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  
Deryl Loar, District 4, Chairman  
Laura Moss, District 5, Vice Chairman  
Susan Adams, District 1  
Joseph Flescher, District 2  
Joseph H. Earman, District 3  
John A. Titkanich, Jr., County Administrator  
Jennifer W. Shuler, County Attorney  
Ryan L. Butler, Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller  
Tuesday, November 18, 2025  
9:00 AM  
Commission Chambers  
1. CALL TO ORDER  
5 -  
Present:  
Chairman Deryl Loar  
Vice Chairman Laura Moss  
Commissioner Susan Adams  
Commissioner Joseph Flescher  
Commissioner Joe Earman  
2.A. A MOMENT OF SILENT REFLECTION FOR FIRST RESPONDERS AND MEMBERS OF  
THE ARMED FORCES  
2.B. INVOCATION  
Deacon Wilfred Hart, Friendship Missionary Baptist Church  
3. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE  
Jennifer Shuler, County Attorney  
3.A. ELECTION OF BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSION CHAIRMAN  
Chairman Flescher reflected on his year as Chairman before passing the gavel to the  
County Attorney who would be Acting Chair.  
County Attorney Jenifer Shuler opened the floor for nominations for Chairman.  
Commissioner Earman nominated Commissioner Loar for Chairman, and was  
seconded by Commissioner Flescher.  
The County Attorney called the vote to close the floor for further nominations.  
A motion was made by Commissioner Flescher, seconded by Commissioner  
Earman, to close the floor for further nominations. The motion carried by the  
following vote:  
5 -  
Aye:  
Chairman Loar, Vice Chairman Moss, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner  
Flescher, and Commissioner Earman  
A motion was made by Commissioner Earman, seconded by Commissioner  
Flescher, to elect Commissioner Loar as the Chairman of the Board of County  
Commissioners. The motion carried by the following vote:  
5 -  
Aye:  
Chairman Loar, Vice Chairman Moss, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner  
Flescher, and Commissioner Earman  
3.B. ELECTION OF BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSION VICE CHAIRMAN  
County Attorney Jenifer Shuler opened the floor for nominations for Vice Chairman.  
Commissioner Adams nominated Commissioner Moss, and was seconded by  
Commissioner Earman.  
The County Attorney called the vote to close the floor for further nominations.  
A motion was made by Commissioner Adams, seconded by Vice Chairman Moss,  
to close the floor for further nominations. The motion carried by the following  
vote:  
5 -  
Aye:  
Chairman Loar, Vice Chairman Moss, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner  
Flescher, and Commissioner Earman  
A motion was made by Commissioner Adams, seconded by Commissioner  
Earman, to elect Commissioner Moss as Vice Chairman of the Board of County  
Commissioners. The motion carried by the following vote:  
5 -  
Aye:  
Chairman Loar, Vice Chairman Moss, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner  
Flescher, and Commissioner Earman  
4. ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA / EMERGENCY ITEMS  
Item 10.D. was moved to follow Item 10.F.  
A motion was made by Vice Chairman Moss, seconded by Commissioner  
Flescher, to approve the Agenda as amended. The motion carried by the  
following vote:  
5 -  
Aye:  
Chairman Loar, Vice Chairman Moss, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner  
Flescher, and Commissioner Earman  
5. PROCLAMATIONS and PRESENTATIONS  
25-1034  
5.A.  
Presentation of Proclamation Honoring the Vero Beach Art Club & Judy  
Burgarella for the Mural Creation & Restoration  
Recommended Action:  
Recommend read & present.  
Attachments: Indian River County Mural Proclamation  
Judy Burgarella was present to accept the Proclamation honoring the Vero Beach Art  
Club. The Commissioners expressed appreciation for the multi-panel mural on display  
in the Administration Building which depicted Indian River County's natural and  
cultural highlights Ms. Burgarella recounted how the mural had been damaged during  
Hurricane Milton, and said she was pleased the artwork was in a safe place for all to  
enjoy.  
Read and presented by Commissioner Flescher  
25-1065  
5.B.  
Presentation of Proclamation Honoring the Life & Legacy of Mr. Joe Idlette,  
Jr.  
Recommended Action:  
Recommend read & present.  
Attachments: 11.18.25 Joe Idlette II  
Joe Idlette III accepted the Proclamation on behalf of his father, Joe Idlette, Jr., in  
honor of his legacy to the Indian River County School system. Mr. Idlette III thanked  
the Board for acknowledging his father's impact and contributions to the community.  
Read and Presented by Commissioner Earman  
25-1075  
Presentation of Proclamation for GIS Day as November 19, 2025  
5.C.  
Recommended Action:  
Read & Present.  
Attachments: Proclamation  
GIS Manager Rachelle Benken discussed the myriad ways data from Geographic  
Information Systems (GIS) enhanced people's lives, and spoke of the future role of  
the evolving technology. Ms. Benken introduced her team and closed with the GIS  
saying, "For where there's a where, there's a way."  
Read and presented by Chairman Loar  
25-1058  
Indian River Community Foundation 2025 Community Needs Update  
5.D.  
Recommended Action:  
Present.  
Jeff Pickering, President and CEO of the Community Foundation, used a slide deck  
to present the Community Foundation's Indian River County Community Needs  
Assessment 2025. He began with key insights from the last report in 2020 and listed  
the surveys and data used to compile the report. While the majority of residents  
believed the County was headed in the right direction, there were areas of concern:  
healthcare access and affordability, affordable childcare and education, low wages  
and limited transportation, housing affordability, and public safety. Outlier  
observations included the importance of local maternity care, satisfaction with public  
schools, and a higher number of homeless students.  
The report continued with promising and concerning trends in the areas of health,  
education, economic opportunities and employment, and housing. In the area of  
health, there were increases in healthy habits contrasted with high-risk pregnancies,  
mental health struggles, and high food insecurity. Promising education trends were  
seen in high enrollment and graduation rates. However, almost half of students were  
unprepared for kindergarten, and 32 percent of public school students were  
chronically absent. Economic trends showed a reported rise in median income to  
$72,000. Of concern were higher poverty levels, low wages, economically  
disadvantaged students, and relatively high unemployment. Lastly, housing trends  
included a lower homeless count and reduced domestic violence. Concerning trends  
in the high number of homeless students, increased evictions, housing-burdened  
residents, and senior isolation were seen.  
Recommendations to improve the community included increased collaboration,  
targeted government resources, and a balance between public and private resources;  
the County had an unusually high level of household giving. Mr. Pickering closed with  
a call to action for civic engagement.  
Presented  
6. APPROVAL OF MINUTES  
25-1096  
Regular Meeting of September 09, 2025  
6.A.  
Recommended Action:  
Approve  
Attachments: 09092025BCC_Draft  
A motion was made by Commissioner Flescher, seconded by Commissioner  
Adams, to approve the Regular Meeting Minutes of September 9, 2025. The  
motion carried by the following vote:  
5 -  
Aye:  
Chairman Loar, Vice Chairman Moss, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner  
Flescher, and Commissioner Earman  
7. INFORMATION ITEMS FROM STAFF OR COMMISSIONERS NOT REQUIRING BOARD  
ACTION  
8. PUBLIC COMMENT: AGENDA-RELATED MATTERS (EXCEPT FOR PUBLIC  
HEARINGS)  
9. CONSENT AGENDA  
A motion was made by Commissioner Flescher, seconded by Commissioner  
Adams, to approve the Consent Agenda as amended, pulling Item 9.I. for  
discussion. The motion carried by the following vote:  
5 -  
Aye:  
Chairman Loar, Vice Chairman Moss, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner  
Flescher, and Commissioner Earman  
25-1053  
9.A.  
Review of the Affordable Housing Advisory Committee 2025 Incentives  
Review and Recommendation Report  
Recommended Action:  
Staff and the Affordable Housing Advisory Committee recommend that the Board of  
County Commissioners approve the 2025 AHAC Incentives Review Report and  
direct staff to submit a copy of the report to the FHFC for review by December 31,  
2025.  
Attachments: AHAC 2025 Draft Report  
RESOLUTION for 2025 AHAC Report  
Approved staff's recommendation and Resolution 2025-071, approving the Indian  
River County Affordable Housing Advisory Committee (AHAC) 2025 Report and  
directing staff to submit the AHAC Report to Florida Housing Finance Corporation  
(FHFC).  
25-1064  
9.B.  
Approval of a Public Transportation Grant Agreement (PTGA) with the  
Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) for a Section 5311 Grant  
Recommended Action:  
Staff recommends that the Board of County Commissioners approve the Public  
Transportation Grant Agreement and adopt the resolution authorizing the Chairman to  
sign the agreement.  
ATTACHMENTS  
1. Authorizing Resolution for the Execution of a Public Transportation Grant  
Agreement  
2. FDOT Public Transportation Grant Agreement  
Attachments: Authorizing Resolution  
FDOT Public Transportation Grant Agreement  
Approved staff's recommendation and Resolution 2025-072, authorizing the  
execution of a Public Transportation Grant Agreement with the Florida  
Department of Transportation.  
25-1066  
9.C.  
Travel Authorization for the County Attorney for Fiscal Year  
2025/2026  
Recommended Action:  
Approve the County Attorney’s travel needs for Fiscal Year 2025/2026  
Approved staff's recommendation  
25-1070  
Partial Release of Drainage Easement - 13620 Indian River Drive  
9.D.  
Recommended Action:  
Staff recommends that the Board, through adoption of the proposed resolution and  
Partial Release of Easement, approve the subject release of the County-dedicated  
easement at 13620 Indian Rier Drive.  
Attachments: Partial Release of Easement  
Resolution for Partial Release of Easement  
Exhibit A Sketch and Legal  
View of Released Easement Area  
Grant of Easement  
Approved staff's recommendation and Resolution 2025-073, releasing an  
easement (or portion thereof) on 13620 Indian River Drive.  
25-1074  
9.E.  
Change Order 1 - Work Order No. 2018029-13 - APTIM, Sector 5  
Hurricanes Ian and Nicole Dune Restoration Pre-Construction and  
Engineering Services  
Recommended Action:  
Staff recommends the BCC authorize Change Order No. 1 to Work Order No.  
2018029-13 in the total lump sum amount of $53,375.46. Additionally, staff  
recommends the BCC authorize the Chairman to execute Change Order No. 1 to  
Work Order No. 2018029-13 on behalf of the BCC after legal sufficiency approval  
by the County Attorney.  
Attachments: Change Order No. 1 Work Order No. 2018029-13 Agreement  
Approved staff's recommendation  
25-1078  
9.F.  
Purchase of Traffic Operations Division replacement maintenance sign  
truck for on-call purposes  
Recommended Action:  
Staff recommends the Board approve the funding request for the purchase of a  
replacement truck from Alan Jay Fleet Sales in the amount of $71,531, for the Public  
Works Department Traffic Operations Division, which includes options totaling  
$25,285.  
Attachments: Allan Jay Quote_  
Approved staff's recommendation  
25-1080  
9.G.  
Notice of Application for Indian River Lagoon National Estuary Program  
Grants for Various Projects  
Recommended Action:  
Staff requests authorization to submit grant application packages to the IRLNEP for  
applicable projects as determined by the respective Departments. Staff also requests  
the Board authorize the respective Department Director the ability to sign the grant  
applications after review by the County Attorney's office for legal sufficiency, if  
required, with the understanding that any award of grants would come before the  
Board for final approval.  
Approved staff's recommendation  
25-1081  
9.H.  
Award of Bid 2025067 for Gifford Water Tank Structural Rehabilitation  
Phase 2, IRCDUS Project ID 13.23.538  
Recommended Action:  
Staff recommends the Board award Bid 2025067 to Viking Painting, LLC for Gifford  
Water Tank Structural Rehabilitation Phase 2 for $398,250, approve the Agreement,  
and authorize the Chairman to sign the agreement after it has been approved by the  
County Attorney as to form and legal sufficiency, and after receipt and approval of the  
required public construction bond. Staff also request authorization to hold $60,000 in  
project reserve for potential changes due to scope variability or owner directed  
changes for a total budget of $458,250. So long as there are no increases to the  
budget dollar amount approved, upon adequate completion of the work, staff is  
directed to make final payment and release any retainage to Viking Painting, LLC.  
Attachments: Sample Agreement  
Approved staff's recommendation  
25-1083  
9.I.  
AtkinsRéalis Work Order No. 10 for Sebastian Septic to Sewer  
Conversion Feasibility Study, IRCDUS Project ID 21.26.502  
Recommended Action:  
Staff recommends that the Indian River County Board of County Commissioners  
approve Work Order 10 to AtkinsRéalis to provide professional services for the  
Sebastian Septic to Sewer Conversion Feasibility Study project, Project ID  
21.26.502, in the amount of $288,132, and authorize the Chair to execute the same.  
So long as there are no changes in the dollar amount under the amount approved,  
upon adequate completion of the work set forth in the work order, staff is directed to  
make final payments to AtkinsRéalis.  
Attachments: IRC Septic To Sewer Proposal  
County Administration John Titkanich introduced the item commissioning a Septic to  
Sewer Conversion Feasibility Study in Sebastian by the firm AtkinsRéalis. He noted  
the Board had approved conducting the study in June of this year. Utilities Director  
Sean Lieske stated that the purpose of the study would be to obtain costs, options,  
and the feasibility of converting the entire community to sewer services. He assured  
the Board that his department would collaborate with Sebastian in the evaluation  
process, and a report would be brought back before the Board.  
A motion was made by Commissioner Flescher, seconded by Vice Chairman  
Moss, to approve staff's recommendation. The motion carried by the following  
vote:  
5 -  
Aye:  
Chairman Loar, Vice Chairman Moss, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner  
Flescher, and Commissioner Earman  
25-1087  
9.J.  
Aviation Boulevard Extension (33rd Street to 36th Street) Corridor Study /  
S.C.A.L.E. Report] (IRC-1761)  
Recommended Action:  
Staff recommends that the Board approve this Corridor Study of the proposed  
extension between 33rd Street and 36th Street.  
Attachments: Scale Report  
Approved staff's recommendation  
25-1088  
9.K.  
Interlocal Agreement Between Indian River County and the City of Vero  
Beach Regarding the Maintenance of Traffic Signal Infrastructure within its  
Rights of Way  
Recommended Action:  
Staff recommends the Board of County Commissioners approve the Interlocal  
Agreement between Indian River County and the City of Vero Beach regarding the  
Maintenance of Traffic Signal Infrastructure within its rights of way and authorize the  
Chairman to execute the same.  
Attachments: ILA IRC-COVB Traffic Signal Agmt-SIGNED by COVB_Sep 2025  
Approved staff's recommendation  
25-1090  
9.L.  
Change Order No. 2 and Release of Retainage - Bathroom Renovations  
IRC Main Library and North County Library (IRC-2403 / CP-2510)  
Recommended Action:  
Staff recommend approval of Change Order No. 2 and payment of Contractor’s  
Application of Payment Diaz Constructors, LLC in the amount of $90,805.99.  
Attachments: Close Out Change Order #2  
Final Pay Application #6  
Approved staff's recommendation  
25-1092  
9.M.  
Amendment to Add Porte Cochere for Sandridge Golf Club New  
Clubhouse  
Recommended Action:  
Staff recommends the Board to accept the Porte Cochere Budget by Quest  
Contracting, LLC and Additional Service #8 with sparcdesign, approve the sample  
agreement, and authorize the Chairman to execute it, after review and approval of the  
agreement.  
Attachments: Porte Cochere Budget #2 10-8-2025  
Change Order - Quest Contracting  
Sparc Design add'l serv #8 Porte Cochere  
Porte Cochere sketch  
Sparc Design Building Section  
Approved staff's recommendation  
25-1093  
Amendment to Agreement for EDSAP (RFP 2024059)  
9.N.  
Recommended Action:  
Staff recommends the Board approve the Amendment to the Agreement and  
authorize the Chairman to execute it, after review and approval by the County  
Attorney as to form and legal sufficiency.  
Attachments: EDSAP First Amendment  
Approved staff's recommendation  
25-1094  
9.O.  
Agreement for 2025-2026 Use of Facilities as 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: 25- IG Center 112B.pdf  
Approved staff's recommendation  
25-1095  
9.P.  
Draft Memorandum of Agreement Between the St. John’s River Water  
Management District and Indian River County for Coastal Habitat  
Rehabilitation and Restoration  
Recommended Action:  
Staff respectfully recommend the Board authorize the County Attorney to work with  
the SJRWMD staff to develop a final Memorandum of Agreement Between the St.  
John’s River Water Management District and Indian River County for cooperative  
project agreements to further coastal habitat rehabilitation and restoration projects in  
Indian River County, and authorize the County Administrator to execute the final  
MOA subject to review and approval by the County Attorney so long as there are no  
substantive changes to the draft MOA.  
Attachments: Continuing Project Partnership MOA (Clean).docx  
Approved staff's recommendation  
10. CONSTITUTIONAL OFFICERS and GOVERNMENTAL AGENCIES  
25-1097 Property Appraiser Annual Fiscal Report  
10.A.  
Attachments: Property Appraiser Annual Report 9.30.2025 (1)  
Property Appraiser Wesley Davis presented his budget to the Board, noting they  
were under budgeted by $585,025.43. He explained that his office had open  
positions awaiting experienced personnel and needed to have the latitude to hire staff,  
especially considering impending staff retirements. Mr. Davis added that he was able  
to hire a Certified Appraiser and an additional GIS staffer during this budget cycle.  
Accepted the Report  
25-1098  
Tax Collector Annual Fiscal Report  
10.B.  
Attachments: Tax Collector Report  
AgendaItemFiscalYearEnd25_Combined_final  
Tax Collector Carole Jean Jordan presented her Office's 2025 Excess Fee Report.  
Ms. Jordan informed the Board that her office was fee-based, and read Florida  
Statute 195.87 into the record. Finance Director Brad Newman reported the budget  
figures, noting that $2,586,182 would be returned to the County.  
Accepted the Report  
25-1099  
Clerk of Circuit Court Annual Fiscal Report  
10.C.  
Attachments: Clerk Excess Fees FY2025 Final  
Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller Ryan Butler informed the Board that 98  
percent of the funds being returned represented excess fee revenue received from the  
Recording Department. After a better-than-expected year, his Office was able to  
return $592,379.60 to the taxpayers, the largest return in the last 10 years.  
Accepted the Report  
25-1100  
Sheriff Flowers Budget Request  
10.D.  
Attachments: IRCSO Reversion letter to BOCC 24.25 rev 11.13.25  
Open POs as of 09.30.25  
IRCSO Request FY26 Budget- One Time Purchases (submitted w  
Annual Financial Report)  
Indian River County Sheriff Eric Flowers referred to his letter dated November 13,  
2025, in which he proposed a solution to the ongoing budget disagreement with the  
Board of County Commissioners. He requested the Board's approval of his proposal  
to allocate funds to the Sheriff's Office from a variety of sources; the total request was  
approximately $3.5 million.  
Under discussion, Vice Chairman Moss advocated balancing fiduciary responsibility  
with support for the Sheriff's Office and making an effort to repair the relationship.  
Sheriff Flowers had returned $1,417,951.16 in unspent funds to the County from  
Fiscal Year (FY) 2024/25, and the Vice Chairman suggested giving back that amount  
to the Sheriff's Office.  
County Administrator John Titkanich confirmed he had met with the Sheriff. He noted  
that of the $1.4 million returned, $495,664.63 were roll-over funds for equipment  
which had been purchased in FY 2024/25, but not yet received due to manufacturing  
delays. The Administrator informed the Board that roll-over funds were traditionally  
returned to the department or office in question. He also mentioned the Sheriff's  
request for an additional $963,808.69 from the County's reserve for non-annually  
recurring equipment such as body armor.  
Chairman Loar received confirmation of the figures from the Administrator, as well as  
verifying these funds would not re-set the Sheriff's baseline budget. Commissioner  
Adams requested clarification on Vice Chairman Moss' suggestion. The Vice  
Chairman made a motion to return to the Sheriff what he would be returning to the  
County.  
Vice Chairman Moss made a motion to return $1,417,951.16 in unspent funds from  
Fiscal Year 2024/25 to the Sheriff's Office. The motion died for lack of a second.  
Commissioner Earman requested further discussion and a restatement of the Sheriff's  
proposal. Administrator Titkanich informed the Board that the Sheriff's letter  
requested his unspent funds be returned to his office in the amount of $1,417,951.16;  
included in that amount was $495,664.63 of carryover funds for equipment ordered  
in 2025 but not yet received. The second request from the Sheriff was for the Board  
to allocate the approximately $1.1 million in unspent funds received from the Clerk of  
Court, Property Appraiser, and Supervisor of Elections to the Sheriff's Office. The  
third funding request was for $963,808.69 from the County's reserves to help  
purchase equipment, which was not an annually recurring expense.  
Administrator Titkanich recommended returning at least the $495,664.63 in carryover  
funds, as this was a common practice for other departments/offices. Commissioner  
Flescher agreed with returning this amount in the interest of budgetary fairness.  
Administrator Titkanich confirmed that returning the carryover funds would not reset  
the Sheriff's baseline budget. The Commissioner made a motion to return those funds  
only.  
A motion was made by Commissioner Flescher, seconded by Commissioner  
Earman, to approve returning $495,664.63 in carryover funds from outstanding  
Purchase Orders in Fiscal Year 2024/2025. The motion carried by the following  
vote:  
5 -  
Aye:  
Chairman Loar, Vice Chairman Moss, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner  
Flescher, and Commissioner Earman  
Following the vote, Commissioner Adams asked the Sheriff if his offer to withdraw  
the appeal and writ of mandamus would still be considered even though the Board did  
not approve his entire funding request. Sheriff Flowers said no, the legal action would  
remain in effect because the carryover funds did not get his office where they needed  
to be budget-wise.  
25-1102  
Supervisor of Elections Annual Fiscal Report  
10.E.  
Attachments: Supervisor of Election's Excess Fees  
[Clerk Note: This Item was heard following Item 10.C.]  
Supervisor of Elections Leslie Swan noted this budget cycle included the 2024  
Presidential Election which had an 83 percent turnout. She detailed the measures  
taken to contact the 28,000 voters whose mail-in ballot requests had expired, saving  
her office $20,000. Ms. Swan reported returning $68,363 to taxpayers, the largest  
amount during her tenure.  
Accepted the Report  
25-1072  
Supervisor of Elections Carpet Replacement  
10.F.  
Recommended Action:  
Staff recommends the Supervisor of Election’s flooring request for replacement  
flooring, in the amount of $106,690.06, be approved by the Board of County  
Commissioners.  
Attachments: Flooring Proposal  
County Administrator John Titkanich recalled the discussion and staff's investigation  
into the Elections office's carpeting, which was determined to need replacing. The  
funds would be made available via budget amendment to the General Fund Facilities  
Management Maintenance account.  
A motion was made by Commissioner Flescher, seconded by Vice Chairman  
Moss, to approve staff's recommendation. The motion carried by the following  
vote:  
5 -  
Aye:  
Chairman Loar, Vice Chairman Moss, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner  
Flescher, and Commissioner Earman  
The Chairman called for a recess at 10:30 a.m., and reconvened the meeting at 10:36  
a.m. with all members present.  
11. PUBLIC ITEMS  
A. PUBLIC HEARINGS  
B. PUBLIC NOTICE ITEMS  
12. COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR MATTERS  
25-1110  
Fellsmere Water Control District  
12.A.  
Recommended Action:  
Authorize staff to engage in conversations and participate in the review of any  
legislation proposed to convert the Fellsmere Water Control District to a ‘dependent  
special district’ with the governing and operational responsibilities transferred to  
Indian River County.  
County Administrator John Titkanich informed the Board that following the County's  
Legislative Delegation Meeting and the approval of its priorities, an important issue  
had arisen regarding the maintenance of the canals managed by the Fellsmere Water  
Control District (FWCD). In response to past flooding incidents, which involved  
coordination between the City of Fellsmere (City), the FWCD and the County, there  
were discussions about legislative changes to convert the FWCD into a Dependent  
Special District, which could place its responsibilities under either The City or the  
County.  
Representative Brackett requested that an item be brought Board so there could be  
an opportunity to discuss this as various solutions and options were being considered.  
The FWCD could potentially be dissolved, leading to challenges in managing canals  
that cross jurisdictional lines. To protect the County's interests, staff recommended  
authorization to engage in discussions and review any proposed legislation regarding  
the transfer of responsibilities from the FWCD to the County.  
Commissioner Adams, who represented Fellsmere, agreed that a solution involving all  
parties was important, and that the County should have representation during the  
process. The Board agreed with staff's recommendation.  
Kathy Copeland, Legislative and Communications Director, clarified that  
Representative Brackett wanted to get a sense of whether the Board thought it best to  
transition to a Dependent District under the County's control, or to split up the  
FWCD. County Attorney Shuler discussed the qualities of a Dependent District,  
noting it could be formed either by Ordinance or legislation, and an Independent  
District which was formed only through legislation.  
Commissioner Adams named the Solid Waste Disposal District as an example of an  
Independent District, adding this would allow for a funding source, County oversight,  
and would keep the system intact. The City has been in support of this path. Attorney  
Shuler expressed curiosity as to how the proposals would work considering parts of  
the FWCD were in the County and in the City. Considering these concerns,  
discussion was had about the importance of having a seat at the table when the  
legislation was created. Commissioner Earman suggested some other districts may  
need to be evaluated in light of the changes since they were created.  
A motion was made by Commissioner Adams, seconded by Commissioner  
Earman, to approve staff's recommendation. The motion carried by the following  
vote:  
5 -  
Aye:  
Chairman Loar, Vice Chairman Moss, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner  
Flescher, and Commissioner Earman  
13. DEPARTMENTAL MATTERS  
A. Building and Facilities Services  
B. Community Services  
C. Emergency Services  
D. Human Resources  
E. Information Technology  
F. Natural Resources  
25-1069  
The Nature Conservancy Runoff to Resilience Pilot Project  
13.F.1.  
Recommended Action:  
Staff recommends that the Board approve a letter of support for state funding for  
The Nature Conservancy’s Runoff to Resilience Pilot Project and authorize the  
Chair to sign the letter on behalf of the County.  
Attachments: Brightstorm-SWNM-Hi-res - Digital  
R2R Draft Letter  
Natural Resources Director Kylie Yanchula introduced James Byrne, Director of  
Strategy and Policy for the Nature Conservancy, who sought support for bringing  
its Runoff to Resilience Pilot Project to Indian River County. Mr. Byrne used  
slides to detail the program, which aimed to improve the quality of stormwater  
from developments before it reached the Indian River Lagoon.  
The Pilot Project would work with Homeowner Associations (HOAs) to network  
and monitor their stormwater ponds. Added technology managed water levels to  
reduce the build-up of nutrients, which would eventually be released into the  
Lagoon. Much of the program was funded privately, with plans to request  
legislative funding for infrastructure costs. Mr. Byrne provided additional  
information on the components of the project that would also help counties reach  
their BMAP compliance goals. He sought the Board's approval for a letter  
supporting the funding request.  
Commissioner Earman added that the Indian River Lagoon Council (IRLC) also  
supported the Pilot Project which would not require funds from the County. The  
Commissioner mentioned similar projects in other estuaries.  
A motion was made by Commissioner Earman, seconded by Vice Chairman  
Moss, to approve staff's recommendation. The motion carried by the  
following vote:  
5 -  
Aye:  
Chairman Loar, Vice Chairman Moss, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner  
Flescher, and Commissioner Earman  
G. Office of Management and Budget  
H. Parks, Recreation, and Conservation  
25-1076  
13.H.1.  
Consideration of a Sale Agreement for the Purchase of the 36.99-acre  
Winter Beach 73rd Site through the Environmental Lands Acquisition  
Bond  
Recommended Action:  
Staff respectfully recommends that the Board of County Commissioners approve  
the “Winter Beach 73rd” Contract Agreement, and authorize staff to proceed  
with due diligence period and close of the purchase.  
Attachments: Attachment 1-Winter Beach-73rd-Assessment  
Attachment 2-Winter Beach-73rd-Appraisals  
Attachment 3-Winter Beach 73rd - Draft  
Parks, Recreation, and Conservation Director Beth Powell noted the details of  
the "Winter Beach 73rd" property had been presented to the Board previously.  
The Board was asked for its approval to execute the purchase agreement since  
the public notice time frame had passed.  
A motion was made by Commissioner Earman, seconded by Commissioner  
Flescher, to approve staff's recommendation. The motion carried by the  
following vote:  
5 -  
Aye:  
Chairman Loar, Vice Chairman Moss, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner  
Flescher, and Commissioner Earman  
25-1077  
13.H.2.  
ELAP Ranking List of Environmental Lands Acquisition Properties for  
Nomination Periods 2 & 3  
Recommended Action:  
Staff respectfully request that the Board of County Commissioners approve the  
attached ELAP Final Ranking and Tiered List of Nominations and authorize staff  
to pursue Tier 1 Ranked Properties for acquisition consistent with the  
Environmental Lands Acquisition Panel’s recommendation.  
Attachments: Table 1 Period 2.pdf  
Parks, Recreation, and Conservation Director Beth Powell presented the  
Environmental Land Acquisition Panel's (ELAP) final ranking and tiered list of  
nominations for periods 2 and 3. In her presentation, Ms. Powell reviewed past  
bond referendums, the creation of the Program Guide and ELAP, and matrix  
evaluation factors. A chart of pending agreements showed $19.5 million in  
expenditures, not including additional costs for appraisals and surveys. The first  
batch of funds totaled $25 million of the referendum-approved $50 million total.  
Ms. Powell also informed the Board that staff would leverage the bond funds by  
applying for grants. Her presentation concluded with a ranking of the next group  
of Tier 1, 2, and 3 properties nominated for purchase.  
A motion was made by Commissioner Earman, seconded by Commissioner  
Flescher, to approve staff's recommendation. The motion carried by the  
following vote:  
5 -  
Aye:  
Chairman Loar, Vice Chairman Moss, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner  
Flescher, and Commissioner Earman  
I. Planning and Development Services  
J. Public Works  
K. Sandridge Golf Club  
L. Utilities Services  
14. COUNTY ATTORNEY MATTERS  
25-0987  
14.A.  
Indian River County Committees - Annual Member Reappointments for  
2026  
Attachments: 251104 Committee Members Term Renewal for Jan 2026  
251104 Non-Renewal Vacancies Info List - Term Exp Jan 2026  
Application Renewal - LandersKenneth (ahac)  
Resume - Landers Kenneth  
Application Renewal - MorganLinda (ahac)  
Resume - MorganLinda  
Application Renewal - AdairRobertJr (aac)  
Resume - AdairRobertJr  
Application Renewal - DeVosSteve (aac)  
Resume - DeVosSteve  
Application Renewal - KochRuben (aac)  
Resume - KochRuben  
Application Renewal - TripsonCharlotte (aac)  
Resume - TripsonCharlotte  
Application Renewal - CoxDavid (bspac)  
Resume - CoxDavid  
Application Renewal - SanMiguelFrancisco (bspac)  
Resume - SanMiguelFrancisco  
Application Renewal - MorganLinda (coc)  
Application Renewal - ClementsFrankPete (ceb)  
Resume - ClementsFrankPete  
Application Renewal - KordiakJames (ceb)  
Resume -KordiakJames  
Application Renewal - MyersDavidII (ceb)  
Resume - MyersDavidII  
Application Renewal - RigbyArdra (cdbg)  
Resume - RigbyArdra  
Application Renewal - RadeckeKathyrn  
Resume - RadeckeKathyrn  
Application Renewal - SchuhWilliam (cbaa)  
Resume - SchuhWilliam  
Application Renewal - ShortJason (cbaa)  
Resume - ShortJason  
Application Renewal - LandersKenneth (pzc)  
There was no discussion regarding this item.  
A motion was made by Commissioner Earman, seconded by Commissioner  
Flescher, to approve the list of committee members requesting reappointment as  
presented. The motion carried by the following vote:  
5 -  
Aye:  
Chairman Loar, Vice Chairman Moss, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner  
Flescher, and Commissioner Earman  
25-1071  
Disposition of Calcutta Dock Property  
14.B.  
Recommended Action:  
Staff recommends the Board declare the riparian land surplus, approve the attached  
resolution, and dispose of the property via quit claim deed to The Country Club  
Pointe Dock Association, and authorize the Chairman to execute all documents.  
Attachments: Unit 1 Plat  
Unit 2 Plat  
2025-11-18 Reso declaring surplus and disposition (Calcutta) (V2)  
ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION (filing)  
2025-11-18 QC Deed to The Country Club Pointe Dock Assoc (v1)  
Affidavit of Publication - Country Club Pointe  
Deputy County Attorney Susan Prado began by providing context for the disposition  
of the Calcutta dock property in the Country Club Point neighborhood. Ms. Prado  
informed the Board that the County had been approached by a new not-for-profit  
Country Club Pointe Dock Association (Association) requesting that the County use  
Riverboat Club as a model to deed over title and rights to the Association; the  
Association would take over management of the docks from the County. Ms. Prado  
noted the Attorney's Office recommendation was to dispose of the property under  
State Statute 125.38 because the Association was a not-for-profit organization  
looking to promote its community's welfare. Additionally, the docks do not hold a  
public interest as they only serve the members of the County Club Pointe Community.  
There were three letters submitted from residents in favor of this proposal, and one  
objection submitted through an attorney representing a homeowner who was on the  
waitlist for a dock.  
The Board entered into discussion, with Commissioner Flescher expressing  
encouragement for a solution. Vice Chairman Moss questioned what would happen to  
the residents on the waitlist after the turnover. Attorney for the Association, Barry  
Segal, explained that any owner wanting to get rid of the dock would notify the  
Association, which would then hold a silent auction; he suggested there would now be  
an incentive to turn over docks. The funds raised through the sale would go to the  
owner of the dock to recover the premium paid for their property, which was  
purchased with a dock. The Vice Chairman suggested the County should be the one  
to auction the docks. Attorney Segal argued the County did not have anything to sell  
as it did not own the riparian rights to the water.  
Attorney Prado informed the Board that a judgment would be required to definitively  
determine ownership because the original plat was illegible regarding ownership and  
maintenance. She added information on the title work that was done on the dock  
ownership. The Vice Chairman reiterated her rationale for putting the matter before a  
judge. Attorney Segal confirmed that the docks were not open to the public for use.  
Attorney Prado stated there was no clear chain of ownership to the docks; the spaces  
could be turned over to the Association, or allow a judge to decide the ownership  
question.  
Vice Chairman Moss read the letter from the attorneys at Block and Scarpa into the  
record on behalf of their client who objected to the sale. County Attorney Shuler  
commented on the idea of the County's exposure to legal action, noting it would be  
the most responsible path to turn over the docks to the Association so they could  
protect their interests. The Board briefly discussed a similar situation in the Riverboat  
Club Community, where the County relinquished its riparian rights. Commissioner  
Earman wanted the County to get out of the business of managing the docks.  
A motion was made by Commissioner Flescher, seconded by Commissioner  
Earman, to approve staff's recommendation and Resolution 2025-074, declaring a  
portion of land located in Country Club Point Subdivision Unit 1 surplus and  
deeding any and all interest to the Country Club Pointe Dock Association. The  
motion carried by the following vote:  
4 -  
Aye:  
Nay:  
Chairman Loar, Commissioner Adams, Commissioner Flescher, and Commissioner  
Earman  
1 - Vice Chairman Moss  
15. COMMISSIONERS MATTERS  
A. Commissioner Joseph E. Flescher  
B. Commissioner Deryl Loar  
25-1091  
Quarterly Updates from County Administrator & County Attorney  
15.B.1.  
Recommended Action:  
Present Updates.  
Vice Chairman Moss requested a procedure change to allow the County  
Administrator and County Attorney to add their reports to the Agenda  
themselves. Chairman Loar confirmed this was the arrangement for future  
quarterly reports.  
County Administrator John Titkanich expressed that it had been a busy year  
focused on the budget cycle, and he sought to highlight the teamwork of  
departments, staff, and leadership in promoting the county's mission of service  
excellence and core values of integrity, responsiveness, and collaboration. He  
reflected on a year filled with events celebrating the County's Centennial and  
thanked the staff who made it possible. The Administrator began with updates on  
the year's infrastructure and capital projects, including the adoption of the Capital  
Improvements Plan and the creation of a Building Facility Services Department  
for in-house management of capital projects. Data was provided showing  
measurable progress in reduced permit times and improved customer satisfaction.  
Administrator Titkanich discussed the progress Human Resources made on  
several key initiatives before providing updates on Planning and Community  
issues, including the Urban Service Boundary study, Oslo Corridor study,  
Integrated Water Masterplan, and improvements in Gifford. Investments in the  
workforce included more than 200 new hires, training and retention programs,  
and the return of the Health Fair. The Administrator closed his report, noting that  
while there were still improvements to be made, he was proud of the  
accomplishments made over the past year.  
County Attorney Jennifer Shuler started by celebrating the addition of a staff  
assistant to the team. She informed the Board of her department's initiative to  
handle more litigation in-house and discussed efforts to expand their expertise.  
Attorney Shuler then discussed their real estate work, the goal of reviewing and  
revising the County's code regarding land real estate procedures, and initiatives  
undertaken by their Land Acquisition and Lease Specialist. She mentioned the  
upcoming legislative session and their strategy to handle the challenges presented  
by Senate Bill 180, which would restrict the County's ability to manage  
development regulations. Lastly, Attorney Shuler reported a sharp increase in  
public information requests and described staff's commitment to successfully  
fulfilling them.  
No Action Taken or Required  
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  
County resident Vivian Bryant voiced concerns over Solid Waste Management and  
increased property taxes. She emphasized the financial burden imposed by the charge  
for universal garbage service, which she did not use, and expressed a belief that her  
right to due process was not being honored. The Board acknowledged her concerns  
but maintained that the Solid Waste Assessment had been publicly noticed and  
adopted; there was no current process for appeal.  
No Action Taken or Required  
18. ADJOURNMENT  
There being no further business, the Chairman adjourned the meeting at 12:17 p.m.