Board of County Commissioners- Informal Meeting (2025-05-13)

BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS ST. LUCIE COUNTY, FLORIDA Informal Meeting May 13, 2025 Convened: 9:00 AM Adjourned: 11:37 AM 1. CALL TO ORDER - JAMIE FOWLER, CHAIR BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS The meeting was called to order at 9:00 AM by Chair Jamie Fowler, District No. 4. Present Commissioner Jamie Fowler, District 4; Commissioner Larry Leet, District 2; Commissioner James Clasby, District 1; Commissioner Erin Lowry, District 3; Commissioner Cathy Townsend, District 5 Also Present Dan McIntyre, County Attorney George Landry, County Administrator Mayte Santamaria, Deputy County Administrator Jason Davis, Deputy County Administrator Patrick Dayan, P.E., Public Works Director Chris Lestrange, P.E., Assistant Public Works Director Benjamin Balcer, Planning & Development Services Director Kori Benton, Planning & Development Services Planning Manager Lori Rocky, Government Relations Division Manager Cameron Howard, Airport Director Kristi Wong, Director of Human Services Sydney Halleran, Agenda Coordinator Vera Smith, Deputy Clerk Recording Secretary 2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 3. DISCUSSION ITEMS A. Pavement Management Plan - Glades Cut Off Road Repaving Christopher Lestrange, Assistant Director, and Patrick Dayan, Director of Public Works, presented an ongoing discussion to the Board regarding the road paving plan for Glades Cut Off Road, which extends from Selvitz Road to West Midway Road. This plan is part of the first year of the 5-year Pavement Management Plan for FY2026, and they also discussed various funding scenarios. Additional funding of $1 million was proposed to include Glades Cut-Off Road from Selvitz to Midway in the rehabilitation plan. The plan includes two segments: one from Selvitz Road to the Turnpike Bridge, 1.75 miles with a Pavement Condition Index (PCI) score of 55, and another from the Turnpike Bridge to Midway Road, .50 miles with a PCI score of 75. The cost estimate for the first segment includes reclamation at an estimated cost of $1.7

BOCC Informal Meeting Tuesday, May 13, 2025 9:00 AM 2 | P a g e million and road widening. The second segment, which is in better condition, would require resurfacing and milling overlay for $0.6 million. If the Board decides to complete both segments, the total estimated cost would be $2.3 million. In the Board's decision to pave both segments of the roadway, the three railroad crossings—one near the concrete plant, one near Southern Eagle Distributors, and one at the southern end near the landfill and Tropicana, which range from 50 to 100 feet in length- are excluded from the project. The responsibility for rehabilitating these crossings will fall to the railroad. Staff requested the Board’s direction regarding the funding and repaving of the roadways, with two options for recommendation: A. Keep a consistent $5 million allocation in the resurfacing program CIP and replace the FY26 project (Sneed Road) with Glades Cut Off Road. B. Seek an additional allocation of $2.3M in FY2026 for repaving Glades Cut Off Road (Selvitz Road to West Midway Road) and coordinate with OMB and Administration to balance the Sales Tax Budget CIP in out years. Staff recommended Option B - Seek an additional allocation of $2.3M in FY2026 for repaving Glades Cut Off Road (Selvitz Road to West Midway Road) and coordinate with the Office of Management and Budget and Administration to balance the Sales Tax Budget CIP in out years. Commissioner Leet asked for the Sneed Road rating. In response, Mr. Dayan advised that the roadway has two separate major sections, from Kelly Road to Orange Avenue, rated 79, and Okeechobee to Flum Road, which has a PCI score in the mid-60s and high 60s for different sections. The entirety of the project for Sneed Road would be from State Road 70 to Orange Avenue with slight widening. Commissioner Clasby asked for clarification regarding the railroad improvements. In response, Mr. Lestrange explained that in any rehabilitation of the railroad track right-of-way, the FEC will perform the work and bill the County. There are agreements with the FEC for the County roadways to cross their tracks. The FEC has a separate rehabilitation schedule that staff must coordinate with for improvements. Commissioner Townsend commented on the Glades Cut-Off Road improvements due to their higher usage and impact on more people. Chair Fowler expressed concerns about ongoing projects by South Florida Water Management and the potential impact on Sneed Road. The Board and staff discussed improvements to the Glades Cut-Off Road, South Florida Water Management projects, additional right-of-way, future mining proposals, FEC rehabilitations, and the potential for future road widening. The Board leaned towards a more conservative approach, preferring Option A to avoid budget uncertainties due to higher usage and potential impact from ongoing projects. After the Board discussion, a consensus of 4 to 1 was reached in favor of the staff recommendation for Option A. No formal direction or action was taken; staff will follow up with the Board regarding the suggestions made. B. Expansion of Uses in Agricultural (AG) Zoning Districts Benjamin Balcer, the Director, and Kori Benton, the Planning Manager of Planning & Development Services, presented a discussion to the Board regarding the expansion of permissible uses within the

BOCC Informal Meeting Tuesday, May 13, 2025 9:00 AM 3 | P a g e County Agricultural Zoning Districts (AG-2.5). The AG-2.5 Zoning District is one of the three agricultural zoning districts in the County. The district is predominantly located on the western edge of the Urban Services Boundary (USB) between Orange Avenue and Midway Road. There are 576 parcels within the zoning district, which covers just under 5,000 acres. The AG-5 district begins around Matthew, Brocksmith, and McCarty Roads. The County's comprehensive plan describes the AG-2.5 land use designation as intended for areas outside the USB, which are associated with agricultural or agricultural-related activities. These areas are recognized as appropriate for crop production and ranching and potentially suitable for limited residential and nonresidential development. The AG-2.5 land use and correspondence zoning designation allows for one dwelling unit per 2.5 gross acres. The County's land development code lists permitted, conditional, and accessory uses for the AG-2.5 Zoning District, including a variety of agricultural production, livestock, kennels, riding stables, non-commercial research facilities, family daycare homes, solar generation stations, and family residential homes. The land development code lists allowable conditional uses requiring approval by the Board. These incorporate limited commercial and industrial uses, including aircraft storage and maintenance, warehousing and storage of farm products, farmers' markets, gas stations, industrial wastewater disposal, mining, outdoor shooting ranges, and sporting and recreational camps, as well as the manufacturing of agricultural chemicals, food products and lumber and wood products. A recent text amendment adoption expanded the list of conditional uses to include utility trade contractors with specialty storage that will be subject to additional supplemental standards, including the proximity to State Road 70 and State Road 68. The code lists allowable accessory uses, which are subordinated to the primary permanent uses, such as mobile homes, retail or hotel wholesale trade, guest homes, solar energy production, and cargo containers to serve as accessory structures with an improved building permit. The purpose of the discussion was to gauge the Board's interest in expanding the list of allowed uses within the AG 2.5 District. One additional contemplated use stems from a code enforcement case where a resident is operating a dumpster business on a parcel zoned in AG-2.5; the code doesn't allow this use. Therefore, the business is operating without active zoning compliance. Staff research shows most jurisdictions allow similar uses to the County in agricultural zoning districts, with limited allowances for commercial and industrial types of use. Most jurisdictions allow for animal boarding, commercial kennels, vehicle tracks, mining, vet clinics, produce stands, or farmers' markets as permitted or for special, exceptional uses. The special, exceptional uses are similar to the County’s conditional use permit process. None of the six jurisdictions (Okeechobee, Indian River, Martin, Marion, Alachua, Seminole) allow for the storage of contractor equipment or rental equipment yards within their AG-Zoning Districts. Martin County lists these uses as permitted uses in their Rural Business Zoning District, which incorporates more commercial and industrial uses, including utility service contractors and agricultural sales facilities. Their Rural Business Zoning District is limited to parcels that are zoned for an industrial future land use designation, and a majority of the areas are within urbanized locations with access to county-standard roads, utilities, and proximity to employees. Staff requested that the Board provide directions on whether they would like staff to look into expanding the list of allowable, permitted, or conditional uses within the AG-2.5 zoning districts. Staff requested the Board to consider replacing additional uses as conditional uses, to allow the Board to review each proposal on a case-by-case basis. It also provides appropriate conditions of approval to include hours of operation, the need for additional buffering and distance separation from existing residential uses, and the need for infrastructure improvements for access and stormwater permitting compliance. Commissioner Townsend supports the idea of allowing the dumpster business as a conditional use,

BOCC Informal Meeting Tuesday, May 13, 2025 9:00 AM 4 | P a g e ensuring maintenance and regulation. Chair Fowler and Commissioner Leet agreed with the conditional use approach, ensuring it is not a blanket approval for everyone. Commissioner Clasby commented on the allowances of AG-2.5 and the importance of allowing land utilization beyond just residential development. He questioned whether the additional allowance (dumpster business) in AG-2.5 would be a use in AG-5. In response, Mr. Balcer advised that the additional use is neither a permanent use nor a listed conditional use in the AG-2.5. He suggested the Board consider expanding the allowed uses in the AG-5 Zoning District to align with any changes made to the AG-2.5 district. Mr. Benton mentioned the need for additional mail notices to 1,000 ft. and buffering requirements for utility trade contractors and depot storage. The Board and staff discussed specific regulations for storing equipment, fencing, existing/standard landscape buffer requirements, the importance of not over-regulating, the appropriate buffer and setback standards, with suggestions for 10 ft. from the property line and 10 ft. of landscaping buffer setback (20ft.), conditional use petitions, existing standards for utility contractors, and adjustments through the Planning and Zoning process. Explore adding dumpster/container storage as a conditional use in the AG 2.5 Zoning District, with requirements for setbacks, landscaping buffers, and other supplemental standards. After the Board discussion, a consensus was reached for staff to draft new language as discussed and bring it back to the Board for approval. No formal direction or action was taken; staff will follow up with the Board regarding the suggestions made. C. Opioid Settlement Funding Presentation Lori Rocky, Government Relations Division Manager, presented the Board with an overview of the opioid settlement funding, compliance, and oversight. In 2022, there was a national settlement that was reached with major pharmacy chains and opioid manufacturers. The funds are specifically allocated for opioid treatment and recovery initiatives and cannot be used for other services or expenses. These funds are separate from the County’s General Revenue. The local input and data-driven planning will provide a guide on how funding will be used in the community to support long-term recovery efforts. With the Florida Opioid settlement funds, the state received $3.1 billion to be distributed over 18 years, with St. Lucie County receiving both Regional and City/County funds with different/similar requirements. The Regional funds allocation requires a population over 300,000, an interlocal agreement with cities, and an Advisory Board to oversee funds. Also, the County is required to administer the competitive solicitation for the distribution of the funds to approved programs. The City/County funds allocation requires signing a formal opioid settlement agreement with the state, a population over 300,000/Cities 10,000, and exclusive use for opioid abatement purposes. The state's plan is managed by the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). Counties are required to submit an implementation plan that emphasizes the core strategies and improved practices outlined by the state in Schedules A and B of the settlement. The focus is on opioid-related prevention, treatment, and recovery support. St Lucie County is using evidence-based services through partnerships with the Department of Health and local stakeholders in the Medical and Mental Health community. The County will receive a total of $17 million over 18 years, with annual payments decreasing over time. In the first year (2023), the County received $2.5 million, while in the 18th

BOCC Informal Meeting Tuesday, May 13, 2025 9:00 AM 5 | P a g e year, it will receive $265,000 in Regional Funding. The same principles with the direct funding received from the settlement in the City/County funding, amounting to $4 million with annual payments over 18 years. These funds must be used solely for treatment and recovery. In the first year (2022), the County received $204,000, while in the 18 th year, it will receive an estimated $84,000 for treatment and recovery, with planned uses including services at the jail. In 2021, an interlocal agreement was entered into with the two cities, and formed an advisory Board to oversee the use of the settlement funds. In 2024, the Department of Health (DOH) came forward with a proposal to assist in a more direct format to help with the oversight of the funding and program. The advisory board, comprising nine members, oversees the use of settlement funds and includes representatives from various sectors. Community-based projects will be solicited through a Request for Applications (RFA) process, focusing on treatment, recovery, and prevention. The Advisory Committee will review grant proposals, and DOH will assist in creating the RFA to ensure they meet core strategies. The County will be required to advertise the RFA. The Advisory Committee will rank and score proposals, and the final approval will come from the Board. The directly funded programs include overdose fatality review, community training, and the Treasure Coast opioid awareness summit. DOH is assisting with the Opioid Abatement Program Coordination program and ensuring compliance with state requirements. Commissioner Townsend expressed concerns about derelict vessels, the presence of convicted felons living on boats, and the issues of drug and opioid use, specifically mentioning Kratom. She highlighted the dangers associated with Kratom and proposed that its sale be banned/illegal in St. Lucie County. Commissioner Clasby commented on the number of sailboats and the owners of the vessels, and the usage of Kratom in the community. He supports addressing the issue and suggests working with staff to create ordinances for anchoring limitations. The Board discussed the use of kratom in the community and considered a ban on its sale. They also addressed issues related to opioids, the urgency of dealing with derelict vessels, and the need for ordinances regarding anchoring limitations and measures. Additionally, they talked about the importance of collaboration with law enforcement. Mayte Santamaria, Deputy County Administrator, provided an update on the derelict vessel issue. Restrictions are not associated with the occupant's potential criminal past; the restrictions as associated with the physical state of the vessel itself. Currently, there are 17 vessels on the list awaiting removal, but they cannot be taken off immediately. A notification process must be followed with Fish and Wildlife, which involves informing the potential owner and giving them an opportunity to rescue the vessel. The condition of the vessel does not factor into the process, and specific criteria must be met during the statutory notice period. County staff and representatives from Fish and Wildlife have set up weekly meetings to ensure progress on the vessel program. There is a proposed interlocal agreement between the County and the City of Fort Pierce concerning vessel anchoring. This agreement will cover enforcement, planning, and restrictions on how long a vessel can remain anchored in one location before it must move to another spot. This will also require a review by the state, as they will be policing as well. The proposal will come before the Board for approval of both the interlocal agreement with the City of Fort Pierce and the ordinance to change the code. Commissioner Townsend mentioned that there were 18 more boats on the dock, seven of which are

BOCC Informal Meeting Tuesday, May 13, 2025 9:00 AM 6 | P a g e registered sex offenders. She wanted the Board to be aware of the issue of boats anchoring behind houses and the potential safety concerns. George Landry, County Administrator, discussed the need for comprehensive research and collaboration with the health department to address Kratom. No consensus was reached, as the discussion was informational only. D. Airport Update - ADD ON Mayte Santamaria, the Deputy County Administrator, updated the Board on ongoing Request for Proposal (RFP) negotiations and proposals related to various airport parcel businesses on Arrow East/West. On the Arrow West side of the airport, six parcels were identified in the RFP. Two entities proposed an MRO business on parcels A and B, and the lease is expected to be presented to the Board at the June 3, 2025, BOCC meeting. The parcels to the north (C, D, E, F) have proposals for hangars, MRO facilities, fuel, and transient aviation support services, with ongoing negotiations. There is a 2.09-acre parcel outside the RFP for an aircraft maintenance technician school, a draft lease awaiting timelines and exhibits. On the Arrow East side of the airport parcels A, B, and C, there is a proposal for a second Fixed Based Operator (FBO), terminal building, parking, maintenance/aircraft hangars, tie-downs, and a field farm. The proposer had the lease approved a month ago and has been coordinating with staff on the final plans for the Board’s approval. For the remaining half of the Arrow East parcels (D, E, F), there is a proposal for multiple hangars that will serve as a refurbishment center, featuring maintenance, interior work, electrical work, painting, upholstery, warranty services, and more. On the north side of the parcel, there is a proposal for air ambulance and medical transport services, which would be immediately adjacent to the fire station at the airport. Staff is awaiting the phasing plan to be incorporated into the lease. On the east side, near the industrial portion of the airport, there is a 3.08-acre parcel with a proposal for a flight school and MRO for their fleet. The proposer is in the process of updating the corporate name and entity for the finalization of the lease. A recent proposal for industrial uses at the front of the airport includes manufacturing, distribution, aviation and defense, vehicle shipping, aircraft rehab, and a potential hotel site. The proposal is being evaluated, and appraisals are being conducted on the parcels. The staff requested feedback and directions from the Board. George Landry, County Administrator, suggested establishing a timeline for lease execution within the RFP, with a period for decision-making before moving on to other interests. Commissioner Clasby expressed the importance of avoiding delays and ensuring development, suggesting a timeline with an opt-out clause. Ms. Santamaria mentioned the FAA requirements for phased development and lease payments to incentivize development. Commissioner Townsend expresses concern about a company stalling due to recession fears, suggesting a 30-60 day decision period. She mentioned that a different company is interested in moving forward, but it depends on the runway extension. She suggested adjustments to the rent within the agreements. If construction begins, the rent could be deferred slightly to provide them with some lead time before the

BOCC Informal Meeting Tuesday, May 13, 2025 9:00 AM 7 | P a g e payments start. In response, Ms. Santamaria explained that due to the timeline associated with development, rent would be phased in. Commissioner Townsend mentioned grants to extend the runway and negotiations with companies utilizing the runway to fund the remaining costs. She talked about precautions for development to prevent disqualifications related to the 139 Certification. She mentioned that the company Freedom Air within the MRO hangar pays more rent than the FBO, and they would like to build another hangar and renew their lease. Commissioner Leet asked if the proposed Aircraft Maintenance Technician School (AMTS) would be working with Indian River State College. In response, Ms. Santamaria explained she was unaware at this time and would get back to the Board. Commissioner Townsend expressed concerns regarding the need for legal enforcement to remove derelict airplanes and maintain airport standards. In response, Ms. Santamaria explained the process of removing derelict airplanes, involving multiple parties and statutory procedures. The Board and staff discussed airport activities such as appraisals, rental rates, derelict airplanes, an uninhabitable hangar, and unpermitted construction. They addressed the Freedom Air hangar, coordinating with the building official to monitor tenant activities, ensuring enforcement to prevent unpermitted actions, and the establishment of a timeline (60-90 days) for interested parties to finalize leases. No formal direction or action was taken; staff will follow up with the Board regarding the suggestions made. E. Health Services Contract Update - ADD ON Kristi Wong, Director of Human Resources and Risk Management, provided the Board with a brief update on the average utilization of the Health Services contract. She reported on the utilization of wellness services based on monthly billing from October 2024 to March 2025. The current averages are based on 209 individual employees and dependents, or retirees attending appointments for services per month. Approximately 81% are employees, and 19% are dependents. The breakdown among the County employees and Constitutional Officers covered under the health plan is 77% Board of County Commissioners, 16% Clerk and Comptroller, 6% Property Appraiser, Supervisor of Elections, and Children's Services, are less than 1% utilization. The three main services provided by the wellness provider are IV therapy/injections, medical massage, and chiropractic. On average, there are approximately 667 IV therapy sessions, 103 medical massages, and 109 chiropractic visits per month, based on five months. In percentage terms, IV therapy accounts for approximately 76% of services, medical massage for 16%, and chiropractic for 12%. As of October 2024, the total monthly spending on these services is approximately $64,000, averaging $73 per service. The staff requested feedback and guidance from the Board on the future direction of these services, including redeveloping an RFP. Commissioner Townsend suggested going back out for a bid, supporting redeveloping the RFP, but also suggested removing the 10-mile radius requirement. She emphasized the importance of providing options for staff in St. Lucie County and expressed openness to having services in two locations. She discussed the

BOCC Informal Meeting Tuesday, May 13, 2025 9:00 AM 8 | P a g e importance of staff having access to services and suggested a limit on massage appointments, and that the contract prioritizes staff needs and ensures they are met before private clients. Chair Fowler agrees with the need to remove the 10-mile radius and suggested focusing on businesses within St. Lucie County. She suggested incorporating a rating system in the contract to ensure dedicated staff services. Commissioner Clasby commented on researching massage services and therapeutic IVs and suggested specific requirements for responsiveness and appointment availability within a week of services needed. He also expressed concern regarding the funding for the services, contract/contractors, and the 10-mile radius requirement, and suggested that the offices be within St. Lucie County. Commissioner Lowry asked about the timeline for putting the RFP back out for bid. In response, George Landry, the County Administrator, suggested that the Board take time to review the scope and qualifications of the previous RFP. He recommended making changes to establish a more formalized timeline to fulfill all the Board's intentions. Commissioner Townsend suggested the Board finalize the recommendations by the end of June, proposing a timeline for putting the RFP out for bid and closing by the end of July, with a decision by August 15 th and the new contractor to take effect by September. In response, Mr. Landry explained the bidding process of 30–60 days and suggested a timeline closer to October for final decisions. Commissioner Leet asked about the cost savings and the possibility of letting employees choose their providers. In response, Mr. Landry explains the cost savings of employee self-insurance, monitoring, and the benefits of having a specific vendor. Commissioner Townsend discussed the importance of having a clinic offering holistic services funded by savings from the Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance plan. Commissioner Clasby asked about the number of County employees utilizing healthcare services (insurance) and the benefits of dividing the funding used for the healthcare services into a Health Savings Account (HSA) card for all employees to spend as they choose. In response, Mr. Landry advised an estimated 750 employees out of over 950 employees. Also, the current health plan does not qualify for an HSA. The County would need to modify the health plan to offer the HSA, which would not be a benefit to County savings, and most companies are seeking to get out of the HSA plan. Commissioner Lowry inquired about the duration of the current health services contract. In response, Mr. Landry explained that the contract is for one year and is set to expire at the end of March 2026. There is an option for automatic renewal if the Board decides to pursue it. Commissioner Townsend suggested a three-year contract term with language clauses for non-compliance and requirements for quarterly reports. Commissioner Clasby agreed and expressed the need for budget certainty and performance metrics in the contract. The Board and staff also discussed the RFP bidding process, services needed, data, contract terms/length,

BOCC Informal Meeting Tuesday, May 13, 2025 9:00 AM 9 | P a g e performance measures, employee spending, HSA benefits, quarterly reports on services provided, and the cost savings from using the current County clinic and IV therapy provider compared to the health plan, accountability, and the ability to cancel the contract if the provider is not meeting expectations. Upon discussion, a consensus was made to reissue the RFP for bidding. No formal direction or action was taken; staff will follow up with the Board regarding the suggestions made. Board Discussion Commissioner Leet expressed concern regarding garbage/solid waste disposal in Fort Pierce and the need to review County land regulations to prevent future issues. He suggested exploring the County's zoning regulations and potential fees related to the FEC's garbage dumping activities. In response, Ms. Santamaria explained that heavy industrial and utility zones might be suitable for garbage disposal sites, which would require appropriate land use designations and conditional uses. Commissioner Clasby also expressed concerns about the disposal of solid waste and suggested that the County consider implementing a fee for each transfer of solid waste. In response, Ms. Santamaria advised that she would research the possibility and follow up with the Board. Commissioner Clasby requested an update on Mosquito Control operations due to increased mosquito activity on South Beach. Commissioner Leet, chair of the Board, stated that weather has delayed flights for dusting/fogging and other control measures, but the issue is being addressed. Commissioner Clasby proposed adjustments to meeting times to increase public visibility and flexibility, suggesting the 9 am BOCC Regular meeting be moved to 3 pm and an Informal meeting on the same day at 9 am. The monthly BOCC nighttime meeting at 6 pm will stay the same, allowing for two nighttime meetings for public hearings, preventing any single meeting from being overloaded. Commissioner Leet expressed concern and potential benefits regarding the proposed meeting schedule changes. He advised that he is open to whatever would bring more constituents and increase viewership. Commissioner Townsend clarified the suggested change to the meeting schedule. Instead of three meetings on Tuesdays over three weeks, the suggestion is to eliminate the 9 am BOCC meeting during the third week and hold two meetings on the second Tuesday of the month: an informal meeting at 9 am followed by the regular meeting at 3 pm. In response, Commissioner Clasby advised that he was not suggesting the change, but he was open to moving the meeting. He suggested a shift in the start time of the day meeting to later in the afternoon, but to schedule the informal meeting for the same day. Chair Fowler commented and suggested the first Tuesday of the month to remain the same with the 6 pm BOCC meeting, no meeting on the second Tuesday of the month, and the third Tuesday have the informal meeting at 9 am and either at 3 pm or 4 pm start the BOCC meeting to conduct the presentations and proclamations, etc., recess and come back at 6 pm to finish the meeting. Commissioner Townsend expressed concern about non-profit presentations and overall presentations taking up excessive meeting time, suggesting a limit of 10 minutes. George Landry, County Administrator, commented regarding staff presentations during informal meetings,

BOCC Informal Meeting Tuesday, May 13, 2025 9:00 AM 10 | P a g e which are not televised, the need to reach a wider audience, and the flexibility of scheduling public hearings to be aired to the public. He also suggested at the will of the Board, on the third Tuesday of the month, conduct the informal meeting at 9 am, and 3 pm, begin the regular meeting, which will be aired to the public via YouTube, Facebook, etc. with a few staff presentations/first portion of the agenda including public comments and the consent agenda, take a recess until 6 pm, conduct another public comment section for constituents unable to attend the 3 pm portion of the meeting, go into public hearings and the regular agenda. He suggested recessing around 4:30 pm to allow staff to grab food and continue the meeting at 6 pm. He advised that this will allow staff more time to prepare and adjust to reports and spread the public hearing to prevent midnight meetings. This will be a trial period that lasts for three months. If positive feedback is received from the public, adjustments can be made, but no changes will be permanent. Mayte Santamaria, Deputy County Administrator, mentioned a possible conflict of scheduling with the Planning & Zoning on the third Tuesday of the month and suggested the first two weeks of the month for BOCC regular/informal meetings. Commissioner Lowry suggested the first and third week of the month for preparation and scheduling. Chair Fowler questioned the notification period for meetings. In response, Ms. Santamaria advised depending on the changes, there is a minimum of a 10-day notice for advertising in advance. The typical preparation is 15 days in advance for any unforeseen issues. Commissioner Townsend suggested holding a separate special meeting for time-sensitive items as an option. She discussed potential conflicts regarding the meeting schedule for public hearings with the Planning & Development Director, particularly during either the first two weeks of the month or the first and third weeks. In response, Benjamin Balcer, Planning & Development Services Director, advised that generally, the department holds public hearings during night meetings, which require additional public notices that are sent out at least 10 days prior. With two-night meetings on the third week with BOCC and Planning and Zoning, it may be difficult for the staff. The preference for staff would be to have the BOCC meeting on the first/second Tuesday of the month, and Planning & Zoning the third week. He advised that an additional night meeting would provide more flexibility. Mr. Landry mentioned the need for the BOCC meeting to remain on Tuesdays, by rule, the City’s/School Board selects a meeting day after the Board. This allows everyone to meet on different days and allows the public to attend different meetings. A change in the meeting day would have an effect on other municipalities, with the exception of special meetings. Ms. Santamaria suggested a 30-day notice period for any changes to ensure adequate time for adjustments for staff, applicants, and developers. Chair Fowler expressed concerns regarding meetings on the second Tuesday due to prior obligations scheduled. She suggested pushing the informal meeting to the afternoon at 1 pm instead of 9 am. Katherine Barbieri, the Assistant County Attorney, noted the importance of reasonable notice of publishing the meeting agenda and all items in advance to give constituents time to decide whether to attend.

BOCC Informal Meeting Tuesday, May 13, 2025 9:00 AM 11 | P a g e Commissioner Clasby asked if public comments could be included in the informal meetings and possibly held in conference room 3. In response, Mr. Landry explained that the informal meetings are for Board discussion/workshop for internal discussions for direction. The change in location of the informal meetings would be at the will of the Board. Commissioner Townsend mentioned the need for staff to attend meetings to stay informed and assist if needed, and suggested starting the new schedule in August after the budget session, allowing proper notification. The Board and staff discussed/debated potential changes to the informal and regular meeting schedule, specifically regarding the timing of meetings between the second and third week of the month, the start time (either 3 PM or 4 PM), recess time, informal meeting times at 1 pm, informal meeting location, adding public comment to informal meetings, duration of staff presentations/meetings, changing meeting times via an ordinance, and the flexibility in scheduling public hearings. They also considered how the new meeting schedule would impact staff workload, the language in County code, and the necessity of providing reasonable notice for public hearings. After the discussion, it was agreed that the first Tuesday of the month will maintain the same schedule, with a meeting at 6 PM. On the second Tuesday of the month, two meetings will be consolidated: an informal meeting at 1 PM, followed by the BOCC regular meeting at 3 PM. There will be a recess before resuming for public hearings at 6 PM. The consensus is for consideration only and is subject to change, Staff will follow up with the Board regarding the final temporary schedule adjustment. Commissioner Townsend mentioned a Town Hall meeting held in Lakewood Park to address challenges and complaints of constituents regarding trash, tow trucks, speeding, canals, etc., and acknowledged and praised staff for their dedication and assistance. Chair Fowler discussed working on a text amendment to allow agricultural-style fences in St. Lucie Gardens. In response, the Board discussed residents facing code violations, previous approval allowing such fences in the rear and sides, but not the front. Chair Fowler suggested revisiting the issue to allow nicer fences in residential areas. County Administrator George Landry clarified that the Board's informal meeting discussion was intended for discussion only. No formal direction or action was taken; staff will follow up with the Board regarding the suggestions made. 4. ADJOURNMENT With no other information to be brought for consideration before the Board, the meeting was adjourned at 11:37 AM. Please note: Final minutes are recorded in the official minute books filed with the Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller, which are available for inspection upon request.