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HomeMy WebLinkAboutBOCC Regular Meeting Minutes 01.13.26 BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS ST. LUCIE COUNTY, FLORIDA Regular Meeting January 13, 2026 Convened: 6:00 PM Adjourned: 6:52 PM 1. CALL TO ORDER The meeting was called to order at 6:00 PM 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, County Attorney George Landry, County Administrator Mayte Santamaria, Deputy County Administrator Erick Gill, Communications Director Barbara Guettler, MSBU Coordinator Benjamin Balcer, Planning & Development Services Director Thad Crowe, Planning & Development Services Senior Planner Kori Benton, Planning & Zoning Manager Sydney Halleran, Agenda Coordinator Vera Smith, Deputy Clerk Recording Secretary 2. INVOCATION The County Administrator led the invocation. 3. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 4. RECESS FOR SPECIAL DISTRICT MEETINGS Special Mosquito Control District Meeting 5. APPROVAL OF AGENDA - ADDITIONS, DELETIONS, REVISIONS A motion was made to approve all additions, deletions, and revisions to the agenda, and it passed unanimously. RESULT: APPROVE MOVER: Commissioner District 5 Cathy Townsend SECONDER: Commissioner District 2 Larry Leet BOCC Regular Meeting Tuesday, January 13, 2026 6:00 PM 2 | Page AYES: Jamie Fowler, Larry Leet, James Clasby, Erin Lowry, Cathy Townsend NAYS: None EXCUSED: None 6. PRESENTATIONS There were no items scheduled. 7. PUBLIC COMMENT (excluding Public Hearing Items) Chair Fowler opened the meeting for public comment at this time. The following people addressed the Board: • Chris Nard of Fortify Financial, a PACE financer operating in Florida. He expressed concerns regarding the 2023 assessments conducted in St Lucie County under a judicial bond validation granted to the Florida PACE funding agency. He discussed the County and the Tax Collector's suit to overturn the judicial bond validation, which was dismissed in March 2024, but the assessments were still not placed on the tax roll. The disruption caused homeowners to not pay their assessments. 185 assessments are due to be on the tax roll. He advised that if the assessments are not placed on the tax roll by March, 50% of homeowners could be three payments behind, affecting their ability to refinance or sell their properties due to liens. Mr. Nard stressed the need for the assessments to be placed on the tax roll to allow homeowners to start making payments and avoid further financial hardship. • David Zamora, also from Fortify Financial, discussed the passage of Senate Bill (SB) 770, which requires inter-local agreements between PACE Financiers and Counties. He urged the Board/Tax Collector to work together to resolve the issue quickly, as taxes are due in March. With no one else wishing to address the Board, Chair Fowler closed public comment. In response to public comment, Commissioner Townsend suggested discussing the PACE concerns in an informal meeting in February. In response, George Landry, County Administrator, explained the limited role of the Board. He advised that staff would coordinate a meeting in February and invite the Tax Collector and their attorney to discuss the matter in detail. 8. PROCLAMATIONS APPROVAL There were no items scheduled. 9. APPROVAL OF MINUTES A motion was made to approve all minute sets, and it passed unanimously. RESULT: APPROVE MOVER: Commissioner District 5 Cathy Townsend SECONDER: Commissioner District 2 Larry Leet AYES: Jamie Fowler, Larry Leet, James Clasby, Erin Lowry, Cathy Townsend NAYS: None EXCUSED: None BOCC Regular Meeting Tuesday, January 13, 2026 6:00 PM 3 | Page A. Board of County Commissioners minutes for the BOCC Regular Meeting of December 2, 2025. B. Board of County Commissioners minutes for the BOCC Informal Meeting of December 9, 2025. C. Board of County Commissioners minutes for the BOCC Regular Meeting of December 9, 2025. 10. CONSENT AGENDA A motion was made to adopt the consent agenda, and it passed unanimously. RESULT: APPROVE MOVER: Commissioner District 5 Cathy Townsend SECONDER: Commissioner District 1 James Clasby AYES: Jamie Fowler, Larry Leet, James Clasby, Erin Lowry, Cathy Townsend NAYS: None EXCUSED: None Commissioner Townsend pulled item 10. E.2 Approval of Amendment No. 1 to Agreement with Treasure Coast Homeless Services Council, Inc. for Housing Hub Operations and item 10. I.4. Request for Proposal (RFP) No. 25-092 - IV Therapy and Medical Massage Services for separate discussion only. A. WARRANTS 1. Warrant Lists 10 - 14 Adopted by Consent Vote B. ADMINISTRATION 1. Commissioner Lowry's Appointment to the Tourist Development Council Staff recommended that the Board ratify Commissioner Lowry's appointment of Ronnie Nichols to the Tourist Development Council. Adopted by Consent Vote 2. Commissioner Townsend's Appointment to the Library Advisory Board Staff recommended that the Board vote to ratify the appointment of Paul Zeller as Commissioner Townsend's representative on the Library Advisory Board. Adopted by Consent Vote 3. Commissioner Fowler's Appointment to the Library Advisory Board Staff recommended that the Board vote to ratify the appointment of Sue Buckland as Commissioner Fowler's representative on the Library Advisory Board. BOCC Regular Meeting Tuesday, January 13, 2026 6:00 PM 4 | Page Adopted by Consent Vote 4. Resolution 2026-4 Authorizing a Joint Meeting with the City of Port St. Lucie and Acceptance of the Agenda Staff recommended that the Board adopt Resolution No. 2026-4 and approve the proposed Agenda. Adopted by Consent Vote C. AIRPORT 1. Sublease Agreement between Fort Pierce FBO, d/b/a APP Jet Center, and Chip's Custom Painting for Expansion of an Existing Ground Lease for Property Located at the Treasure Coast International Airport Staff recommended Board approval of the ground sublease and authorizes the Chair to sign documents as approved by the County Attorney. Adopted by Consent Vote 2. Lease Agreement between St. Lucie County and Ident Aviation, LLC for Property Located at Treasure Coast International Airport to be Developed for Aeronautical Purposes - ITEM PULLED PRIOR TO MEETING 3. Lease Agreement between St. Lucie County and Treasure Coast Jet Center, Inc. for Property Located at Treasure Coast International Airport to be Developed for Aeronautical Purposes - ITEM PULLED PRIOR TO MEETING 4. Fort Pierce FBO LLC Sublease to Ottawa Airport Inc. Staff recommended Board approval of the ground sublease and authorizes the Chair to sign documents as approved by the County Attorney. Adopted by Consent Vote 5. Fort Pierce FBO, LLC (APP) sublease to BDCC Properties, LLC Staff recommended Board approval of the ground sublease and authorizes the Chair to sign documents as reviewed by the County Attorney. Adopted by Consent Vote 6. AECOM C20-03-341 Work Authorization No. 03 - 4th Amendment Reconfigure Taxiways C8 and B Additional Resident Project Representative (RPR) Services in the Amount of $48,000.00 BOCC Regular Meeting Tuesday, January 13, 2026 6:00 PM 5 | Page Staff recommended Board approval of AECOM Work Authorization 3 - 4th Amendment $48,000.00 Additional Resident Project Representative (RPR) Services to Reconfigure Taxiways C8 and B and Related Work, and authorization for the Chair to sign documents as approved by the County Attorney. This initiative is in accordance with Strategic Plan Policy AO 2.4.3. Adopted by Consent Vote 7. Award of Bid No. 25-095 Airport Passenger Walkway Covering (Canopy) to A. Thomas Construction, Inc. $439,000.00 Staff recommended approval of Bid No. 25-095 to A. Thomas Construction Inc. $439,000.00, and permission for the Chair to sign documents as approved by the County Attorney. This initiative is in accordance with Strategic Plan Policy AO 2.4.3. Adopted by Consent Vote D. COUNTY ATTORNEY 1. Jail Diversion Contract with New Horizons of the Treasure Coast for FY25-26 Staff recommended that the Board deem New Horizons as the provider in accordance with Florida Statutes 287.057(3)(e)(6) and renew the contract with New Horizons for the wrap- around services that are needed for jail diversion clients to begin October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2026, with approval of the contract as drafted by the County Attorney's Office. Adopted by Consent Vote 2. Mental Health Court Manager Contract with New Horizons of the Treasure Coast for Mental Health Court FY25-26 Staff recommended the Board deem New Horizons as the provider in accordance with F.S. 287.057(3)(e)(6) and renew the contract with New Horizons of the Treasure Coast, Inc. for staffing the Mental Health Court Manager positions that work in the Mental Health Court, and authorize the Chair to sign the contract as drafted by the County Attorney's Office. The contract will continue services for the next fiscal year, October 1, 2025 - September 30, 2026. Adopted by Consent Vote 3. Nineteenth Judicial Circuit C24-01-074 - 1st Amendment to Contractual Services Agreement for Drug Testing Services in Problem-Solving Courts Staff recommended that the Board approve the first amendment to the contractual services agreement and authorize the Chair to sign the agreement as prepared by the County Attorney's Office. Adopted by Consent Vote E. COMMUNITY SERVICES BOCC Regular Meeting Tuesday, January 13, 2026 6:00 PM 6 | Page 1. Interlocal Funding Agreement with the City of Fort Pierce for Fiscal Year 2026 Homeless Services Staff recommended Board approval of the interlocal agreement between St. Lucie County and the City of Fort Pierce, and authorization for the Chair to sign documents as approved by the County Attorney. Adopted by Consent Vote 2. Approval of Amendment No. 1 to Agreement with Treasure Coast Homeless Services Council, Inc. for Housing Hub Operations Staff recommended Board approval of Amendment No. 1 to the agreement between St. Lucie County and Treasure Coast Homeless Services Council, Inc., and authorization for the Chair to sign documents as approved by the County Attorney. Adopted by Consent Vote Commissioner Townsend pulled for a separate comment and questioned the process for re- bidding the Treasure Coast Homeless Hubs project, suggesting that there might be more interest now that more people are aware of it. She suggested, rather than awarding the item, pulling the item for further discussion and re-bidding. In response, Mr. Landry clarified that the project is not related to the homeless shelter remodel and that the discussion is scheduled for a later date, and apologized for any confusion. 3. Madison Cay Loan Assumption and Approval of Related Documents Staff recommended that the Board authorize the Chair to execute documents, subject to legal form and correctness as approved by the County Attorney. Adopted by Consent Vote 4. FY 2025 HOME Investment Partnerships Program Agreement - Requesting Board Approval to Enter into a Funding Agreement with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) in the Amount of $923,988.83 Staff recommended that the Board approve the Fiscal Year 2025 HOME Investment Partnerships Program Federal Award Agreement with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development in the amount of $923,988.83, and authorize the Chair to execute documents as approved by the County Attorney. Adopted by Consent Vote F. ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES 1. SFWMD Interlocal Agreement for Recreational Trails Grant Staff recommended Board approval of the agreement, and authorization for the Chair to sign BOCC Regular Meeting Tuesday, January 13, 2026 6:00 PM 7 | Page documents as approved by the County Attorney in accordance with Strategic Plan Policy TC 3.3.2. Adopted by Consent Vote G. FACILITIES 1. Award Replacement of Cooling Tower at the County Jail - $991,378.00 Staff recommended Board approval to award the replacement of the Cooling Tower at the County Jail to Trane by awarding equipment purchase and installation to Trane per the listed Omnia and US Communities Contracts totaling $991,378 ($300,505 for Equipment and $690,873 for Installation), and authorize the Chair to sign the documents as prepared and approved by the County Attorney. Adopted by Consent Vote 2. Trane R’newal Service Program for Chiller #2 at the St. Lucie County Administration Building - $128,075.00 Staff recommended that the Board approve Trane - quote #H4-125310-25046 (OMNIA Racine #3341), for the R’newal RTHD Chiller #2 at the St. Lucie County Administration Building, in the amount of $128,075.00, and authorize the Chair to sign the contract as approved by the County Attorney. Adopted by Consent Vote 3. St. Lucie County Jail 5-year HVAC Service Agreement - $260,312.00 Staff recommended Board approval to enter into a five (5) year contract with Trane U.S. Inc. for the maintenance of the Chillers at the St. Lucie County Jail, and authorize the Chair to sign documents as approved by the County Attorney. Adopted by Consent Vote 4. Milner Health Department Exterior Water Proofing and Painting - $99,365.00 Staff recommended Board approval to proceed with the exterior painting and waterproofing of the entire building, along with the structural repairs as outlined in Garland Proposal # 25-FL- 250934 via US Communities Contract MICPA # PW1925 General Contractor CGC1533467 in the amount of $99,365.00, and authorize the Chair to sign the agreement as approved by the County Attorney. Adopted by Consent Vote H. INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY 1. Compuquip Service Agreement C22-02-091 Second Amendment BOCC Regular Meeting Tuesday, January 13, 2026 6:00 PM 8 | Page Staff recommended Board approval of the second amendment to agreement C22-02-091 with Compuquip Technologies for one year of firewall gateway support in the amount of $136,614.99 and authorization for the Chair to sign documents as approved by the County Attorney. Adopted by Consent Vote I. OFFICE OF MANAGEMENT & BUDGET 1. Request for Qualifications (RFQ) No. 25-043 - Construction Manager at Risk for the New Animal Safety Facility Staff recommended Board approval of the short-listed contractors for RFQ No. 25-043 and permission to: • Conduct contract negotiations with the highest-ranked contractor, Paul Jacquin and Sons Construction. • If negotiations are successful, award the contract to the highest ranked contractor and authorization for the Chair to sign the documents as prepared by the County Attorney. Adopted by Consent Vote 2. Request for Proposal (RFP) No. 25-084 - Treasure Coast HOME Consortium Notice of Funding Availability & Certification Packet for Community Housing Development Organizations Staff recommended Board approval of the short-listed firms for RFP No. 25-084 and permission to: • Conduct contract negotiations with the highest-ranked short-listed firm, St Lucie Habitat for Humanity CHDO. • If negotiations are successful, award the contract to the successful short-listed firm and authorization for the Chair to sign the documents as prepared by the County Attorney in accordance with Strategic Plan TC 3.3. Adopted by Consent Vote 3. Request for Proposal (RFP) No. 25-086 - Federal Lobbyist Services Staff recommended Board approval of the short-listed firms for Federal Lobbyist Services and permission to: • Conduct contract negotiations with the two highest-ranked short-listed firms for Thorn Run Partners and GrayRobinson, P.A. • If negotiations are successful, award contract to the successful short-listed firm(s) and authorize the Chair to sign the documents as prepared by the County Attorney. Adopted by Consent Vote 4. Request for Proposal (RFP) No. 25-092 - IV Therapy and Medical Massage Services BOCC Regular Meeting Tuesday, January 13, 2026 6:00 PM 9 | Page Staff recommended Board approval of the Committee’s recommendation and permission to: • Conduct contract negotiations with the highest-ranked provider, Regenerative Medical Group Florida (RMG). • If negotiations are successful, award the contract to the successful provider and authorize the Chair to sign the documents as prepared by the County Attorney. • If staff is unable to negotiate a satisfactory contract with the highest-ranked proposer, negotiations with that firm shall be terminated, and staff shall attempt to negotiate a contract with the next highest-ranked firm. Adopted by Consent Vote Commissioner Townsend pulled the item for comment, requesting that the proposal be reset to a 1-year contract so that the contractor can be held accountable and re-evaluated after a year to ensure funds are allocated effectively. She stated that if the contract is for more than 1 year, she would not be in favor of approval. In response, Mr. Landry clarified that the proposed item intends to negotiate the contract and bring it back for final approval, after speaking with each commissioner individually, ensuring all concerns are addressed before engaging with the vendor. The current status is permission to negotiate, not final approval, and staff are requesting support for moving forward with the negotiations. Commissioner Lowry and Commissioner Clasby also commented on the request for one-year contracts and the negotiations before final approval. 5. Fixed Asset Inventory - Property Record Removal Staff recommended Board authorization to remove fixed assets as reflected on the attached property inventory lists from the capital asset inventories of St. Lucie County Board of County Commissioners, St. Lucie County Tax Collector, and St. Lucie County Property Appraiser. Adopted by Consent Vote J. PARKS & RECREATION 1. 11th Annual Night to Shine Prom - Havert L. Fenn Center Fee Waiver of $6,937.50 Staff recommended Board approval to waive the facility fee of $6,937.50 as outlined in this agenda memorandum and authorization for the Chair to sign documents as approved by the County Attorney. Adopted by Consent Vote 2. 11th Annual Fort Pierce Job Fair - Havert L. Fenn Center Fee Waiver of $2,587.50 Staff recommended Board approval to waive the facility use fee of $2,587.50 as outlined in this agenda memorandum and authorization for the Chair to sign documents as approved by the BOCC Regular Meeting Tuesday, January 13, 2026 6:00 PM 10 | Page County Attorney. Adopted by Consent Vote 3. River Park Marina New Playground Expansion Project - $393,599.38 Staff recommended that the Board approve the River Park Marina Playground Improvement Project budget of $393,599.38 to purchase a new playground from Top Line Recreation Omnia Contract #R220201 (to include the removal of the existing old playground and site preparation for the new playground) and authorize the Chair to sign the documents as prepared and approved by the County Attorney. Adopted by Consent Vote K. PROPERTY ACQUISITIONS 1. Road Impact Fee Credit Agreement - Tiki Holdings, LLC - Parcel ID 2301-231-0001-000-7 Staff recommended that the Board approve the Road Impact Fee Credit Agreement with Tiki Holdings, LLC, in a manner or form acceptable to the County Attorney, authorize the Chair to sign the agreement and record the agreement in the public records of St. Lucie County, Florida, subject to clear title, an updated Phase I Environmental Site Assessment, and recordation of the attached Special Warranty Deed. Adopted by Consent Vote 2. Road Impact Fee Credit Agreement - JFS Embreeville Associates, LLC - Parcel ID 2301-122-0001- 000-2 Staff recommended that the Board approve the Road Impact Fee Credit Agreement with JFS Embreeville Associates, LLC., in a manner or form acceptable to the County Attorney, authorize the Chair to sign the agreement and record the agreement in the public records of St. Lucie County, Florida, subject to clear title, an updated Phase I Environmental Site Assessment, and recordation of the attached Special Warranty Deed. Adopted by Consent Vote 3. Road Impact Fee Credit Agreement - Whalou Properties LLC - Parcel IDs 2301-333-0001-000-0 and 2301-313-0001-000-8 Staff recommended that the Board approve the Road Impact Fee Credit Agreement with Whalou Properties LLC, in a manner or form acceptable to the County Attorney, authorize the Chair to sign the agreement and record the agreement in the public records of St. Lucie County, Florida, subject to clear title, an updated Phase I Environmental Site Assessment, and recordation of the attached Special Warranty Deed. Adopted by Consent Vote BOCC Regular Meeting Tuesday, January 13, 2026 6:00 PM 11 | Page 4. Resolution No. 2026-007 - Right-of-Way Donation - 47' of Right-of-Way along Edwards Road and a 25' x 25' Corner Clip at the Southeast Corner of S. Jenkins Road and Edwards Road from TEG Mariner Cove LLC - Viva East - Parcel ID 2430-231-0001-000-4 Staff recommended that the Board accept the Special Warranty Deed from TEG Mariner Cove, LLC, authorize the Chair to sign the resolution, and direct staff to proceed with the closing and record the documents in the public records of St. Lucie County, Florida. Adopted by Consent Vote 5. Resolution No. 2026-010 - Right-of-Way Donation - 40' of Right-of-Way along S. Jenkins Road from Viva Communities at Treasure Coast West LLC - Viva West - Parcel ID 2325-111-0001-000-2 Staff recommended that the Board accept the Special Warranty Deed from Viva Communities at Treasure Coast West LLC, authorize the Chair to sign the resolution, and direct staff to proceed with the closing and record the documents in the public records of St. Lucie County, Florida. Adopted by Consent Vote L. PUBLIC UTILITIES 1. Bid No. 26-005 Baler Repair & Installation Staff recommended Board Approval of RFP-26-005 to Crigler and MP North America Services, LLC, and authorization for the Chair to sign the contracts as approved by the County Attorney. Adopted by Consent Vote 2. Bid No. 26-006 Vac-Con Truck and Jetting Services Staff recommended Board Approval of RFP-26-006 to National Water Main Cleaning Company and award a contingent contract, with no guaranteed business to GPH Services and Shenandoah General Construction, LLC, and authorize for the Chair to sign the contracts as approved by the County Attorney. Adopted by Consent Vote M. PUBLIC WORKS 1. Johnston Road at Ft. Pierce Farms Water Control District (FPFWCD) C-1 & C-15 Emergency Culvert Repairs - THIS PROJECT IS FUNDED BY THE INFRASTRUCTURE SALES TAX Staff recommended after-the-fact Board approval and ratification of Emergency Contract #C25- 12-1099 with Shenandoah, Inc. for the repair of the culvert pipes and pavement restoration in the amount of $570,113.50, and authorize the Chair to sign documents approved by the County Attorney in accordance with Strategic Plan Policy QI 3.1.1. Adopted by Consent Vote BOCC Regular Meeting Tuesday, January 13, 2026 6:00 PM 12 | Page Commissioner Townsend acknowledged this regarding the infrastructure sales tax for the Johnston Road FPFWCD, specifically mentioning the emergency culvert repair needed close to the winery. The culvert replacement is expected to be completed by mid-February, but residents should be informed about the upcoming closure of the box culvert north of Meadow Wood. The closure will affect traffic, particularly those near the winery, but residents in Meadow Wood will be inconvenienced for a few weeks. 2. Indrio - Savannah's Wet Pond - Final Acceptance - THIS ITEM IS RELATED TO THE AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN Staff recommended the Board's final acceptance of the Indrio - Savannahs Wet Pond Project in accordance with Strategic Plan Policy QI 3.1.1. Adopted by Consent Vote Commissioner Townsend acknowledged this item. N. TOURISM & VENUES 1. Tourist Development Council Funding for Airport Markings Project Staff recommended Board approval to transfer funds in the amount of $800,000.00 from the 33% of the 5th-cent tourist development tax for the Treasure Coast International Airport's runway markings project. This is in accordance with Strategic Plan TC 3.3.3. Adopted by Consent Vote O. TRANSIT 1. Florida Commission for the Transportation Disadvantaged (FCTD) - FY 2025-26 Innovative Service Development Grant Award (dialysis after-hours transportation) - Resolution and Grant Acceptance Staff recommended Board acceptance of the state fiscal year 25/26 Innovative Service Development Grant and authorization for the chair to sign documents as approved by the County Attorney. Adopted by Consent Vote Discussion Chair Fowler expressed gratitude for the staff’s hard work, dedication, and passion, acknowledging the challenges they face. She clarified that the push for improvement should be seen as a sign of confidence, not disappointment or negativity, and is based on the belief that the team can achieve more. She expressed confidence in the team's potential to lead, innovate, and serve the community at the highest level, aiming for the strongest year yet. Chair Fowler outlined the goal for 2026 as a year of challenge and continuous improvement, pushing for higher standards and better performance. BOCC Regular Meeting Tuesday, January 13, 2026 6:00 PM 13 | Page 11. PUBLIC HEARINGS A. PUBLIC WORKS 1. Culvert 2026-01 Municipal Services Benefit Unit (MSBU) - Assessment Resolution Barbara Guettler, MSBU Coordinator, presented this item to the Board. The Board created the culvert assistance program to provide property owners with the option to fund the replacement of failed culverts through non-ad valorem assessments. The proposed resolution is the assessment resolution as required by the County ordinance. The purpose of the resolution relates to the imposition and collection of special assessments to fund stormwater culvert improvements within the MSBU, determine that real property therein will be specially benefitted, establish the method of assessing the cost of the improvements, and approve the assessment roll. Staff recommended Board approval of Resolution No. 2026-3, the Culvert 2026-01 MSBU Final Assessment Resolution, and authorization for the Chair to sign documents as approved by the County Attorney, in accordance with Strategic Plan Policy QI 3.1.3. Chair Fowler opened the hearing for public comment at this time. With no one wishing to address the Board, Chair Fowler closed the public hearing. The Board did not have any questions or comments on this matter. A motion was made to approve the staff recommendation, and it passed unanimously. RESULT: APPROVE MOVER: Commissioner District 5 Cathy Townsend SECONDER: Commissioner District 2 Larry Leet AYES: Jamie Fowler, Larry Leet, James Clasby, Erin Lowry, Cathy Townsend NAYS: None EXCUSED: None B. PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT SERVICES 1. Oldcastle Conditional Use Permit Major Adjustment - THIS ITEM IS QUASI-JUDICIAL This public hearing was Quasi-Judicial, and the commissioners made the following disclosures regarding this item: Chair Jamie Fowler - Spoke with staff regarding the general overview of the project. Commissioner Larry Leet- Spoke with staff regarding the overview of the project. Commissioner James Clasby - Spoke with staff regarding the application and general overview. Commissioner Erin Lowry - Spoke with staff regarding the addition of two new towers and building modifications. Commissioner Cathy Townsend - Spoke with staff and the applicant. BOCC Regular Meeting Tuesday, January 13, 2026 6:00 PM 14 | Page Thad Crowe, Senior Planner, and Kori Benton, Planning Manager of Planning & Development Services, presented this item to the Board—the proposed major adjustment to the existing Oldcastle Conditional Use Permit (CUP). The established facility is designated as a St. Lucie County Targeted Industry, producing goods sold both locally and internationally. Public notice requirements were followed through a sign, newspaper publication, and informational mail to neighbors within 500 feet of the property. There were 14 mailers sent to neighbors along with the conditional use response forms, and no responses were received. A community meeting was held on December 9, 2025, and only one nearby property owner attended to express support for the project. The location of the facility is in the Midway Industrial Park, north of Midway Road and east of Glaze Cut Off Road. The aerial map and future land use map show the area as predominantly industrial, with excellent access and location promoting development. The zoning is industrial- heavy, consistent with the surrounding industrial uses. The original conditional use permit, for manufacturing concrete products, was issued in 1999. The approval included manufacturing for pavers, architectural stone, masonry units (blocks), and sand/aggregate for residential and commercial construction. The plant utilizes heavy machinery to mix and form products. The existing building is 40,165 square feet, with the applicant requesting that the proposed additions would add 12,030 square feet, exceeding 25% of the bulk standard, triggering a major conditional use. The operational flow includes truckloads of raw materials (aggregates, sand, gravel) delivered to the site. The aggregates will be conveyed into overhead storage bins located north of the towers. The Cement will be pneumatically offloaded into silos/towers. The raw materials will be batched/combined and conveyed to the mixer tower. The batched concrete will be delivered to the block machine in the existing building via conveyor belt and formed into molds. The wet concrete blocks will be conveyed to curing blocks and chipped/shaped in the curing building. Lastly, the aggregates are bagged, block palletized, and moved to the outdoor storage yard for finished products. Staff indicated that the proposed item is consistent with the comprehensive plan and the future land use for industrial purposes. This is important for permitting heavy industrial activities in the County to attract businesses and create employment opportunities. The site is buffered by over 1,000 feet from nearby residential areas, minimizing noise impacts. The comprehensive plan promotes targeted industries, consistent with the land development code and the Industrial Heavy (IH) Zoning District. The height limit is set at 80 feet, and the towers will be just under that limit, making it permissible. The site will not be significantly changed, except for the additions to the building, and is subject to the noise ordinance. The public facilities available include paved roads, police and fire protection, solid waste pickup, stormwater management, and central water and sewer. No additional trips are anticipated, and the site is served by Fire Station # 6, east on Midway Road. The landscape plan was recreated by the applicant, meeting buffer requirements with existing trees. The site will remove exotic plants and comply with the noise ordinance, exterior lighting shielding, and invasive plant eradication before development. Staff recommended approval of the CUP major adjustment, subject to the following conditions: 1. Site improvements shall be in keeping with the site plan, with a revised date of December 18, 2025, and the landscape plan, with a revised date of October 27, 2025. 2. The Conditional Use Permit shall continue to comply with the St. Lucie County noise ordinance. BOCC Regular Meeting Tuesday, January 13, 2026 6:00 PM 15 | Page 3. Exterior lighting to be downcast & shielded to minimize light trespass. 4. Prior to Certificate of Occupancy (CO) issuance, Category I-listed invasive plants are to be eradicated from the site. 5. Prior to commencement of development: a. Vegetation removal permit or exemption shall be issued by ERD; and b. An updated listed species surveys shall be provided, and any listed species found shall require appropriate permits from state and federal agencies. Chair Fowler opened the hearing for public comment at this time. With no one wishing to address the Board, Chair Fowler closed the public hearing. Commissioner Clasby commented on the future project of the Jenkins road extension, which will connect the area and become a major Northwest connecting roadway in St. Lucie County. The Board did not have any further questions or comments on this matter. A motion was made to approve the staff recommendation, and it passed unanimously. RESULT: APPROVE MOVER: Commissioner District 5 Cathy Townsend SECONDER: Commissioner District 2 Larry Leet AYES: Jamie Fowler, Larry Leet, James Clasby, Erin Lowry, Cathy Townsend NAYS: None EXCUSED: None 2. Fort Pierce Commerce Center - Transmittal of Future Land Use Map Amendment Thad Crowe, Senior Planner, and Kori Benton, Planning Manager of Planning and Development Services, presented this item to the Board regarding the proposed transmittal hearing for the Future Land Use Map (FLUM) amendment, Planned Non-Residential Development (PNRD) rezoning, and a preliminary site plan on behalf of the property owner, Fort Pierce Commerce Center, LLC. The proposal is for the map amendment to be sent for review by state and regional agencies. Public notice requirements were followed through a sign, newspaper publication, and informational mail to neighbors within 500 feet of the property. The map amendment area is located on South Kings Highway, west of I-95 and Copenhaver Road, and involves a transition from industrial to commercial development. Staff noted the need for careful design and planning due to the proximity of existing residential communities to the north, east, and south. Also, the lactide parcel, partially surrounded by the property, is not an issue for land use amendment, and the applicant has worked with the property owner to provide access. The future land use map shows a mix of Mixed-Use development (MXD) to the north, Commercial (COM) use on the site, and Residential Urban (RU) use to the east and south. The MXD proposes a holistic, unified land use plan that protects surrounding residences while providing a cohesive plan for the property. The MXD District would be restricted to Industrial (IND) Land Use, requiring a PNRD with appropriate open space and buffers adjacent to residential uses and BOCC Regular Meeting Tuesday, January 13, 2026 6:00 PM 16 | Page environmental conditions. Access would be limited to Kings Highway, with the east portion dedicated to open space and buffering. The zoning map shows the transition of the area from former Agricultural – 1 (AG-1) to a commerce center area; the AG-1 and Agricultural Residential– 1 (AR-1) zoning are being converted over time to Commercial Industrial. The context map shows the development epicenter for development, including warehouses, commerce parks, Treasure Coast Education, Research and Development Authority (TCERDA) Research Park, and South Florida Logistics Center, as well as several large projects. The area has excellent transportation and access, making it suitable for different types of transitions. Consistent with the comprehensive plan, the proposed MXD FLU provides flexibility for use, and the PNRD process offers safeguards for neighbors and environmental preservation. The future land use map amendment would establish a conservation easement on the preserve, with strict policies for such land use amendments. The property must be adjacent to or not more than a quarter mile from similar future land use and have utility services available, which the proposed property will. The ongoing growth and support from the future land use element for more jobs and urban services are available. The property is suitable for non-residential development, with safeguards provided through the PNRD, and compatibility concerns were addressed with the preserve. The trip generation averages 1,300 daily trips, including 142 AM peak hour trips and 152 PM peak hour trips. The traffic impact report concludes that all existing and future roadway intersections will operate at an acceptable Level of Service (LOS), with good access control along Kings Highway. The Planning and Zoning Commission held a hearing in December and unanimously recommended approval. Staff recommended the Board evaluate the proposed Future Land Use Map Amendment and approve transmittal to State and Corresponding Review Agencies with the presented subarea policies: • The Specific Use Area within this Low Intensity Mixed Use Activity Area is restricted in use to the equivalent of the IND (Industrial) Future Land Use designation as described in the Future Land Use Element, unless otherwise amended through the Comprehensive Plan Amendment process. • Development of this site shall be approved through the Planned Non-Residential Development process and shall include appropriate open space and buffers adjacent to residential uses and environmental conditions. • Access to the development shall be provided from the west via Kings Highway. Leslie Olson, of District Planning Group, representing the applicant Fort Pierce Commerce Center LLC, addressed the Board regarding the proposed transmittal. Ms. Olson reiterated portions of staffs presentation with the addition overview of the site. She explained that the site is within the King's Highway jobs corridor study area, which the Economic Development Council (EDC) is currently conducting, and collaborating with the County, the City of Fort Pierce, and Fort Pierce Utility Authority (FPUA). The study aims to develop a conservative planning approach for the corridor, envisioning it to be similar to Southern Groves in the future. This includes focusing on the quality of development and the types of jobs created, bringing them to the unincorporated areas of the County. The site is currently assigned a mix of Commercial and Residential Urban Future Land Use. The initial neighborhood meeting with the Copenhaver neighborhood feedback BOCC Regular Meeting Tuesday, January 13, 2026 6:00 PM 17 | Page preferred industrial development over residential. The applicant agreed to preserve wetlands and create a conservation easement, which was well-received by the neighborhood. The neighborhood preferred industrial development over residential, leading to the preservation of wetlands and forested uplands. The area will be included in the comprehensive plan as open space and buffering. Chair Fowler opened the hearing for public comment at this time. With no one wishing to address the Board, Chair Fowler closed the public hearing. Commissioner Clasby mentioned reaching out to property owners, who were generally fine with the plan but had some confusion about the future land use map. He suggested showing the retention pond as open space for transparency. In response, Ms. Olson advised that, at the will of the Board, the applicant could agree to the request. After the transmittal to the state, the PNRD will come back before the Board, and the plan is already designed. The suggested area is already being cleared and developed as open space, and it is clear in the plan that the area is not to be touched. Ms. Olson suggested adding a sub-area policy to clarify the non-development area if the proposed PRND is not approved. A policy can be drafted if staff are comfortable with the change. In response, Mr. Benton agreed with the guidance of the Board. The Board did not have any further questions or comments on this matter. A motion was made to approve staff recommendations, and it passed unanimously. RESULT: APPROVE - TRANSMITTAL TO THE STATE AND CORRESPONDING AGENCIES FOR REVIEW MOVER: Commissioner District 5 Cathy Townsend SECONDER: Commissioner District 1 James Clasby AYES: Jamie Fowler, Larry Leet, James Clasby, Erin Lowry, Cathy Townsend NAYS: None EXCUSED: None 12. REGULAR AGENDA There were no items scheduled. 13. COMMISSIONER COMMENTS The Board mentioned their anticipation for the election results for the City of Fort Pierce Commissioner and their willingness to work with the winning candidate to move the city forward. They also discussed the importance of unity between cities such as Port St. Lucie and Fort Pierce. The newly renovated restaurant at the airport was highlighted. Commissioner Clasby challenged the staff and administration to produce a rollback rate budget, which would be funded only by the rollback rate, and suggested that all governments should do the same. 14. UPCOMING MEETINGS BOCC Regular Meeting Tuesday, January 13, 2026 6:00 PM 18 | Page A. The Board of County Commissioners will hold a Regular meeting on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at 6 pm in the Commission Chambers of the Roger Poitras Administration Annex located at 2300 Virginia Avenue, Fort Pierce, FL. B. The Board of County Commissioners will hold a Regular meeting on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at 6 pm in the Commission Chambers of the Roger Poitras Administration Annex located at 2300 Virginia Avenue, Fort Pierce, FL. 15. ANNOUNCEMENTS A. There’s no better way to get your children outside and build memories together in the great outdoors than Wild Together at the Oxbow Eco-Center, running now through May. This experiential family learning series on nature, adventure, and survival skills takes place on select Saturdays from 9 a.m. to noon. The series explores practical tips and tricks for families to learn together as they feel more confident and connected to the outdoors. Designed for ages 8 to 13 and their guardians, the cost is $15 per person. For additional information, visit: www.oxboweco.com. B. In conjunction with the Florida Section American Water Works Association (FSAWWA), St. Lucie County’s Public Utilities Department is hosting a “Drop Savers” poster contest for all St. Lucie County students, including public, charter, and homeschool students. The contest is designed to teach elementary-aged school children and remind middle and high school-aged teens about the importance of water conservation. Entries are due on Friday, Feb. 27. Posters may be dropped off at the St. Lucie County Public Utilities Department, located at 2300 Virginia Ave. Fort Pierce or scheduled for pick-up by contacting St. Lucie County Environmental Education and Outreach Manager Jenny Tomes at 772-782-4722. 16. MOTION TO ADJOURN With no other information to be brought for consideration before the Board, the meeting was adjourned at 6:52 PM. 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.