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HomeMy WebLinkAbout01-23-2019 CC MinutesM: SIEBAST HOME OF PELICAN ISLAND SEBASTIAN CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING STORMWATER UTILITY FEE CREDIT POLICY WORKSHOP COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY MINUTES WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 23, 2019 - 6:00 P.M. CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS 1225 MAIN STREET, SEBASTIAN, FLORIDA 1. Mayor Hill called the Regular Meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. 2. Deacon John Dunlop of St. Sebastian Catholic Church gave the invocation. 3. Vice Mayor Kinchen led the Pledge of Allegiance. 4. ROLL CALL Mayor Jim Hill Vice Mayor Linda Kinchen Council Member Ed Dodd Council Member Albert Iovino Council Member Bob McPartlan Citv Staff Present: City Manager Paul Carlisle City Attorney James Stokes City Clerk Jeanette Williams Administrative Services Director Ken Killgore Building Official/Fire Marshal Wayne Eseltine Public Facilities Director/Airport Director Scott Baker Community Development Director/CRA Manager Lisa Frazier Leisure Services Director Brian Benton Police Chief Michelle Morris AGENDA MCy2yj,PTIONS Modificalions an adddiltions require unanimous vote of City Council members There was no objection to pull item 6A; and move item 15b regarding fire safety services, to just before item 7, the stormwater workshop renumbering it item 6.1. 6. PROCLAMATIONS. AWARDS BRIEF ANNOUNCEMENTS Presentations ofproclamations, certificates and awards, and brief timely announcements by Council and Start No public input oraction under this heading. 19.010 A. Presentation of Sebastian Clambake Foundation Proceeds to 2018 Beneficiaries by Aniani Cirillo. Foundation President This item was pulled from consideration. 19.011 B. Proclamation 211 Awareness Week — February 11 — 17. 2019 — Karen Bailev. HelD Me Grow Coordinator Mayor Hill read the proclamation and presented it to Ms. Bailey. Regular City Council, Slonowater Utility Fee Credit Policy Workshop & CRA Meeting January 23, 2019 Page Two 19.012 C. Public Arts Propram Presentation by Kimball Stadler & Amanda Smallev. Sebastian River Area Chamber of Commerce Public Arts Proaram Committee Beth Mitchell, past chamber president, advised the presentation they were about to see was a culmination of the Public Arts Program Committee's efforts undertaken since May 2018 which promotes the chamber's mission statement. She said the committee included chamber members, chamber staff, public citizens and members of Sebastian River Art Club. Ms. Stadler displayed a Hooked on Sebastian Arts PowerPoint presentation and requested a consensus to establish an art program within the CRA district. (See attached) Ms. Smalley displayed photos of different artwork in nearby sister communities noting people love posting photos of their interaction with art on social media. She advised the art could incorporate the Sebastian's fishing village theme. Ms. Stadler said the Committee would provide oversight and financial solutions prior to presenting the placement requests to Council and requested support. 6:16 pm Council Member Dodd said he favored the idea, and suggested a city-wide program. He said from a government perspective, a mural is a sign and art pieces are hardscape that might require a look at the Land Development Code (LDC) to see if there was anything prohibiting it or modify it so it doesn't prohibit it. He noted there isn't a lot of hardscape code; an attractive bike rack might need the addition of public safety code; and state and federal laws might need to be included to address certain content. Council Member Dodd said the request for art is a submission to the Growth Management Department to put a sign on the building; and the owner of the building would work on the finance which would not be part of the City's process. Ms. Mitchell responded if an area was designated for the mural program, it would not fall under the City's sign ordinance. Council Member Dodd said the LDC would need to be the controlling factor. Mayor Hill said he was not opposed to this but noted for the last several decades, the City has determined what color a building could be painted, the size of signs and how they will be illuminated which make Sebastian a wonderful place; they should be careful in changing everything that has been done over the years. He thanked the Chamber for presenting the idea and asked that this be agendized or workshopped to discuss how to protect the small town environment, how the murals will be maintained, what buildings they will go on, and what colors will be allowed before they agree to allow this or change the code. Council Member Dodd said he was in favor of moving forward. Vice Mayor Kinchen agreed, noting she has attended the mural meetings and looked forward to the final draft. It was the consensus of Council to have the chamber meet with staff. 6:25 pm Regular City Council, Stonnwater Utility Fee Credit Policy Workshop 8 CRA Meeting January 23, 2019 Page Three 18.002/19.014 6.1 Citv of Sebastian Fire Marshal (Transmittal. March 14. 2018 Transmittal. 0-18-02. Inspection Loa) The City Manager said a year ago, the City adopted Ordinance No. 0-18-02 establishing a Fire Marshal for the City to which the County has objections. He has met with the County Administrator, Fire Chief and each Commissioner to provide background and listen to their concerns. In the end it was agreed that he would ask City Council, at a public forum, if they would like to stay the course or look at something different. Jason Brown, County Administrator, said he and the Fire Chief have held discussions individually with each of them on what has happened in the past, the changes in staffing, and if there could be a fresh look at this. He asked if there might be an opportunity to try to see if the County can provide a higher level of fire safety services for a six-month time period to see how it works. Mr. Brown explained the voters consolidated the Emergency Services District in the 80's to include fire protection, advanced life support, fire prevention and permitting. This provides continuity between the fire prevention and fire permitting side. Mr. Brown said the City of Fellsmere was let go to conduct their own fire safety services at a different time period. Given there is more action in the City of Sebastian than Fellsmere, the County would like to make sure they are providing the review per code as a package deal since they are also providing the fire suppression In the event of a fire. Additionally there is a liability concern for the Fire Chief when there is another reviewing entity. 6:33 pm Council Member Dodd said during his discussions, the City asked for a list of the restaurant inspections within the City. Mr. Brown said the County did not have the logs to which Chief Stone confirmed from the audience. Council Member Dodd said he would like to hear from the City Attorney about the Fire Chiefs concern. Mayor Hill said people move to municipalities to receive a higher level of service and he asked if the City can provide the same or better level of service. The City Manager said in this past year, he has heard from individuals that they appreciate that Fire Marshal Eseltine can provide the fire and building inspections at the same time. The City Attorney said it had not been disclosed why the Fire Chief was not concerned with the City of Fellsmere conducting their fire inspections but if the claim is that Sebastian is a larger municipality, it would not be legally sustainable in court. Vice Mayor Kinchen said she has received several calls from contractors who are satisfied with the service they are receiving from the Building Department. Fire Marshal Eseltine said he has received the same positive response and maintains a good partnership with SafeBuilt to help provide services. The City Attorney said he was not aware of the City violating any federal or state rules by conducting the inspections but he would look into the Fire Chiefs obligations which would have to be a legal prohibition for Fellsmere as well. 6:42 pm Regular City Council, Slormwater Utility Fee Credit Policy Workshop & CRA Meeting January 23, 2019 Page Four Council Member lovino said he was against the City providing fire safety services; the highest level of service can only be provided by putting someone with experience with fire behavior in that role. He said the whole purpose of building and fire inspection is safety; he would trust Indian River County Battalion Chief/Fire Marshal Dave Johnson to inspect any building he might have to enter. 6:49 pm 7:00 pm Mayor Hill said he has not heard that safety is the issue, but level of service, with safety as the number one part of it. In response to Council Member MCPartlan, Fire Marshal Eseltine said the City was meeting or exceeding expectations. Chris Pinson, 481 Avocado Street, said he owns multiple businesses that deal with fire safety and protection and there is a lot to be said for the needed attention to detail. He said there are rules and regulations in place that address structural integrity and those same books address fire code. He said he has built a lot of structures that he would want trained fire personnel to save but it wouldn't take someone who went into a burning building to interpret a code that said it's a safe structure. He said he opened a Mild Bar permit in 2014 which was not closed by the County which delayed his recent attempt to make further improvements. He asked if that was really being detailed oriented. Mr. Pinson said Fire Marshal Eseltine recently completed a meticulous inspection at the Archie Smith Fish House, noting when you service a smaller community versus the entire County you have more time for detail. Todd Smith, licensed structural engineer, said the County's presentation did not mention any improvement in services at the permitting inspection end which has been the big part of dissatisfaction. He said the requests for inspections are not automated; it takes several days for inspectors to call back and several days for the inspection to occur, so time is money. A lot of contractors are seeing expenses because of these delays. He said since the City has taken over the role, his clients are satisfied and he would rather have a person in charge with knowledge of both sets of code. Mayor Hill noted during their discussions, Mr. Brown and Fire Chief Tad Stone have provided the County's proposed improvements. Thomas Haynes, owner of five properties, said he believes in the code but time delays are a problem especially when switching tenants. He said he appreciates having his questions answered here in Sebastian. Mayor Hill asked Council if they would like to change what they have done. There was no further discussion regarding the fire safely services. Brief Announcements 1125 — Chamber Concert in the Park — wt's End — 5:30 to 8 pm 1126 — Sebastian River Art Club Show in the Park — 10 am to 4 pm 1127 — Four Chaplains Commemoration — Veterans Memorial Park— 2 pm 218 — Chamber Concert in the Park — Southern Vine Band — 5:30 to 8 pm 219 & 2110 — Craft Club Show in the Park — 10 am to 3 pm Regular City Council, Stonnwater Utility Fee Credit Policy Workshop & CRA Meeting January 23, 2019 Page Five Vice Mayor Kinchen announced the upcoming events and Mayor Hill recessed the City Council Meeting and convened the Stormwater Utility Fee Credit Policy Workshop at 7:01 p.m. Recess City, Council Meetino and Convene Stormwater Utilitv Fee Credit Policv Workshop 18.048/19.013 A. Review and Consider Recommended Cha as to the Stormwater Utilil`( Fee Credit Pro ram (Transmittal. Proposed OW02. Pr000sed R-19-03. Policv. Application) The City Manager said this is to ensure the credit policy was being administered fairly and equitable based upon data that is measurable to include up to a 90% credit if property does not drain into the system at all. He thanked the Community Development staff for their hand work on the revised policy. Mayor Hill asked K the 30 days should be changed to 45 or 90 on section 102-128(a)(3). The Community Development Director advised that staff would like to keep the 30 days which is consistent with other documents. The City Manager said in the same section, 102 should be 124. Council Member Dodd explained that the only way property owners may receive a credit is to make a change to their property that will reduce the amount of impact on City's maintenance of stormwater structures; or if there are physical features to the property that allows the City to lake advantage of the fact that we don't have to provide the stormwater treatment; this is done during when the site plan or an application is submitted; a 90% reduction does require the 10% administration fee. He favored the revised procedure. Council Member Dodd noted the tax collector would require the whole amount during the appeal process instead of a good -faith estimate and the City Manager agreed that the language would be changed to collect the full amount and refund an overpayment if someone was successful with their appeal. It was the consensus of Council to move forward with the Stormwater Utility Fee Credit Program. Mayor Hill adjourned the workshop and reconvened as the Community Redevelopment Agency at 7:10 p.m. 8. Adiourn Stormwater Workshop and Reconvene as Community, Redevelooment Aoencv A. Aggroval of Minutes I. Nov. 28, 2018 CRA Meeting ii. Dec. 12, 2018 CRA Workshop MOTION by Mr. McPartlan and SECOND by Vice Chairperson Kinchen to approve both sets of minutes passed with a unanimous vole of 5-0. C. N. Kirrie asked to speak on the stormwater credit policy and Chairman Hill asked him to return during the first reading of the ordinance. Regular City Council, Sloonwater utility Fee Credit Policy Workshop 8 CRA Meeting January 23, 2019 Page Six B. Septic to Sewer Proaram Grant i. Consider Changes to Grant Program (Transmittal, SSP Jan 2019) The City Manager said these changes took into consideration the two different quotes: $5,000 for a gravity system and $10,000 for a lift station; and a 75/25 split along with a clarification of active septic systems. He asked the Board if they would like to move forward with the changes. MOTION by Mr. Dodd and SECOND by Mr. McPartlan to approve the program changes. ROLL CALL: Vice Chairperson Kinchen — aye Mr. Dodd —aye Mr. lovino—aye Mr. McPartlan — aye Chairman Hill — aye Motion carried. 5-0 9. Adlourn Communitv Redevelopment Aaencv and Convene City Council Meetinq Mayor Hill recovened the City Council meeting at 7:15 p.m. 10. CONSENT AGENDA A. Approval of Minutes — January 9, 2019 Regular City Council Meeting 19.014 B . Authorize Mayor to Execute Sovereign Submerged Lands Lease Renewal for Yacht Club Ramp and Piers (Transmittal, Lease) 19.015 C. Authorize the Purchase of One (1) 2019 Ford Explorer 4x2 SUV from Bartow Ford Company in the Amount of $28,132.95 for the Leisure Services Director Under Charlotte County's Bid No. 2018000509 (Transmittal, Quote, Bid) 19.016 D. Approve Alcoholic Beverages at Yacht Club for Blanchette Event on February 2, 2019 from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm - DOB Verified (Transmittal, Application, Receipt) MOTION by Council Member lovino and SECOND by Vice Mayor Kinchen to approve Consent agenda items A -D. ROLL CALL: Council Member Dodd - aye Council Member lovino — aye Council Member McPartlan — aye Mayor Hill — aye Vice Mayor Kinchen — aye Motion carried. 5-0 11. ��MMI 'T E REPORTS &APPOINTMENTS i y comm, ee repo s and Council Member regional committee reports. No public input or action except for City committee member nominations and appointments under this heading. 19.017 A. Parks and Recreation Adviso[v Committee (Transmittal, Application, Ad, List) I. Interview, Unless Waived, Submit Nominations for One Alternate Member Position —Term to Expire May 31, 2021 Regular City Council, Stormwater Utility Fee Credit Policy Workshop & CRA Meeting January 23, 2019 Page Seven It was the consensus of Council to appoint Dante Renzi to the altemate member position on the Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee. 19.018 B. Natural Resources Board (Transmittal, Applications, R-12-26, Ad, List) I. Interview, Unless Waived, Submit Nominations for One Regular Member Position Mayor Hill and Council Member Dodd nominated alternate member Ruth Callaghan to the regular member position with an additional tens to the remaining five months (term to expire July 2022). Council Member Dodd nominated Gerald Rosebery to the alternate member position. There were no other nominations. Mr. Rosebery will serve as the alternate member until July 2021. 12. PUBLIC HEARINGS 19.160119.otg A. Second Readina and Public Hearing of Ordinance No. 0-18-10 — Amending Land Develooment Code Section 54-2-7.7 Reaardina Walls and Fences (Transmittal. 0-18-10. P &Z Commission Minutes) AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF SEBASTIAN, FLORIDA, AMENDING LAND DEVELOPMENT CODE SECTION 54-2-7.7 REGARDING WALLS AND FENCES; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY AND REPEAL OF LAWS IN CONFLICT; PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION; PROVIDING FOR SCRIVENER'S ERRORS; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (PJ Ad 116/19) The City Attorney read the title of Ordinance No. 0-18-10 and Mayor Hill opened the public hearing at 7:18 p.m. The City Manager said this was in response to the past number of applications received for 8 foot fences. He requested approval of the ordinance. There was no public input. Mayor Hill closed the public hearing. MOTION by Vice Mayor Kinchen and SECOND by Council Member McPartlan to approve Ordinance No. 0-18-10. ROLL CALL: Council Member lovino — aye Mayor Hill — aye Council Member Dodd — aye Motion carried. 5-0 13. UNFINISHED BUSINESS 14. PUBLIC INPUT Council Member McPartlan — aye Vice Mayor Kinchen — aye Bob Stephen, People for Clean Water in Sebastian, provided a list of alternative methods to canal spraying noting there are some communities adopting some of the alternatives. He asked Council to direct staff to look into some altematives. Regular City Council, Stonnwater Utility Fee Credit Policy Workshop & CRA Meeting January23, 2019 Page Eight Dr. Graham Cox 1213 George Street, Pelican Island Audubon Society, invited everyone to the 2N Annual Landscapes for a Sustainable Future Conference to be held at the Indian River County Fairgrounds. (See attached flyer) Dr. Cox also distributed a sheet of 60+ alternative methods to deal with aquatic weeds. (See attached) He asked everyone to consider alternatives to spraying chemicals which can be found in the handbook, Biology and Control of Aquatic Plants: A Best Management Practices Handbook by the Aquatic Ecosystem Restoration Foundation published 2014 distributed by Florida WAS. He also distributed written commentary he provided to the Natural Resources Board in 2016 regarding this issue. (See attached) 15. NEW BUSINESS 18.048/19.013 A. First Readina Ordinance No. 0-19-02 Stormwater Credit — Set Public Headna for February 27. 2019 (Transmittal. 0-19-02) AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF SEBASTIAN, INDIAN RIVER COUNTY, FLORIDA, AMENDING CHAPTER 102, ARTICLE V OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES, PROVIDING FOR CLARIFICATION, UTILITY FEE CREDITS AND ESTABLISHMENT OF FEES; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICTS, PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR SCRIVENER'S ERRORS; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. The City Attorney read the title. The City Manager said this first reading of the ordinance incorporating the information presented at the workshop and asked if Council for direction. MOTION by Council Member Dodd and SECOND by Council Member McPartlan to pass Ordinance No. 0-19-02 with the modifications discussed during the workshop. C. N. Kirrie said the thrust of this was to provide water that flows from the City to the lagoon to be as clean as possible and he designed his project years ago to provide total retention with a semi -pervious parking to be environmentally correct. He noted there is no definition for semi -pervious and he finds the 10% administration fee is unequitable as he contributes no drainage to the City. He also asked that the grant money be looked at. The Community Development Director advised that pervious vs. impervious is part of the process to gain credits. ROLL CALL: Council Member McPartlan —aye Mayor Hill - aye Vice Mayor Kinchen — aye Council Member Dodd - aye Council Member lovino - aye Motion carried 5-0. 18.002/19.014 B. City of Sebastian Fire Marshal (Transmittal, March 14. 2018 Transmittal. 0-18-02, Inspection Loa) Previously moved to the beginning of the meeting. Regular City Council, Slonnwater U61ity Fee Credit Policy Workshop & CRA Meeting January 23, 2019 Page Nine 19.015 C. Award Continuina Professional Aimort Enoineerino Services Contracts to Infrastructure Consulting & Engineering. American Infrastructure Development. Inc.. Gale Associates. Inc.. and Amherst Consultina for Three Years with Optional Two Year Extensions (Transmittal. RFQ. Bid Tab. Score Sheet. Agreement) The City Manager said as a result of the consulting engineer contracts expiring, the Airport Director has put out a request for qualifications and received four responses from companies with unique services. He requested approval of the contracts. MOTION by Council Member McPartlan and SECOND by Council Member Dodd to approve contracts to Infrastructure Consulting & Engineering, American Infrastructure Development, Inc., Gale Associations, Inc. and Amherst Consulting, ROLL CALL: Mayor Hill — aye Vice Mayor Kinchen — aye Council Member Dodd — aye Council Memberlovino — aye Council Member McPartlan —aye Motion carded 5-0. 16. CITY ATTORNEY MATTERS - None 17. CITY MANAGER MATTERS The City Manager reported that he put in the appropriation request for the septic to sewer to the Indian River Delegation and asked City Council to excuse him from the March 27 City Council meeting to lobby the legislators in Tallahassee. It was the consensus of Council to cancel the March 27 meeting and if an item comes up, Council would meet March 2&. 18. CITY CLERK MATTERS - None 19. CITY COUNCIL MATTERS A. Council Member McPartlan - None B. Mayor Hill reported that he, the City Manager, and City Attorney met with the Indian River Delegation who seemed very receptive to the City's septic to sewer plans. He said representation during the legislative session will be very important. C. Vice Mayor Kinchen - None D. Council Member Dodd - None E. Council Member lovino - None 20. Being no further business, Mayor Hill adjourned the Regular City Council Meeting at 7:38 p.m. Approved at the February 13, 2019 Regular City Council Meeting ATTEST.., _ - - - % lark Q rm Hill anette Williams, MMC ,City Clerk 9 HOOKED ON Public Arts Program CHAM� R OF COMMERCE HOOKED ON "' \ S E BSA S�T�� A'N T WHAT WE ASK Reach a consensus in which there is a collective interest in establishing a PUBLIC ARTS PROGRAM within our current CRA district. CHA�OM MERCE HOOKED ON � A i l �. �: h ST�ANT MISSION It is the mission of the Public Arts Program to showcase the charm of our Sebastian River Area rich in history and modeled to promote tourism, community interactivity, and increased local business awareness. In addition to building a strong arts and culture environment, additional revenue opportunities exist through online and print materials for sale to our general public. u in Win IIIb- C,Ilmmr U, I l�F II�IF11./IFR�T OF Q! IRI_IC ARTS Murals Sculpture I Community Sponsored Arts Projects PROGRAM BENEFITS Positive Economic Impact Increased Tourist Attraction Nationwide exposure for local businesses City-wide exposure via Visit Florida showcase HOOKED ON S.-I-th Through proactive media efforts such as social media, press releases, art events, and community participation projects, Sebastian has the opportunity to attract community current and future residents ►1 .G;wr�f'�-lir GH M EfiO�OMMERCE ECONOMIC IMPACT HOOI<EDOKWT :\olIANR ► Florida's arts and cultural industry generated $4.68 billion of economic activity, including $2.29 billion by nonprofit arts and culture organizations ► 65% of visitors taking part in at least one culturally based activity during their trips. ► A recent study by Mandala Research found that cultural tourists spend 60% more per trip than those that do not take part in cultural activities. These visitors also stay longer and take more trips per year. Cultural tourists represent a market to be tapped to generate new audiences and new income. ► This economic activity supports 132,366 full-time jobs and generates $3.35 billion in resident household income. ► Florida's arts and cultural industry delivers $492.3 million in local and state government revenue. (Stats: VISIT FLORIDA, Division of Cultural Affairs and Citizens for Florida Arts) CMA�MBE O�M ERCE MURAL I ARTS MOVEMENT Vero Beach Melbourne ( ) Ft. Pierce ll�t4r /%ni.nm.tnrUnrtpu�ii) HOOKED ON , 4\ S E BSA S T�I A'N T Hollywood (mill. a:vjfI IMI I vwi)"nl Nlui.il PinI:,�i) Coral Springs ( II,yu, ii-.pi,nt m '1u/ot-hor (It. JLII 11„1l,-Jf1d .11I ) Dunedin ( l 11 1)[n/uu(_ d(-1jWiu1) Visit Florida 1 11 1 u it TI III .I III WI r InuyliU nl) CRAM ER OF COMMERCE Nor--,. *ORAL SPRINGS I POMPANO BEACH I HOLLY'' ► Jill Weisberg I Art Specialist/City of Hollywood CRA ► Laura Atria I Public Art Consultant for Coral Springs and Pompano Beach HOOKED OQ-T�, iS A'N GMA�COMMERCE ., r, w.... ART ATTRACTS VISITORS HOOKCD ON , CRAM E O�OMMERCE ART rl WORTS BUSINESSES HOORCDON n !Q �A S_EB�ASTIANT HAMbER 0� OG M�RGE HOOKED O19 `��`jC�(T...,.A W, f rtl CHMME CE ART THROUGHOUT OUR STATE -o HOOKco ON ©: \ S E BSA S'T=1 A'NT cngE coi i �ixce ART THROUGHOUT OUR STATE ,r , 'le a: cl-a;a=an]p: o11:, a i 1nIt, .... molal ':E, lf,-.°i.i.I v... 1. I1 HOONI:D UN 7t` 3 E BSA STI VN T lJl/\Mltl �Yd UP COMMI`.ItCI'. SEB�ASPTIVIT C�fAM ER OF COMMERCE NY? HISoorcco oN / T41 / A NT SEBASTIA L CRAM ER OF COMM RGE ► Contribute to aesthetic character and preserve the current small town feel of Sebastian ► Encourage community-based public arts projects to increase community cohesiveness ► Attract and Engage Tourists ► Stimulate tourism and increase local business revenue through public arts ► Assist Sebastian River Area in securing image of "Charming Fishing Community' ► Adopt an Art District ► Committee to control costs, provide oversight, vetting of artists and rendering prior to submission ► Provide financial solutions for each project prior to city approval request I 'ow do we keep the chorm... IIOONED UN n ©,\ S E BSA S`TSI A'N: Ai�-�L2FiL/J{iCA CMAM ER OF GOMM RCE MURAL CATEGOR!FF Natural Resources Celebrated birds Beach and Riverfront History of Treasure Coast Fishing I Fishing Village Interactive 111101(fD ON, jl S 1-w S T 1 IN GHAM ER OF COMMERCE Business ownerMurat Committee Artist recruited and completes mural receives request and selected through project request form schedules interview Mural Committee Artist rendering and supply list completed FUNDING DEFINED CRA Board 8 Community Development APPROVES or DENIES with explanation Meeting with Artist, Mural Committee and Business Owner to establish project agreement If project not APPROVED Mural Committee will meet to determine modifications Proposed project presented to CRA Board Et Community Development for review /awl ` NhmWr lY4r Mlbll) M1tln CURRENT a CRA AREA m..a irM�.. ,i x.xnlx �inenn.p.. ' •� �A / uw.... x" 4 .r.11 I � HOOKED ON E BSA S�T�I I A Ir / �z�yfrr+.r' CHA COMMERCC v,,,.... FISCAL. RESOURCES G ra nts Go Fund Me Fundraisers > Donations Sponsorships Art Patron CHAM HER OF COM MCf2GE HOOKED O S, 10 / Support the creation of a mural program and have staff work with our Chamber committee to finalize this Public Arts Program within the CRA District of the City of Sebastian CHAMBER OF GOM�RCE 9I91►M20 HOOKED ON �4{fl_M� ' z - Cea CtIAIBER OP �COMMERCE This list was submitted by Bob Stephen and Dr. Graham Cox to City Council at their January 23, 2019 meeting. Summary of biological management methods for aquatic plants. Management Description Advantages Disadvantages Systems where used Plant species response Method effectively Grass Carp / White Amur NeocheBna spp. Hydrellia spp. Bagousspp. Euhrychiopsis leconteiand other native insects Mycoleptodiscus terreshis (Mt) Herbivorous Fish Waterhyacinth weevils Long -tens (decades), relatively inexpensive Species selective Cannot control feeding sites, difficult to contain in water body, tendency for "all or none" community response, persistent Not effective in reducing areal coverage in many situations Hydrilla fly, hydrilla Species Selective Has not yet been stem weevil established Weevil - native or Already established Less selective, currently naturalized in U.S. under R&D Fungal pathogen; acts as a contact bioherbicide Low dispersion, fairly broad spectrum Native Plant Planting of Provides habitat, Community desirable native may slow reinvasion Restoration plant species or or initial invasion community Expense, cross - contamination, inconsistent viability and virulence of formulation Expensive, techniques still under development Isolated water bodies, effective against hydrilla and other preferred species. Operational. Released in Florida, Gulf Coast states. (Developmental) Released in Florida, Alabama, Texas. (Research) Currently under study in Vermont, Minnesota (Research) Under R&D for both Eurasian watermilfoil and hydrilla Under R&D around the country Fish have strong preference for hydrilla and some native plants, avoid Eurasian watermilfoil, generally do not prefer floating plants Leaf scars, some reduction in growth Limited Plants loose buoyancy, weevil interferes with transfer of carbohydrates "Contact Bioherbicide", plants rapidly fall apart, but regrow from roots Native plants provide ecosystem benefits, slow invasion use suggestions for US En wronmenta/ Protection Agency -approved aquatic herbicides. Compound Exposure Time Advantages Disadvantages (Water) Complexed Intermediate (18-72 Inexpensive, rapid Does not biodegrade, but Copper hours) action, approved for biologically inactive in drinking water sediments 2,4-D Intermediate (18-72 Inexpensive, systemic Public perception hours) Diquat Short (12-36 hours) Rapid action, limited Does not affect drift underground portions Endothall Short (12-36 hours) Rapid action, limited Does not affect drift underground portions Fluridone Very long (30-60 days) Glyphosate Not Applicable Triclopyr Intermediate (12-60 hours) Very low dosage required, few label restrictions, systemic Widely used, few label restrictions, systemic Selective, systemic Systems where used effectively Lakes as algicide, herbicide in higher exchange areas Waterhyacinth and Eurasian watermilfoil control, Lakes and slow - flow areas, purple loosestrife Shoreline, localized treatments, higher exchange rate areas Shoreline, localized treatments, higher exchange rate areas Very long contact period Small lakes, slow flowing systems Very slow action, no Nature preserves and submersed control refuges; Emergent and floating -leaved plants only Not currently labeled for Lakes and slow -flow general aquatic use areas, purple loosestrife Plant species response Broad-spectrum, acts in 7-10 days or up to 4-6 weeks Selective to broad- leaves, acts in 5-7 days up to 2 weeks Broad-spectrum, acts in 7 days Broad spectrum, acts in 7-14 days Broad spectrum, acts in 30-90 days Broad spectrum, acts in 7-10 days, up to 4 weeks Selective to broad- leaves, acts in 5-7 days, up to 2 weeks Characteristics of U.S. Environmental Protection Agency -approved aquatic herbicides. Compound Trade Name Company Formulation; Mode of Action Bluegill 96 hr. Contact vs. Systemic LC,, (mg/L) Complexed Cutrine-Plus Applied Biochemists Various complexing Plant cell toxicant 1250 Copper Komeen (Cutrine) agents with copper, Koplex Griffin Corporation superior to CuSO4 K -Tea Systemic 2,4-D Aqua-Kleen Applied Biochemists BEE salt Selective plant- 1.1-1.3 Weedar-64 Rhone-Poulenc DMA liquid growth regulator 123-230 Wee-Rhap A-61) Inter -Ag IEE liquid Several Others Systemic Diquat Reward Zeneca Liquid Disrupts plant cell 10-140 Contact membrane integrity Endothall Aquathol K Elf Atochem (All Liquid or granular Inactivates plant 125 Hydrothal 191 Formulations) Contact protein synthesis 0.06-0.2 Aquathol granular Fluridone Sonar AS SePRO Liquid or granular Disrupts carotenoid 9-12.5 Sonar SRP Systemic synthesis, causing bleaching of chlorophyll Glyphosate Rodeo Monsanto Liquid Disrupts synthesis 4.2-14 Systemic of phenylalanine Triclopyr Garlon 3A (EUP) SePRO Liquid Selective plant 148 Renovate (EUP) Systemic growth regulator Application restrictions of US Environmental Protection Agency - approved aquatic herbicides. Compound Persistence Maximum Maximum water Safety Factor Application Notes WES Recommended (half-life, in days) Application concentration for Rate Complexed 3 1.5 1.0 mg/L >50 Algicide / Herbicide Hydrilla, other Copper gal/ft/acre submersed spp. 2,4-D 7.5 0.5 gal/acre 2.0 mg/L >25 Some formulations for Eurasian watermilfoil, special permits only water -hyacinth, and others Diquat 1-7 2 gal/acre 2 mg/L 5 Binds with particles All (suspended solids) in water Endothall 4-7 13 gal/acre 5.0 mg/L >10 (Aquathol) Fish are sensitive to All submersed spp. <7.0 (Hydrothal) Hydrothal 191 - over 1 mg/L may cause fish kill Fluridone 21 1.1 gNacre 0.15 mg/L >20 Applications have been Most submersed spp. (150 ppb) successful below 10 ppb Glyphosate 14 2 gal/acre 0.2 mg/L >20 Aerial portions only - not for Most emergent and submersed plants floating spp. Triclopyr na na 2.5 mg/L >50 EUP/Special Needs only - Eurasian watermilfoil, US EPA label expected in water -hyacinth, 1997 others Characteristics of physical management techniques. Management Method Dredging/ Sediment Removal Drawdown Benthic Barrier Shading / Light Attenuation Description Use mechanical sediment dredge to remove sediments, deepen water "De -water" a lake or river for an extended period of time Use natural or synthetic materials to cover plants Reduce light levels by one of several means: dyes, shade Goth, plant trees (rivers) Advantages Creates deeper water, very long- term results Inexpensive, very effective, moderate -tens Direct and effective, may last several seasons Generally inexpensive, effective Nutrient Inactivate Theoretically Inactivation phosphorus (in possible particuL!r) using alum Disadvantages Very expensive, must deal with dredge sediment Can have severe environmental impacts, severe recreational/ riparian user effects Expensive and small- scale, nonselective Nonselective, controls all plants, may not be aesthetically pleasing Impractical for rooted plants limited by nitrogen Systems where us3d effectively Shallow ponds and lakes, particularly those filled in by sedimentation Only useful for manmade lakes or regulated rivers with a dam or water control structure Around docks, boat launches, swimming areas, and other small, intensive use areas Smaller ponds, man- made waterbodies, small streams Most useful for controlling phytoplanktor by inactivating water P Plant Species Response Often creates large usable areas of lake, not selective Selective based on perennation strategy; effective on evergreen perennials, less effective on herbaceous perennials Nonselective, plant mortality within one month underneath barrier Nonselective, but may be long -tens Variable Characteristics of mechanical management techniques. Management Method Hand- Cutting/ Pulling Cutting Harvesting (Cut and Remove) Grinder or "Juicer" (Cut and Grind) Diver -Operated Suction Harvester Description Direct hand pulling or use of hand tools Cut weeds with mechanical device (typically boat -mounted sickle bar) without collection Mechanical cutting with plant removal Mechanical cutting with grinding of plant material and in -lake disposal Vacuum lift used to remove plant stems, roots, leaves, sediment left in place Advantages Low -technology, affordable, can be selective More rapid than harvesting Removes plant biomass Immediate relief of plant nuisance, no disposal Moderately selective (based on visibility and operator), longer -tens Rotovating Cultivator on long arm Disrupts Eurasian for tilling aquatic watermilfoil stem sediments bases, intermediate- term results Disadvantages Labor-intensive, cost is labor -based Large mats of out weeds may become a health and environmental problem, may spread infestation Slower and more expensive than cutting; resuspension of sediments Resuspension of sediments, decomposition of plants in lake, floating plant material Slow and cost -intensive May spread large numbers of fragments; resuspension of sediments Systems where used effectively Most of the undeveloped world, volunteer labor pools Heavily -infested systems Widespread use with chronic plant problems Useful for chronic plant problems where disposal of plants is problematic Useful for smaller nuisance plant populations in which plant density is moderate Used extensively in the Pacific Northwest and British Columbia, with mixed results Plant species response Very effective in very localized areas Nonselective, short- term Like cutting, it is cosmetic, non-selective short-term Like cutting and harvesting, it is cosmetic, non-selective short-term Typically have minimal regrowth for Eurasian waterrnilfoil; not effective for tuber - setting hydrilla Effective in disrupting Eurasian watermilfoil dense stands; not selective and only intermediate -tens Our cause for concern about the use of RoundUp/Glyphosate in Sebastian canals and water bodies Graham L. Cox, Ph.D. 1213 George Street, Sebastian This issue was first raised about a year ago by Sebastian resident Mr. Bob Stephen at the IRL Council meeting at the Harbor Branch IR lagoon annual conference in February 2016. Council chair Ed Fielding asked the audience for examples of one single action that could be taken right now to improve the life of the lagoon. Mr. Stephen explained his observations about the use of RoundUp in the canal system in Sebastian and his observation that after each spraying not only was the vegetation killed along the canal banks but the fish and bird life as well as other aquatic life seemed simply to disappear, and the smell of the herbicides affected his breathing. Mr. Stephen said the city of Sebastian should stop spraying RoundUp and should set an example to other communities to stop spraying and find non-toxic alternatives. Three goals to consider: Striving for a sustainable Sebastian (sustainable economically, socially and environmentally); creating a non-toxic environment; and setting an example to neighboring communities. Why RoundUp and other chemicals/herbicides/pesticides are bad for our health: There is ample scientific documentation to show that the main ingredient in RounUp, glyphosate, is harmful to humans, damaging multiple organs in our bodies. Several European countries, including France and Italy, have either banned or seriously restricted its use. A committee of the World Health Organization has advocated banning its use, arguing that it is a human carcinogen. In the USA the EPA has refused to ban its use even though the agency has been shown plenty of evidence about its human health impacts. California and other US states are considering bans on its use. The bigger context for RoundUp: Monsanto Chemical Company invented glyphosate in the 1970s for use as a herbicide in agriculture and it is now used worldwide to increase crop yields, simply by suppressing the growth of weeds in the fields that compete for nutrients with the main crops — wheat, corn, cotton etc. At the time it was invented and used as a weed killer Monsanto was required to study its likely effects on ecological systems including the health of wildlife. It was approved for use by the EPA and FDA. However, many of the negative results from the Monsanto tests were suppressed. Like the tobacco companies that lied about human health effects of their products for years, Monsanto withheld negative information, however,these study results are now coming to light, including effects on human health. Statewide use of RoundUp/Glyphosate: RoundUp is made and sold in many different forms and under different names. RoundUp Custom was used as one of six different chemicals along the canals and in the water bodies of Sebastian. After we questioned the city council about its use the city's contractor, Applied Aquatics (AA), switched to another product called AquaMaster. This is described as a glyphosate salt; it has essentially the same chemical composition as RoundUp Custom but is designed for use in aquatic environments. RoundUp as a weed control is used throughout Florida as an approved herbicide so it undoubtedly is in the many food products we consume. It is therefore difficult to isolate the human health effects of glyphosate sprayed along the canals from the effects of our daily consumption of glyphosate from food products on our grocery shelves. Furthermore, glyphosate is just one of many chemicals sprayed along the canals to control weed and algae growth, and RounUp contains other chemicals not disclosed on the label to make it more effective as a weed killer. The city's contract with Applied Aquatics: AA has a contract with the state and the Corps of Engineers to clear weeds in waters all over south and central Florida using many control methods including spraying herbicides. The city of Sebastian simply tags along on this bigger contract and in September 2016 signed a five-year extension of this contract add-on to allow AA to keep spraying in the city waterways. This contract costs the city a lot of money; precisely how much we would like to know. Other chemicals used in concert with RoundUp by AA: Their list includes Captain, Copper Powder, Copper Sulphate, Shredder Amine, SunWet, and Tribune. We do not know the effects they have on human health. AA's non-compliance with the terms of the city contract: The contract has a very specific list of conditions under which AA can apply the chemical mix. These include putting a sign on the air boat saying who they are, notifying the residents along the canal what and when they are spraying, recording the weather and water conditions including the dissolved oxygen readings in the canal water. The data is to be filed with the state oversight agencies, which include the DEP, FWC and OF/IFAS Extension. We believe that AA does not comply with these contract conditions on a regular basis, based on our observations on "spray days". AA's bigger contracts with the USAC and water management districts: Given that the Sebastian contract is simply an add-on to the bigger contract that AA has with the state, we are determined to examine just what AA does in other water bodies and ask why they do not use non-toxic methods in Sebastian that they say they use in other waterways and water bodies. Our offer to city council and its natural resources board to list and examine alternative non-toxic means to control weeds and algae: Last spring we offered to the city council and the city's Natural Resources Board to compile the pros and cons of about 60 other state approved weed control methods. We are working on compiling this information. The experience of `Dr. Kirchner': A local IRC landscape contractor has extensive experience is the use of many chemicals. He quit using RoundUp once he and his employees started to experience negative health effects from glyphosate and he now uses non-toxic sprays to control weeds and algae. These alternatives are not as potent and long lasting as the commercial chemicals widely available but they are considerably safer for human exposure. How weeds are controlled on Indian River Farms Water Control District: Dan Gunter says he uses a canal flotation boom to contain the weeds and uses a crane with a drag line to pull the weeds from the water, pile them up in a contained compound and let them decompose. It takes them about three weeks to biodegrade and this creates a terrible smell. How Sebastian can set an example to neighboring communities: The city council should accept the fact that it is contributing to the decline of the lagoon and its wildlife, and probably human health, by spraying toxic chemicals in its canals and water bodies that drain to the lagoon and also effect groundwater. City Council should agree to explore non-toxic alternatives. By doing this the city can have an added benefit: it can reduce its TMDL N and P loads to the lagoon, probably save money and gain the respect of its citizens and neighbors for setting a good example. Just what problem is the city trying to solve in its canals and waterways? In solving all problems we must first agree on the problem to be solved. We must define the problem so that all stakeholders agree on the issue and then we can proceed to look at all alternatives, look at the pros, cons and costs of the alternatives and then agree on a solution that is better than doing nothing or simply continuing with the existing solution. So far as we can tell the city has not gone through this problem -solving process with city residents. We are willing to help the city set up and go through this process. Questions raised by Mr. Clifton on the natural resources board: Mr. Clifton has raised this problem solving process issue with the natural resources board but so far has received no support to take this issue further. We think we should take up this process issue with city council, honestly define the problem and help them move the process along. We are taking the fight to the state level, examining the state contracts: We recognize that city council feels it is acting in good faith. The chemicals used are approved by the state and by the EPA. Its contract is simply an add-on to the state contract with AA, so they feel it is acting sensibly and legally. We do not believe this is a good conclusion. We also believe we should be questioning the state role in this and start a serious assessment of the state's planning and actions that would allow the herbicide spraying when there are non-toxic, safe and practical alternatives. Can we document and isolate local human health impacts? This is very difficult to do locally because glyphosate and many other chemicals appear in our food and water from many other sources. But we should consider the `precautionary principle' in all that we do to create a sustainable society: if we do not know the results for sure about what we are doing then we should stop doing it and find better non-toxic alternatives. The role of the state health department and data gathering on pesticide poisoning of farm workers: The state health department understands the problems caused by spraying toxic chemicals in the fields where farm workers are exposed daily to a range of EPA -approved chemicals. Florida Health has pesticide poisoning investigators in the field daily interviewing farm workers and acknowledges that the health effects go beyond the farm workers to other members of the community. Can we improve the city's TMDL record? Yes we can, by harvesting weeds, weighing and measuring the N and P content of the harvested vegetation, by gaining points from the state for proper operation of the storm water park on Englar Drive, together accurately and honestly showing our contribution to cleaning up the lagoon. Will reliance on baffle boxes reduce the city's N and P contribution to the lagoon? Evidence presented Nov. 18, 2016 to the IRL Council shows that baffle boxes in Brevard County do not filter out N and P as they are purported to do, expensive as these boxes are. N and P stick to small particles and wash out into the lagoon through the baffle boxes. The boxes require constant maintenance. More effective are measures to sweep the streets and parking lots on a regular timetable. So far as we can tell Sebastian does not have an extensive and regular street sweeping program. How does this impact the city's budget? By saving on the AA contract, by putting young people to work to cut, harvest and control canal weeds, and thereby raising awareness among young people. What should we be doing to create a sustainable city? We must create a list of indicators/measures to gage the city's sustainability rating; set up a working group or focus groups to list issues and indicators of concern to city residents; give the natural resources board the authority to study and advance the sustainability issues and not devote so much of their time on planning Earth Day events as their number one priority. We will not go away. We have allies in raising this issue: Friends of the St Sebastian River, Pelican Island Audubon Society, IRNA, as well State Health Department pesticide poison investigator Dr. Antonio Tovar Aguilar, and we believe some of the members of the IRL Council. Mayor and city council members. Feb. 24, 2016 My name is Graham Cox, 1213 George Street, Sebastian. This might not be the most opportune time to bring this subject to you for discussion. But I will be brief and say what I have to say. Two weeks ago I attended the February meeting of the IRL Council at the Harbor Branch symposium on the condition of the lagoon. At that time the chairman of the IRL Council asked people to suggest actions that could be done right now to improve the lagoon. Mr. Bob Stephen, who lives on Concha Drive in Sebastian, explained what he had witnessed in the canal in the back of his property in January of this year — spraying herbicides that he is convinced are killing not only the plants on the canal banks but the fish and birds along with them. My house also backs up to the same canal. I have observed that bird life is much diminished and that it is very rare to see anyone fishing on the water or from the banks of the Storm Water Park. Bear in mind — what is sprayed in the canal eventually finds its way to the lagoon itself. Since that Harbor Branch meeting we have determined what those herbicides are. The main one is Roundup Custom. I have spoken directly with the district manager of Applied Aquatics. His name is Wade Pharis. He was helpful and only too willing to tell me what the chemicals are that they use. He is mailing me the MSDS sheets for each of the chemicals. We discussed alternative means to control the vegetation that would not be harmful to the environment and potentially human health. I have provided you, the council members, the city manager, and the staff of the IRL Council, the chemical names and the MSDS sheets — downloaded from the internet -- for each of the chemicals in use. I have also provided you with several articles that discuss the potential effects of the herbicides on fish, wildlife and humans. In my judgment this issue goes far beyond the city of Sebastian to the whole lagoon watershed. It would be encouraging if Sebastian is willing to take the lead and discuss first, the nature of the problem that prompts the use of the herbicides, and then discuss alternative non-toxic means to solve it, if indeed we do have a problem along the canals. I am asking you tonight to agree to consider the information we have provided and hopefully agree to suspend the herbicide spraying until we have a better scientific evaluation of the situation. I would be happy to be part of an ongoing discussion on this issue. We want to be positive, constructive and come up with some answers that are practical and cost effective. Thank you. To the City of Sebastian Natural Resources Committee My name is Graham Cox, 1213 George Street, Sebastian. At the last meeting of this committee April 5, 2016, we began a discussion of the alternative methods for controlling aquatic weeds in the city's canal and waterway system. We presented the committee clerk with a spreadsheet showing at least 30 of the 60 alternative treatments that are authorized for use in Florida and described by the University of Florida/IFAS office and asked that this list be shared with the committee members and with the city manager and city engineer. I hope that this has happened. At the last meeting of the City Council on April 27, 2016, we again raised this issue and asked to see the appropriate documents that provide for the city's authority to use herbicide sprays along the canals and waterways. In my mail yesterday I received from the city clerk's office several documents that make up the contract between the city — as well as the State Fish and Wildlife Commission and St John's Water Management District — and Applied Aquatics. Useful as the contract is we still do not have a copy of the permit nor the management plan under which this work is done by Applied Aquatics. What we do know is the cost per month, based on the monthly rate sheet and dated 10-7-09. That cost is $4,215 per month with a provision to raise the price 5% each year. So let's round that price up to 2016 prices and say $5,500 per month. In the contract it spells out the obligation of the contractor. I will select a couple for you to think about: 1. The herbicide applicator must be certified with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Any non -certified applicator must be under the direct visual supervision of a certified applicator. We have reason to question whether this in fact is happening. 2. The contractor has to report in considerable detail to a state site manager. That means there must be a sizeable paper trail that we can follow to see what work is done and when and what has been sprayed and how much. 3. The work must be performed in the most cost-effective manner to control target plants while protecting to the greatest degree practicable the non - target flora and fauna, the environment and the public from work operations. 4. The air boats must be marked prominently with the contractor's name and phone number. 5. The contractor has to post signs indicating applicable water use restrictions at access points in the treatment area and at appropriate shoreline locations. 6. The contractor has to have at each work site a record of wind readings prior to starting to spraying and hourly during the spraying. 7. The contractor must have oxygen readings each day before starting management operations. These are DO readings in the water and they cannot be below 5 parts per million. 8. The contractor has to provide the site manager with weekly written records saying what chemicals were used, how much, total acres sprayed, total operating hours, total hours of adverse weather conditions, the number of water restrictions signs posted and the DO measurements. The contract lists 11 approved herbicides and spray additives and this list includes Glyphosate (aka RoundUp by many names), 2,4D Amine, Diquat and a list of other potentially harmful chemicals. The contract also lists all the water bodies to be treated by Applied Aquatics. I will repeat my request for the permit and the plant management plan because that is what the state law requires there to be. The management plan must regularly be updated and must show all the alternative management options that were considered before they settled on the current plan. We will keep asking the city for this and broaden our request to the relevant state agencies — St. Johns, DEP, Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission and the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Affairs. At your last meeting Mr. Bishop started to ask a list of very good questions about the herbicide spraying operations. My final question is this: will the natural resources committee consider this list and present it to the city council and city manager as part of your responsibility to protect the environment of the city of Sebastian. They deserve to be answered. Thank you. Questions about the city's program to spray herbicides along the canals and waterways of Sebastian: Sebastian, like other government entities in Indian River County and beyond, has a contract with a company called Applied Aquatics to control aquatic weeds and algae along the canals and waterways. How much does this cost the city each month for this service? In order to conduct this program to control weeds and algae there has to be a permit issued by the state of Florida (either by Florida DEP, FWC, Agriculture and Consumer Affairs and/or the St John's Water management Board). Does the city have such a permit or does Applied Aquatics hold the permit? In order to issue a permit there has to be an integrated pest or plant management plan, an IPM. This plan has some or all of the following components: considers available management options (there are more than 60 approved in the state); must show an understanding of the biology and life cycles of target and non -target plant species; must evaluate ecosystem sensitivity to invasion by introduced organisms; must consider the impacts of management on ecosystems; must reduce invasive species impacts below an economic/ecological threshold; must allow flexibility to adapt management techniques to changing conditions; and develop additional management options. Did the city develop such a plan? If not, did the state agencies with responsibilities in this matter develop such a plan and seek public comment? Or did Applied Aquatics develop such a plan? The UF/IFAS guidelines also say the IPM plan must consider the many shared and often competing uses of areas to be managed. In addition, conditions change throughout the year and programs designed for one season may be unsuitable for other seasons. In the case of the city's canals, does the IPM consider that the canals are in residential areas where spraying herbicides, for example, can impact human health? Of the 60 plus alternatives means for control of aquatic weeds and algae, has the city administration considered these alternatives as a non-toxic alternative to spraying herbicides? A list of 30 of these has been submitted to the city's Natural Resources Board at their April 2016 meeting and has been included in the Board meeting minutes. Will City Council tum to the Natural Resources Board for advice on selecting from these alternatives? The Natural Resources Board itself has developed a practical list of questions that should be considered. These questions include: 1. What were the aquatic vegetation conditions prior to herbicide application? 2. What are the specific chemicals currently being applied, including concentration and volume, application rates and likely combined toxic effects of mixing a `cocktail' of chemicals? 3. What are the specific requirements imposed by the St. John's River Water management District and/or other governmental agencies relative to control of aquatic vegetation. Further, when was the last time these requirements were evaluated against conditions in the canals and waterways? 4. Looking at the bigger impacts on the Indian River Lagoon, have herbicides been identified or suspected as a factor in the decline of the sea grasses or other beneficial plant or fish or aquatic species? Do we have studies that have measured herbicide concentrations in the lagoon and the various parts of its ecosystem? In the contract with Applied Aquatics provided by the city clerk's office, the contract details spell out the obligations of the contractor. We are listing some of these obligations here and ask the city if they know for certain that they are being followed consistently by the contractor and their workers. Here are some of the obligations: 1. The herbicide applicator must be certified with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Any non -certified applicator must be under the direct visual supervision of a certified applicator. (We have reason to question whether this in fact is happening.) 2. The contractor has to report in considerable detail to a state site manager. (That means there must be a sizeable paper trail that we can follow to see what work is done and when and what has been sprayed and how much.) 3. The work must be performed in the most cost-effective manner to control target plants while protecting to the greatest degree practicable the non - target flora and fauna, the environment and the public from work operations. (This goes to the content of the IPM. We need to know what this plan says on this issue.) 4. The air boats must be marked prominently with the contractor's name and telephone number. (Our observation is that this is not the case.) 5. The contractor has to post signs indicating applicable water use restrictions at access points in the treatment area and at appropriate shoreline locations. (Again, our observation shows this is not the case.) 6. The contractor has to have at each work site a record of wind readings prior to starting to spraying and hourly during the spraying. (Does the city have access to these detailed records?) 7. The contractor must have dissolved oxygen readings each day before starting management operations. These are DO readings in the water and they cannot be below 5 parts per million. (Again, does the city have these records?) 8. The contractor has to provide the site manager with weekly written records saying what chemicals were used, how much, total acres sprayed, total operating hours, total hours of adverse weather conditions, the number of water restrictions signs posted and the DO measurements. (Does the city get to see these records?) The contract lists 11 approved herbicides and spray additives and this list includes Glyphosate (aka RoundUp by many names), 2,41) Amine, Diquat and a list of other potentially harmful chemicals. Is the city aware of the human health effects of each of these chemicals? For example, Glyphosate is now being banned for use in many states and countries because of the adverse human health effects. The contract also lists all the water bodies to be treated by Applied Aquatics. Is the city notified each time Applied Aquatics is planning to operate in the canals and waterways? Are the residents along the canals and waterways notified ahead of the spraying operation, in compliance with the contract obligations with Applied Aquatics? Finally, would the city be willing to accept help from its residents and from knowledgeable area experts in considering these questions and developing a non- toxic set of alternatives for the city and its contractor to implement? The Friends of the San Sebastian River would be willing to be part of such a review and planning team. In our view the city has an opportunity to lead the way for other communities in the Lagoon watershed to at least halt one deadly source of contaminants from reaching the lagoon ecosystem and at the same time protect human health from a likely source — i.e. Glyphosate -- for multiple diseases identified by the World Health Organization. to IT -no %Tom LEARN TO ENHANCE YOUR YARD WITH NATIVE PLANTS 2ND TRANSFORMING LANDSCAPES FOR A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE ..4; FEBRUARY 29- 2018 AT THE INDIAN RIVER COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS 7955 58TH STREET VERO BEACH, FL 32967 :ONFERENCE SCHEDULE 8AM Registration $10 in advance, $15 at door 8AM Vince Lamb, How to photograph your garden plants & butterflies 9AM Dr. Craig Huegel, Joy of Native Gardening 9:45AM Chris Waltz, Treasure Coast plants for your yard 10:30AM Break to visit demonstrations 11:15AM Michelle Peterson, Gardening for Native Bees 12PM Break for lunch 1PM Dr. Marc Minno, Gardening for Butterflies 1:45PM Kirsten Hines & Dr. James Kushlan, Gardening for birds in South Florida 2:30PM Michael Kuras, Planning for a Sustainable Garden & Landscape 3:30PMI Summary & Discussion: What can we do to improve our Lagoon and our Plants and Animals LEARN MORE ABOUT PELICAN ISLAND AUDUBON SOCIETY WWW. PELICAN ISLANDAUDUBON.ORG PHONE: 772-567-3520 1 EMAIL: PIAUDU8ON@YAHOO.COM k� k SPONSORS (AS OF 01/07/79) $1,500 • Drs. Andy Liu & Brenda Baker -Florida Power& Light $1,000 -Dr. Richard Sakai -The Law Offices of George Glenn $500 •Merrilyn Beck -Sunrise Rotary $250 -Charles & Janet Alford •Conradina Chapter/ FNPS -Dr. & Mrs. Robert Christopher -Dr. David Cox -Thomas & Sue Ether -Friends of St. Sebastian River • Garden Club of Indian River County .-Ralph Johansen -Dr. Maryam Ghadiri -Indian River Land Trust •Mandala Village -Steve Palmquist -Save the Manatee Club Supporters • Nancy Benedict -Anne Brakman •Elsbeth Eibs • Raymond & Lila Ferrari • Pat Holland -Tina Marchese • Suzanne Mather • Eleanor Mooney -NancyMadsen -Dr. John Orcutt -Ricky Ray -Deanna Richtarcik .Archie Wingfield For information about becoming a sponsor, please call 772-567-3520 SPEAKER BIOGRAPHIES Dr. Craig N. Huegel, Adjunct Faculty. St. Petersburg College. owner and operator of Hawthorn [fill Native Wildflowers, and is the author of Native Plant Lands aping far Florida Wldli% and Native Wildfiotvers, Other Grand Covers for Florida Landscapes, and Native Florida Plants,lor Shady Landscapes. Interests are: wildlife and wildlife habitat - especially the concept of creating habitat in otherwise developed landscapes; native plants; gardening; music, film and literature; winemaking; photography; and sports. Chris Waltz, a 4th generation Floridian, has a love and passion for the reaVnaturat Florida. As a member of the Florida Native Plant Society and Florida Wildflower Foundation for nearly 10 years, his landscape is nearly 100% Florida native plants, which recently was on the Conmdina Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society's Yard tour. Michelle Peterson, an avid gardener, became concerned about bees nine years ago after noticing a scarcity of honeybee pollinators and teaming about Colony Collapse Disorder. Soon after, she founded and was president of the Treasure Coast Beekeepers Association. She later became interested in the plight of native bees and other forgotten pollinators, and was certified as a Florida Master Beekeeper specializing in Native Bee Apiculture. She served as a Florida Master Gardener in St. Lucie County for the last seven years, and recently became a Florida Master Naturalist for Coastal and Upland Habitats. Michelle has a strong interest in supporting backyard beekeepers, promoting and encouraging native pollinators in residential gardens and landscapes, and discouraging the use of harmful pesticides. She is currently working to create native bee habitats in local preserves and public gardens. Dr. Marc Minno has a Ph.D. in zoology and more than 30 years of professional experience as an interdisciplinary scientist. Iie is currently a Water Resource Coordinatorwith the Suwannee River Water Management District in Live Oak, Florida. In addition to his many years of experience with wetlands, Dr. Minno is also keenly interested in conservation biology and has conducted field research throughout the Southeastern US as well as in the western US, Central America, South America, Caribbean, Europe, and India. Dr. Minno is currently working with biologists in Cuba to better understand the ecological relationships of imperiled butterflies in southern Florida. He has authored/ coauthored six books and five book chapters on butterflies and plants. Some of his books will be available for purchase. Kirsten Hines is a Coconut Grove -based author, photographer and conservationist with an M.S. in biology. Her writing and photography highlight nature and wildlife around the world, as well as closer to home where, among other conservation work, she aims to inspire the re -greening of South Florida's Cuban corridor. Her photography illustrates her co-authored books Attracting Birds to South Florida Gardens (2015 Florida Book Awards winner, Home & Garden), Birds of Fairchild (2015 Florida Book Awards winner, Coffee Table Book), and the recently published book Biscayne National Park. She is also co- author of the award-winning book Key Biscayne and the Institute ,%arReglonal Conservation k online native plant resource, Natives for Your Neighborhood. Kirsten's photography has appeared in Shuiterhug, Erpressions, Audubon, various nature photography showcases, public art programs, and solo and juried exhibitions locally, nationally and internationally. Dr. James Kushlan is an ornithologist, educator, writer, and conservationist. His professional positions have included those of research associate Smithsonian Institution, director USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research Center, professor and biology chair The University of Mississippi, professor Texas A&M - Commerce, and wildlife biologist National Park Service. He is past- president of the American Ornithologists' Union and the Waterbird Society and past -editor of the journal Waterbirds. He was chair and senior author of the North American Bird Conservation Plan, founder of Waterbird Conservation for the Americas and chair of the Bahamas Environment Fund. He also founded and chairs the IUCN Heron Specialist Group (Heron Conservation) and has served on the boards of the American Bird Conservancy, Hawk Mountain Sanctuary, North American Bird Conservation Initiative—US, Tropical Audubon Society, Biscayne Nature Center, and History Miami and chaired the US Bird Conservation Alliance. He currently serves on the boards of the American Ornithologists' Union, Waterbird Conservation for the Americas, Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, Zoo Miami Foundation where he is chair, and the Everglades Foundation and on the BirdLife International and University of Miami College of Arts and Sciences advisory councils. He has a PhD from the University of Miami and has been awarded two honorary doctorates. He provided the impetus for the Bird Conservation Program at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, University of Miami's Chair of Waterbird Biology and Conservation, and Zoo Miami's Everglades waterbird exhibit He has published over 200 technical papers and 10 books; the most recent (with Kirsten Hines) are Attracting Birds to South Florida Gardens, Birds of Fairchild, Key Biscayne, and Biscayne National Park. Michael Kuras is a a native Floridian and second generation Florida landscape designer who provides informed, sustainable, native plant biased design. His work is shaped by decades of design influence from numerous art, architecture and landscape experiences, courses and discoveries. He was General Manager and lead Landscape Designer for Gold Coast Nursery and Landscape in Delray Beach, Florida an upscale, full service, container, field and retail nursery which provided landscape design, installation and maintenance services for residential and commercial clients specializing in water and oceanfront estates. As Chairman of several HOA landscape committees in Florida and Georgia he has advised and crafted design proposals for residential, commercial and institutional projects throughout the Southeastern United States and the Bahamas. His passion is design with a focus on aesthetics and sustainable ecologies utilizing native plants and incorporating environmentally friendly materials and methods. He has continued active participation in the landscape field with classes, memberships, seminar attendance and formal education in landscape, ecology and environmentally related subjects.