Board of County Commissioners- Informal Meeting (2025-12-09)

BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS ST. LUCIE COUNTY, FLORIDA Informal Meeting December 9, 2025 Convened: 9:00 AM Adjourned: 10:14 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 Katherine Barbieri, Interim County Attorney George Landry, County Administrator Mayte Santamaria, Deputy County Administrator Sandra Bogan, Resilience Navigator Georgia Vince, Tetra Tech Inc. Consultant Erin Hague, Tetra Tech Inc. Consultant Joshua Revord, Port, Inlet & Beaches Director Sydney Halleran, Agenda Coordinator Vera Smith, Deputy Clerk Recording Secretary 2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 3. DISCUSSION ITEMS A. Draft St. Lucie County Regional Resilience Plan Sandra Bogan, County Resilience Navigator, Georgia Vince, and Erin Hague, Consultants of Tetra Tech Inc., presented the resilience vulnerability assessments and the draft regional resilience plan to the Board. The project is funded by a CDBG-Mitigation grant and a Resilient Florida grant, aiming to plan for future growth and infrastructure demands. The study takes a long-range review of how St. Lucie County can plan for future growth and infrastructure demands over the decades, while addressing flood mitigation and resiliency. The study reviewed projections out to the years 2040, 2070, and 2100 and highlighting areas where the County may plan for adaptations that reduce risks from natural hazards, impacts, and implement infrastructure improvements. The vulnerability assessments and vulnerability plan are tools for the County to plan its infrastructure and properly utilize tax dollars. In addition, the county-wide vulnerability assessment makes the County eligible for flood mitigation and resilience-related grant funding. Staff is seeking the Board's input on the drafted plan to be integrated into the final plan and brought back to the Board in the future.

BOCC Informal Meeting Tuesday, December 9, 2025 9:00 AM 2 | P a g e Georgia Vince of Tetra Tech Inc. provided an overview of the drafted plan and assessment. Community resiliency planning is an important process with systematic evidence-based analysis that analyzes local community risks to develop adaptations to reduce risks. The plan is road roadmap to enhance resiliency across the County and incorporates working with local municipalities. The strategies were identified to reduce the risks of current and future impacts to safety, health, and economic stability. The plan is a collaboration of policy adaptation, management, and long-term resiliency. The County has been collaborating closely with the municipalities of St. Lucie, Fort Pierce, and St. Lucie Village to create a comprehensive countywide vulnerability assessment and resiliency plan. The plan incorporates a diverse steering committee, community engagement, outreach, collaboration with the science-based foundation, and inclusive engagement to create a model for integration with science and planning across the region. Data collection included critical asset identification and two vulnerability assessments: flood analysis and other hazards. The study reviewed flooding, extreme heat throughout severe storms, drought, high winds, wildfire, and coastal erosion. The study incorporated local and regional datasets, hydrologic models, and GIS-based analysis. The analysis includes local and regional data sets and a sea level rise marsh model. Ms. Vince provided Flood maps showing the progression of tidal flooding, storm surge impacts, and the 100-year/24-hour rainfall map with sea level rise projections. The drought analysis showed very low rainfall, and the average is lower than normal. The hazard mitigation, emergency preparedness, land use planning, code and policy development, infrastructure investment, and public health policies and programs can all be informed by the vulnerability assessments. The Overall adaptation strategies include the gray infrastructure to fortify and elevate buildings, green infrastructure to protect and restore, and augment natural areas, community education programs, refining emergency management planning, and land use and code guidance. The adaptation approach is to identify those actions that are immediate things that can be done right now with existing resources. Identify projects that need additional planning and coordination, including engineering studies and permits. The plan categorizes adaptation strategies requiring significant research investment or sequencing over a long, longer period in an implementation plan. Erin Hague, of Tetra Tech Inc., explained the refinement of adaptation strategies by the steering committee, focusing on facilities and infrastructure. Gray infrastructure includes buildings, pipes, and pumps, which may need retrofitting for flood risk and energy management. Green infrastructure strategies focus on stormwater management and natural areas, recognizing space constraints. She advised that utilizing vulnerability assessment helps identify which of the facilities may need to be adapted, when, and what hazards are exposed to ecosystems and nature-based solutions. Parks and conservation lands are the best strategy for resilience is leaving land in its natural state and managing it, particularly related to Shoreline areas. Community planning and policy were discussed, ensuring strategies are implementable and aligned with the comprehensive plan. Ms. Hague provided an overview of the adaptation types related to community planning and policy, emergency management, community education, programs, and readiness. A capacity assessment was conducted to evaluate procedures, budgeting, and emergency management activities. The assessment revealed strong adaptive capacity in flood management but moderate capacity in other hazards, with recommendations for improvement. Ms. Hague outlined the policy analysis, integrating uniform strategies and policies into the comprehensive plan. The analysis includes one goal, four objectives, and approximately 60 model policies, directly linking to adaptation strategies. Individual comprehensive plans for each jurisdiction were analyzed to identify conflicts and align with adaptation strategies. The analysis covers shoreline

BOCC Informal Meeting Tuesday, December 9, 2025 9:00 AM 3 | P a g e design, landscaping, stormwater management, and funding implementation through municipal service benefit units or stormwater utilities. The study creates a unified strategy for the County and municipalities, integrating advanced community engagement and education opportunities. The plan provides a long-term roadmap for implementation. Chair Fowler thanked the team for their work, appreciated the holistic approach to resiliency planning. The Board did not have any further questions or comments on this matter. No consensus was made; the presentation was for informational purposes. B. Port, Inlet, and Beaches Update Joshua Revord, Port, Inlet & Beaches Director, presented a summary update of various projects of the Port, Inlet, and Beaches to the Board. The update began with the Fort Pierce Shore Protection Project, as the necessary funding was gathered to implement this project, thanks to Representative Mass, who helped secure a line item appropriation bill. The project was executed by the Army Corps of Engineers and is ready to mobilize. A presentation was given to the South Beach Association, and updates will be provided weekly on the project's progress. The project has a $15 million price tag, but due to partnerships, the County typically pays only 11 cents on the dollar. The integral determination report was recently approved, reducing the cost share with the Army Corps of Engineers with additional monitoring elements, down to around 7%. The South St. Lucie CSRM Project is 100% federally approved due to Hurricane Nicole. The Fort Pierce Shore Protection Project will have the same contractor and is expected to start in mid- January 2026. The Fort Pierce Operation and Maintenance Dredging effort was postponed last year, but is being revived by the end of the month. The initial appropriation from Congress was $10 million to perform the project, but some funds were used for unsuccessful design and bidding efforts. The use of the Taylor Creek DMMA project is being considered for non-beach-compatible material. The New Harbour Pointe Access Corridor project is under design, with permit applications submitted and expected to be issued before the end of the year. The project is expected to be put out to bid in the first quarter of next year, mostly funded by FDOT. Additional requests for funding are being made through Florida Seaport Transportation and Economic Development (FSTED) to counter the balance needed for construction. Also, staff is working with the designers of the regional boat ramp to ensure that all the aesthetics are consistent throughout the corridor into the park. A boat was removed from within the corridor, and the design plans have been provided to landowners to work with a consultant for improvements between their properties. The Master Plan update is being worked on with a steering committee, including the City of Fort Pierce, Planning Department, and the TPO. The update will codify recent purchases and land transactions and provide additional opportunities for landowners, particularly in the center of the project. New modules will expand on those already depicted within the Port and Harbour Pointe Park. Mr. Revord discusses the potential for Space Florida to use Harbor Point for space industry operations. The draw for Space Florida is the ability to park fleets in the port and integrate with current maintenance, repair, and overhaul operations. A war study is being performed by Space Florida to ensure it has the assets needed while scaling operations in the space industry. The Harbor Point Regional Boat Ramp is on track, with 30% design plans in progress. The project includes a boat ramp and dredging design, restrooms, and park aesthetics, with the tourism department, and all the design criteria needed for the multipurpose staging and commercial waterfront area. Staff have worked with local contractors to confirm the requirements for the space, ensuring our artificial reef program and future contractors can use this site to benefit the marine environment. Also, funding has just received approval from the FPRA to distribute half a million

BOCC Informal Meeting Tuesday, December 9, 2025 9:00 AM 4 | P a g e dollars towards the design effort, in addition to other funding sources, to ensure the project is completed. The Terminal Improvements Paving and Drainage (Area 1) Derecktor improvements project is making good progress, with an amended and restated grant agreement having been signed. The permit application for the project has been submitted, and the design is being worked on. The Brownfield efforts are in the works, and they will advise on soil management and dewatering efforts on the project, which are the last requirements that will have to be included in the bid package in the first quarter of 2026. This project will redo the paving and grading on half the terminal to double vessel capacity on the south side, improving the property and allowing the site to better market. The Regional Stormwater Management Facility/TPO project updates include the purchase of land west of the US 1 FEC corridor and pre-design work. The new roadway design for Avenue M will include provisions for stormwater movement to the west. Conceptual designs for the regional stormwater project are expected by the first quarter of next year, with a consultant to be hired to design the facility. There is $300,000 in funding from FSTED pending execution to offset the cost of the design effort. There is ongoing coordination with the City of Fort Pierce. The TPO SunTrail elements include pedestrian connection and vehicular movements at US-1/Avenue O; connecting Harbour Pointe Park/Lincoln Park/Port. The Museum Pointe Park Redevelopment project is now out to bid. WJ Architects has been selected by the RFQ for qualifications for the development project. The project is being phased into two phases: pre-designed conceptual and detailed design, and permitting. The project will provide two options for each project element, one on a higher level and one on a more budgeted level. The preferred conceptual and combination will be incorporated into the design and permitting effort, with plans to be completed at 30%. The Anchoring Limitation Areas (ALA) project had a hiccup due to the government shutdown, but it is now moving forward, and three of the four permits have been secured. Meetings with Law Enforcement and the City Marina have been held to ensure enforcement of the anchoring limitation areas. A new website has been created with QR codes that will be provided on index cards. When the area is policed, the code will allow the individual to proceed directly to the area to identify the geo-reference, all pump- out facilities, and all Marina elements. Throughout the past year, staff have worked with the FWC, the Sheriff's Office, and the City Marina on the Derelict Vessel/VTIP Program. The port has removed 18 derelict vessels in the last year, with only two remaining, one for returning compliance and one on administrative hold. Only $24,000 was spent to remove all the vessels, which came from registration fees. Commissioner Leet inquired about the interest received regarding the purchase of the Belle Property. In response, Mr. Revord advised that the port has received interest from various companies regarding the property, but no deals have been finalized. The original master plan includes concepts for Harbor Point, the port terminal, and the interior, with potential for yacht building and import/export operations. The port is working to ensure the master plan is comprehensive and viable for potential space industry operations. The port is exploring opportunities to get infrastructure in place at minimal cost to support space industry growth. Commissioner Leet inquired about employment with the Derecktor and business in general. In response, Mr. Revord explained the challenges faced at the port, including fewer boats coming in and paying bills regularly, and revenue is being received. The port is participating in improvements and paying consultants for plans. The port is addressing skilled labor force centralization, sand and grit issues, and accommodations for yacht owners. The port is working to develop the mega dock at Museum Point to capture patrons and promote business. The port is also addressing the need for a second side of the

BOCC Informal Meeting Tuesday, December 9, 2025 9:00 AM 5 | P a g e equation for yacht owners, including accommodations and recreational amenities. Mr. Revord also mentioned that the terminal improvement project will pave unpaved sections of the port terminal, making it uniform and consistent with the motorboat hoist. The project will abate issues with sand and grit blowing around during winter. The port is working to ensure the terminal is developed to meet the needs of yacht owners. The port is also working on public outreach and education regarding the South Beach erosion issues. The Taylor Creek Regional Boat Ramp project is moving forward, with 30% plans expected by the first quarter of next year, and the project is on track for a 2027 completion. The project includes a boat ramp and dredging design, restrooms, and park aesthetics. The port is receiving positive feedback and support from the community for its efforts and projects. The Board acknowledged Mr. Revord's hard work and commented on the Port Master Plan, Harbour Point. Also, a suggestion was made to rename the Taylor Creek Regional Boat Ramp. The Board did not have any further questions or comments. No consensus was made; the presentation was for informational purposes. DISCUSSION Chair Fowler raised concerns regarding Blue Origin's request to discharge millions of gallons of rocket wastewater into a stormwater pond and the Indian River Lagoon, potentially affecting local water quality. The wastewater will not be fully cleansed before being released, posing environmental concerns. She expressed the importance of the Board's attention due to the County's efforts and funding for river cleanup. George Landry, County Administrator, suggested that if the Board opposes the discharge, they can collectively draft a letter expressing their stance. The Board has historically used letters to communicate its opinions on such matters. Commissioner Clasby mentioned his involvement in the Indian River Lagoon Council and his willingness to share information with the Board. C. Quasi-Judicial Procedures - ADD ON Katherine Barbieri, Interim County Attorney, provided a brief overview of the County Land Use and Quasi- Judicial proceedings to the Board. Ms. Barbieri explained the difference between legislative and quasi- judicial proceedings, emphasizing that legislative actions involve policy-setting, while quasi-judicial actions involve applying legislative policies. Legislative actions include amending ordinances, land development codes, and adopting changes to comprehensive plans. Quasi-judicial actions include planned development site plan determination, conditional use permits, rezoning specific parcels, code enforcement violations, Code Enforcement Board of adjustments, and appeals of a decision. In 1995, a Resolution (95-236) was adopted to allow County commissioners to communicate with developers and staff before quasi-judicial proceedings, provided they disclose these communications. The due process requirements for quasi- judicial actions include notice and hearings, and the standard of substantial competent evidence. Quasi- judicial decisions must be based on evidence that a reasonable mind could accept as adequate to support the conclusion. Expert opinions, based on education and experience, are considered substantial competent evidence. Factual information from willing witnesses can also be considered substantial

BOCC Informal Meeting Tuesday, December 9, 2025 9:00 AM 6 | P a g e competent evidence. Attorney's argument is not substantial competent evidence. An oral or written ex parte communication or site visit relative to a quasi-judicial proceeding is not presumed prejudicial if the subject of the communication and the identity with whom the communication took place are disclosed and made part of the record before final action on the matter. Non-disclosure of ex parte communications can be an issue, and disclosures are made to ensure transparency. Developers are occasionally allowed to cross-examine witnesses, but this is not common. The proposed procedure includes definitions, general standards, and guidelines for ex parte communications and disclosures. The proposed procedure for quasi- judicial hearings includes disclosures, staff reports, and introductions of evidence. Written communications and responses are also part of the record. Cross-examination of witnesses is possible, and participants can ask about communications. The chair controls the meeting, and time limits are set for presentations and discussions. Staff requested that the Board provide comments and direction for the procedures. Chair Fowler commented on everyone participating in public comment being sworn in. In response, Ms. Barbieri explained that swearing in ensures participants are under oath and could face consequences for untruths. The Board and staff discussed public participation, commissioner recusals, the importance of not biasing oneself before the meeting, formalizing the process, timekeeping, and time limits set by the chair. The Board did not have any further questions or comments. No consensus was made; the presentation was for informational purposes. 4. COMMISSIONER COMMENTS The Board discussed the need for an update on the airport and a visit to a data center to prepare for the upcoming Data Center proposal for the County. They debated whether Board members or staff should visit the data center, emphasizing the importance of objectivity and community feedback. There was a suggestion of a coordinated visit involving multiple commissioners, staff, and a constituent to gather comprehensive information to gather information and provide a report back to the Board. They also discussed travel policies and budget considerations. The meeting concluded with plans to finalize travel arrangements at the next meeting on January 13, 2026, ensuring coordination and credibility in the data center study. 5. ADJOURNMENT With no other information to be brought for consideration before the Board, the meeting was adjourned at 10:14 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. (Full Audio Available Upon Request)