moss also asked about  
selling the docks. Ms. Prado explained that Florida law required a competitive  
bidding process for sales, emphasizing the need to demonstrate public benefit for any  
minimal or nominal sales. She advised against simply auctioning properties due to  
existing investments by individuals based on their licenses, recommending that any  
plans consider these factors carefully.  
The Chairman called a recess at 10:49 a.m., and reconvened the meeting at 11:00  
a.m., with all members present.  
Residents expressed their concerns about the complexities of dock leases and  
transferring responsibilities to an HOA. A resident and dock lessee highlighted issues  
regarding lease prioritization related to a home he purchased and sought a permanent  
resolution. Charlotte Bireley, a resident without a dock, proposed forming a dock  
association to address waiting list concerns and current leaseholder issues.  
Chairman Flescher emphasized the need to reassess the property's legal standing and  
suggested creating an HOA for better management. Ms. Prado raised uncertainties  
about the HOA and the concept of gifting land back to residents, referencing a 2004  
legal opinion on County funds. She indicated that abandoning the land might be a  
more straightforward solution to effectively address the situation. Ms. Prado was  
open to further research if this route was favored.  
Commissioner Moss strongly opposed abandoning the parcel, arguing that it would  
result in lost revenue and highlighted the importance of correcting past mistakes,  
particularly regarding the docks. In contrast, Commissioner Earman supported the  
recommendation to abandon the property, believing that selling it could lead to more  
complications.  
Commissioner Adams addressed community concerns about forming an HOA and  
emphasized the need for solutions that benefit the entire community while maintaining  
road access. She cautioned against prioritizing specific groups, such as dock owners,  
over the broader community's needs and stressed the importance of a fair  
decision-making process.  
Chairman Flescher sought clarification on the County's financial involvement,  
discovering that the County had not paid any money for the property but had taken  
over management when the previous HOA could no longer handle the situation. He  
acknowledged the difficulty in establishing a public price for the property and  
emphasized the need for careful consideration rather than complete abandonment.  
The discussion centered around the operation of an HOA in Florida under State  
Statute 336.125, emphasizing that HOAs must represent all homes in a platted area,  
not just dock owners. Ms. Prado highlighted the legal requirements for abandoning a  
right-of-way involving the entire subdivision. There was also mention of the County's  
ability to abandon roads and rights-of-way dedicated to residential subdivisions,  
contingent on specific conditions.  
Commissioner Earman suggested a consensus for the County Attorney to explore  
various options regarding the right-of-way: 1) abandonment to an HOA; 2) outright  
abandonment; and 3) selling the property while offering current dock holders a first  
right of refusal. Commissioner Adams requested that this information be prepared in a  
memo format for the Commissioners, including an outline of how partitioning the  
right-of-way would work.  
Vice Chairman Loar preferred assigning all responsibilities to a qualified entity, ideally  
an HOA, noting that this would simplify the process. He mentioned that the HOA  
could pay the County annually and assume liability, which would also benefit the  
County by adding the association to the ad valorem tax rolls.  
The discussion revolved around dock access issues in Country Club Point, sparked  
by resident John Wright's concerns about dock maintenance and liability. He  
highlighted the need for residents to take over maintenance responsibilities and  
proposed selling the small strip of grass to simplify dock issues. William Wood also  
voiced his concerns, stating that his dock was part of his property according to his  
warranty deed, and he was unaware of recent changes to agreements that altered his  
rights, including a new lease fee and a limited permit term.  
Ms. Prado clarified that deed records showed no ownership of the docks for any  
leaseholders, suggesting previous indications of ownership were incorrect. Jeff Cusson  
raised concerns about potential property sales to outsiders affecting access, proposing  
the creation of an HOA to manage the docks. Resident John Fleger emphasized the  
need for fairness for long-term dock owners and the historical significance of dock  
access within the community.  
Chairman Flescher acknowledged the public's input and stated that the Deputy  
County Attorney would conduct further research to explore options while ensuring  
community feedback was considered before making final decisions.  
The Board instructed staff to investigate the abandonment of the property and  
explore the possibility of offering it to a Homeowners Association (HOA).  
25-0599  
14.C.  
Authorization to proceed with foreclosures on Code enforcement cases  
2024040044 (Snyder) and 2024040045 (TGS Innovative Solutions)  
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: Snyder, Thomas Recorded Order Imposing Fine  
Snyder, Thomas Deed  
Recorded Order Imposing Fine (TGIS)  
TGIS Deed  
Deputy County Attorney Susan Prado brought two properties for foreclosure  
consideration that had failed to comply with Code Enforcement Regulations. The first  
property, owned by Thomas Snyder, located at 3225 46th Street, Vero Beach, FL,  
Case # 2024040044, had accumulated fines of $31,800 due to overgrown grass and  
weeds. The second property, owned by TGS Innovative Solutions, located at 3245  
46th Street, Vero Beach, FL, Case # 2024040045, faced similar issues and had not  
complied with Code Enforcement Regulations. Ms. Prado confirmed that proper  
notice had been given to the property owners, but neither had appeared at the Code  
Enforcement hearings.  
A motion was made by Commissioner Earman, seconded by Commissioner  
Adams, to approve staff's recommendation on Code Enforcement Case #  
2024040044 The motion carried by the following vote:  
5 -  
Aye:  
Chairman Flescher, Vice Chairman Loar, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner  
Earman, and Commissioner Moss  
A motion was made by Commissioner Earman, seconded by Commissioner  
Adams, to approve staff's recommendation on Code Enforcement Case #  
2024040045. The motion carried by the following vote:  
5 -  
Aye:  
Chairman Flescher, Vice Chairman Loar, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner  
Earman, and Commissioner Moss  
The Chairman called a recess at 12:16 p.m., and reconvened the meeting at 12:25  
p.m, with all members present.  
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  
Rockridge resident Anthony Germano raised concerns about ongoing drainage issues,  
specifically related to the maintenance of the NL4 Canal and the Third Avenue Canal.  
He highlighted the County's failure to fulfill previous commitments and presented  
documentation supporting his claims about flooding problems on 12 streets caused by  
inadequate drainage.  
Commissioner Moss responded by stating that the County had no legal obligation  
regarding these canals, advising Mr. Germano to confirm this with the County  
Attorney. Mr. Germano shared his frustrations about the difficulty in getting  
maintenance for the Third Avenue Canal.  
County Attorney Jennifer Shuler reported that the canals were originally built during  
the Rockridge subdivision's establishment and had never been accepted by the  
County for maintenance or ownership. As a result, the County had no legal  
responsibility for them. Chairman Flescher and Commissioner Adams confirmed that  
the canals belonged to the Rockridge subdivision and that any necessary work would  
need approval from the St. Johns Water River Management District or Indian River  
Farms Water Control District.  
Mr. Germano questioned why residents couldn't directly address issues with their  
canals, to which County Administrator John Titkanich explained that any changes  
might affect other water bodies. Mr. Germano was encouraged to contact the County  
Attorney's office to arrange a meeting for further clarification and to seek a resolution  
to the drainage issues.  
No Action Taken or Required  
18. ADJOURNMENT  
There being no further business the Chairman adjourned the meeting at 3:01 p.m.