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Home My WebLink About1992 - Vision of the Riverfront Committee,.1 Riverfront District 1992 i► n 1 - 3/18/92 City Engineer Letter Re: Yacht Club Proposed Improvements 2 - 6/3/92 City Council Agenda Transmittal Re: Riverfront District Status Report 3 - 6/3/92 City Council Minutes Re: Riverfront District Status Report - Devote 7/1/92 Workshop to Riverfront 4 - 6/24/92 PJ Public Notice - 7/1/92 Special Meeting 5 - 7/1/92 PJ Public Notice - 7/1/92 Special Meeting 6 - 7/1/92 Sullivan Submittal - Pages from Report Highlighted and Notes 7 - 7/1/92 City Council Minutes - Review of Riverfront Report - Five Motions Made - City Attorney to Prepare Draft Language for Riverfront District Preservation and Zoning Ordinance; Identify Achievable Development Activities Within Park Areas Along Riverfront; Approve Bikepaths, Sidewalks and Determine Theme Lighting; Negotiate with BRC for Utilization of IR Drive R.O.W.; Study Economics of Full -Scale Preservation and Development Activity Within the Riverfront District, Identifying Anticipated Expenditures and Recommended Financing Sources 8 - 7/2/92 IRC EMS Letter - Riverfront in Storm Surge Area 9 - 9/16/92 Collins Letter to City Manager Re: Update on Riverfront w/Attached 7/14/92 PJ Editorial Re: EMS Storm Surge Concerns, 7/10/92 Sun Editorial, 8/12/92 PJ Article Sebastian GDU Negotiation 10 - 12/11/92 City Engineer Memo to City Manager - IR Drive Improvements 11 - 12/14/92 City Manager Letter to IRC PW Re: Indian River Drive 12 - 12/18/92 Community Development Memo Re: Visions of the Riverfront - Land Use and Rezoning - Amend Commercial General 4 � City of Sebastian saw POST OFFICE BOX 780127 o SEBASTIAN, FLORIDA 32978 TELEPHONE (407) 5893330 o FAX (407) 599-5570 March 18, 1992 Mr. George Schum 750 Layport Drive Sebastian, F1 32958 RE: Yacht Club proposed improvements Dear George: Over the past year, the City of Sebastian has made many improvements to the Yacht Club property and the boat launching facility. We have repaved and restriped the parking lot and, by modifying the traffic flow, have been able to double the number of boat trailer parking spaces. We have stuccoed the building and constructed new sidewalks and handicapped access. We have also redesigned and redecked the existing finger piers at the ramp. The City has received the report from the Riverfront Committee, has drawn plans for a linear park close to the Yacht Club and has improved stormwater management through the SWIM program. Finally, the City has made a large investment in the purchase of the 2.2 acre "Cav-Corp" property which will be used, in part, to park boat trailers for people launching their watercrafts at. the Yacht Club ramp. The net -effect of these improvements has been an ever increasing demand of the Yacht Club dock facilities. These dock facilities are used by the general public and there is no discrimination of non -Sebastian residents. The City of Sebastian would like to remove and replace the the fishing pier decking and provide a breakwater section along the north side. The increase in use of the ramp thereby justifies the need for an increase of dockage area. This could be accomplished by extending the north finger pier at a 45 degree angle to the fishing pier. This would allow additional stacking along the fishing pier for boats waiting to be pulled out, thereby increasing the capacity of the launching ramp. Enclosed is a sketch showing the proposed extension of the north finger pier and the breakwater system. .-. The cost associated with redecking the fishing pier would be approximately $100 per foot or $35,000 and the extension of the north finger pier would be approximately $20,000_ The breakwater system would extend to the end of the fishing pier and would cost approximately $10.000. Therefore, to renovate the total project cost would be approximately $65,000_ We respectively request that this be considered for funding from the motor boat fund. If ,you have any questions or need any additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me. ncerely, Daniel C. Eckis, P.E. City Engineer/Public Works Director cc: Lonnie Powell, Mayor and Sebastian City Council Robert. S. McClary, City Manager Kathryn O'Halloran. City Clerk DCE:lk F0% 4 o� City of Sebastian POST OFFICE 80% 780127 II SEBASTIAN, FLORIDA 32978 ( 407) 589-5490 lT � m ,eB—Y MY- C'ea __JF�aEz��G�ts.._._ SHEET No CALCULATED BY PGE DACE... . CHECKED BY .—._ /. p—�DAIE__ ._... — SCALE % SOA f C332E4K LWA 2 5 ysT£� P�P03E0 Exrrvs>w-Ll ^o�re A1.,4f7> r//f/� Frrr�itiy F'iE2: E'wsr.' �FiNGF.[ PEK 5 I . CHANNE L � (o J n - YA7QH C7we R aM p i 9�2,%yo A'�A AN Sid Ga F? '4+w� 4� City of Sebastian POST OFFICE BOX 780127 c SEBASTIAN, FLORIDA 32978 TELEPHONE (407) 589-5330 ❑ FAX (407) 589-5570 SUBJECT: RIVERFRONT DISTRICT STATUS REPORT Approved For Submit al By: City Manager EXPENDITURE REQUIRED: AMOUNT BUDGETED: Agenda Number: Dept. Origin. Communitv Develooment (BC Date Submitted: 05/28/92 For Agenda Of: 06/03/92 Exhibits: 1. Status Report 2. Master Plan Conceptual Outline 3. Boat Trailer Parking Count SUMMARY STATEMENT APPROPRIATION REQUIRED: As requested by City Council, City staff has prepared a status report describing the effort to date to establish a unified riverfront district in the City of Sebastian. Council is herewith provided with the findings, suggestions, and background materials, including area maps. RECOMMENDED ACTION Review the materials provided, and staff recommendations included in the exhibits. Provide staff further direction and milestone target dates. City Council Workshop June 3, 1992 Page Five In response to Dr. Holyk, the City Attorney determined that there exists no conflict of interest for Dr. Holyk due to his friendship with the applicant. The City Attorney recommended certain conditions for the special use as follows: 1) secure proper state permits; 2) use of the CR 510 extension for ingress and egress; and 3) ceasing operations upon the first filing for a residential building permit in that location. Bob Walker, Empire Engineering, addressed City Council on behalf of the applicant. It was the consensus of City Council to direct the City Attorney to draft the proper documents for public hearing and that the special use be only for a two year period at which time a review will be conducted. ^ 92.180/ D. Riverfront District Status Report (Staff 91.136 Recommenda$ion dated 5/28/92, Report Under Separate over Ruth Sullivan, 1215 Indian River Drive, Sebastian, urged the city to reconsider obtaining jurisdiction of Indian River Drive. Warren Dill, 11675 Roseland Road, Sebastian, supported retaining a planning firm and forming a committee to go ahead with the project. The Director of Community Development reiterated staff's recommended action as cited in the report. TAPE II - SIDE II Discussion took place on FDOT's offer to fund U.S. 1 median strip improvements and the need to obtain the services of a landscape architect. Following a lengthy discussion, it was the consensus of City Council to devote the July 1, 1992 workshop solely to the Riverfront and, at this time, to authorize the advertisement of RFP's for landscape architects. r PUBLIC NOTICE SPECIAL MEETING SEBASTIAN CITY COUNCIL The City Council will conduct a special meeting on the Riverfront District on Wednesday, July 1, 1992 in lieu of its regularly scheduled workshop. The C= will take place in the City Council Chambers, City Hall, 1225 Main Street, Sebastian, Florida at 7:00 P.M. The public is invited to provide Press-Joumal, Wednesday, July 1, 1992, 7A PUBLIC NOTICE SPECIAL MEETING SEBASTIAN CITY COUNCIL The City Council will conduct a special meeting on the Riverfront District on Wednesday, July 1, 1992 in lieu of its regularly scheduled workshop. The meeting will take place in the City Council Chambers, City Hall, 1225 Main Street, Sebastian, Florida at 7:00 P.M. The public is invited to provide 0 s y ..� �J� 17166 C'N� moors " f fSEb sf fla �aL� t Res fK to i cP� PK, i.0 a0e o _u.. - -_^ FAI� oPS ddF' a n 26 �a.ol: _ ' ^ �R2✓ATS--.___...:._.._.., ya K .. _.I CIS X99 =u0Ar rel_ I I f . P :Cd r IF '✓ o- b Y asp , _� -` � - — — - ✓e�,< LdT 9 :10 r Cc - - - : rFo a c _ fa/r 6dgT _ Ul VICINITY m MAP 1 Sr�LE: am b --�- - _ n I Stoa-Light at Powerline Road 6 CR512: 2 St ap-Light at Powerlinm Road A c • Parking 26S cars: d New Grade -Crossing: a IS RPH River Drive; Main Street: 3 • Stop -Light at Jackson Strut 6 U.S.I: a e New City Park f • Trolley 6 Buggy Terminal: g 2-waY (tasporary 2 -lane) CRSI2: with Sbtues B Fountain: 5 • Stop -Light +t Main Street & U.S.1: 6 • Far ry to h • New 2 -way (2 -lana) Poemrlina Business Ca rrldot: d • Future 2 -way (2- Sepastlan Inlet: 7 • Police Station: B • Orange Heights: 9 • Louisiana Ave: Jackson Business Corridor: k • Proposed mooring of Historic SO+nish Sul• 10 • Railway Bridge at U. S.1: a • Parking 700 cars: h •.Parking 200 ears: I ■ Elementary School with Nen Powerl'Ine Entry: n e Nen 2Tnay U-1 anel CF 3) Enlarge the size of the Riverview ark _ q) 119 a for veh.e.es-sns.'t 6YS''t D. Transoortation. Transportation recommendations may be broken into categories dealing with: 1) Roadways serving the riverfront (Indian River Drive, Main Street, Davis Street, etc.) 2) Types of transportation using those roadways (cars, trucks, bicycles, pedestrians, etc.) 3) Water -related transportation (boat traffic and accompanying public boat ramps and marina facilities). The Sebastian riverfront is served primarily by Indian River Drive, whose right -of --way is currently under the jurisdiction of Indian River County. It is recommended that the City begin immediately negotiating with the County for the acquisition of the road right-of-way lying within the City's boundaries. Secondly, that upon completing the formal acquisition process, the City should review the speed limits and types of vehicular traffic to be allowed on Indian River Drive in order to protect the welfare and safety of the general public, particularly since this area will become more pedestrian -oriented. As to the future types of transportation to use Indian River Drive, it is recommended that special emphasis be given to a trolley system and horse-drawn carriages, This would allow the gen`eraf p—iu he a means ofgavel along the riverfront corridor without having to resort to the automobile. Because of the proximity of the Indian River Lagoon, waterborne traffic must be better accommodated. This would require a look at an existing boat ramps, boat docking and marina facilities. It should be noted that the consensus of the public, based on the response from the questionnaire with regard to a transit system, is listed below by order of preference: 1) Trolley Service 2) Horse -Drawn Buggies Also, there was an overwhelming amount of people who felt lower speeds on Indian River Drive were top priority followed by control of the road by the City, increased boat ramp facilities and limited vehicular access to Indian River Drive. E. Parking. The Committee, in order to better deal with automobile parking and access recommends that general parking facilities be developed at three locations within the riverfront: one in each of the north and south sections, and one centrally located. The parking areas should be readily accessible to U.S. #1, and along with extensive landscaping and lighting, should contain restroom facilities for public use. 10 These parking facilities could be shared by private development a a mean"s of meeting a portion of their narking requirements as well as Por the eener publi . Fees pal by private development for this use would go towards covering the cost of the parking facility itself. The following list completes the issues regarding parking and reflects an order of general public preference. l) Provide extensive landscaping using native plants 2) Additional public parking with access from U.S. #1 3) "- 4) F. Uniformitv of Shmaee. The Committee believes, in order to move forward with specific recommendations, that there are four (4) concems that need to he addressed at this time regarding uniformity of signage on the riverfront. 1) The Committee recommends that directional signage be the same color, size and shape for all areas along the riverfront. 2) The informational signs (picnic areas, restroom facilities, etc.) should be constructed according to the international code. 3) The Committee recommends that the City, through the use of ordinances, define criteria for all signs (public and private) so they are consistent and conform to the overall theme of the riverfront area. 4) Marketing and business signage should also reflect the style and character established for the riverfront All marketing and business signage should be regulated with a maximum size limit for everyone. Signage should be lighted for night use. Proper distances should be maintained between all signs and from pedestrian and automobile travel areas so as not to obstruct the view of the riverfront in any way. Uniformity in informational signage was the top vote getter with the public, followed very closely by uniform directional signage. G. Public Relations. The riverfront will continue to grow as a focus of development, along with the related activities that have become part of the riverfront, such as the City's Independence Day celebrations and the various festivities taking place in Riverview Park throughout the year. Through the use of public relations and general promotion, community awareness of the riverfront can be generated. The following reflects four avenues of approach regarding public relations for the riverfront, in order of public preference: II OWN 0 1) Newsletter 2) Chamber of Commerce Interface 3) Special Events The idea of having special events to maintain the riverfront area and enthuse and educate the community should be promoted; those special events might include fund raisers, art shows and musical entertainment. 4) Information Center It is recommended that an informational center or display be set up immediately under the canopy of the wishing well where community events and happenings can be posted daily and weekly. The display should be lighted and accessible at all times. Promoting special events and providing an informational display were rated highly on the questionnaire. The public also liked the idea of a newsletter to keep them informed of activities planned in the Riverfront District. The Committee recommends that there be a uniform lighting program for both public and private facilities. Old-style "gas" street lights (or something similar) should be installed along Indian River Drive. There should also be low-level landscape and park lighting to enable citizens to safely walk in the parks, and use riverfront facilities during the evening hours. 00-%� Uniformity in park lighting was the first choice of the public by an overwhelming margin. They also were in favor of old-style "gas" street lights and low-level landscape lighting for the entire area. Marine Facilities. The Committee encourages boating access to the Riverfront District. There should be adequate dock facilities to accommodate boaters. Additional fishing piers should be considered for recreational fishing. An additional boat ramp would be needed with permitted parking for boat trailers. The Riverfront Committee recommends the aforementioned items because the promotion of the fishing industry would help keep alive our heritage as a fishing village. The following, in order of preference, are the publics recommendations: 1) Promote recreational fishing activities - fishing pier 2) Boat ramps with permitted trailer parking 3) Encourage boating access - transient docks 4) Promote the fishing industry 12 encourage the harmonization of architecture. There are numerous examples of well designed codes that may be used in the development of guidelines for the riverfront. The Committee recommends that architectural design regulations be developed for the / riverfront. Some specifics discussed included redefining the determination of height restrictions in order to facilitate and encourage better roof lines, the encouragement of clustered dgvelonment to.14- maximize views of the lagoon and open space, and allow for some spec1Iincentives to encourage �" 0 quality development within the Riverfront District. i L Fundine Public Imorovements. Various sources of fundingwould be available to finance improvements that serve the public in the Riverfront District. Privately owned projects should not be funded through these sources and therefore are not addressed in this Report. Specific methods of funding can be more clearly defined as soon as the preliminary costs for ariy proposed improvements are available. , The City should pursue any and all sources for funding public improvements in the Riverfront District. Municipal bonding, grants, donations, land exchanges and special taxes or, assessments are all avenues that need to be pursued. The City should designate a staff member as the funding agent for this project through whom all funding efforts would be coordinated. In reviewing the options available, it appears a spgcial taz dis r'ct should be establishedi which would include the geographical areas in the Riverfront District. This vehicle would provide for the individual properties within the District to carry the major responsibility for funding the improvements within the District. An incremental tax district should be considered as this provides for freezing the taxes within the District as they then exist, with any increase in tax revenue partially paying for a bond issue. The City should_mnsider-using othecsources. of -revenue including the_ local sales lax option, loco option tax gas, or the occupational license fees to subsidize the Distrjcl,_ as c eeWrly,—the general public will also benefit from the improvements made to the Riverfront District. Items that could be funded using these methods include recreational facilities, road improvements, restrooms, street lighting, landscaping, parks, fishing piers, bike paths, and other City -owned property and facilities. In addition to the tax district, the City should pursue grants and/or assistance from the County, State and Federal Governments. The County periodically participates in funding recreational facilities and parks and the State has numerous grant funding programs available. Some of these include the Waterways Assistance Program, the Lind and Water Conservation Fund, Florida Inland Navigation District, Coastal Zone Management Funds, and the Florida Boating Improvement Program Funds. Grants and cooperative funding could greatly reduce the capital expense associated with any improvements to the Riverfront District. The City should be encouraged to hire consultants and/or lobbyists to aid the effort in soliciting and processing any applications for funding. There are several publications available through the Florida Funding Publications, Inc., which describe where and how to obtain these grants. 14 s City of Sebastian POST OFFICE BOX 780127 a SEBASTIAN, FLORIDA 32978 TELEPHONE (407) 589-5330 ❑ FAX (407) 589-5570 MINUTES SEBASTIAN CITY COUNCIL SPECIAL MEETING WEDNESDAY, JULY 1, 1992 - 7:00 P.M. CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS 1225 MAIN STREET, SEBASTIAN, FLORIDA ALL PROPOSED ORDINANCES AND INFORMATION ON ITEMS BELOW MAY BE INSPECTED IN THE OFFICE OF THE CITY CLERK, CITY HALL, 1225 MAIN STREET, SEBASTIAN, FLORIDA. PURPOSE: REVIEW RIVERFRONT REPORT 1. Mayor Powell called the special meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. 2. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited. 3. ROLL CALL Present: Mayor Lonnie Powell Vice Mayor Frank Oberbeck Mrs. Carolyn Corum Dr. Peter Holyk Mr. George Reid Also Present: City Manager, Robert McClary City Attorney, Rick Torpy City Planner, Catherine Hilton Deputy City Clerk, Sally Maio Secretary, Linda Label Special City Council Meeting Riverfront Report July 1, 1992 Page Two 4. PUBLIC INPUT ON AGENDA ITEMS Please Note: Anyone wishing to speak is asked to go to the podium and state his/her name and address for the record prior to addressing the Council. The following people addressed City Council on various aspects of the proposed Riverfront District. Edra Young, 1151 Clearmont St.; George Geiger, 566 Ponoka St.; Ernestine Park, Vero Beach; Ron Harsh, 550 Bayharbor Terrace; George Hertling, 517 Breakwater Terrace; Marshall Bruce, 346 Main Street; Harry Thomas, 654 Balboa Street; David Dabrowsk, 1532 N. Indian River Drive; Virginia King, 375 Manley Avenue; Stanley Krulikowski, 482 Azine Terrace; Ed Miquelon, 275 Zane Avenue; Mary Heinicke, 705 Cleveland Street; Angelo Cetola, 1456 Seahouse Street; H.J. Dabrowski, 1532 North Indian River Drive; Ruth Sullivan, 1215 Indian River Drive; Tape I - Side ii Mrs. Sullivan submitted petitions to Deputy City Clerk. Mayor Powell explained public input procedure. Public input continued with Tom Collins, 2200 Sanderling Avenue, Vero Beach, Captain Hirams. Mayor Powell called recess at 7:53 p.m. and reconvened the meeting at 8:04 p.m. All members were present. 92.180 5. REVIEW RIVERFRONT REPORT Following presentations by the City Manager and City Planner to City Council reiterating prior recommendations as stated in the report, a lengthy City Council deliberation took place. Tape II - Side I `A /�1 510 Special City Council Meeting ^ Riverfront Report July 1, 1992 Page Three Following further City Council discussion motions were made. (Page nine of the Riverfront report is attached) MOTION by Holyk/Oberbeck I would move that the City Council direct the City Attorney to begin preparing draft language for a proposed Riverfront District preservation and zoning ordinance. (Item C) ROLL CALL: Mr. Oberbeck aye Mrs. Corum aye Dr. Holyk aye Mr. Reid aye Mayor Powell aye MOTION CARRIED 5-0. MOTION by Oberbeck/Holyk I would move that Item D be approved by Council and that's to identify achievable development activities within park areas along the riverfront. ROLL CALL: Mrs. Corum aye Dr. Holyk aye Mr. Reid aye Mayor Powell aye Mr. Oberbeck aye MOTION CARRIED 5-0. MOTION by Oberbeck/Reid I would move that Item F be approved by Council - bikepaths, sidewalks and determine theme lighting. ROLL CALL: Dr. Holyk aye Mr. Reid aye Mayor Powell aye Mr. Oberbeck aye Mrs. Corum aye MOTION CARRIED 5-0. 3 Special City Council Meeting Riverfront Report July 1, 1992 Page Four MOTION by Oberbeck/Corum I would like to move that we authorize staff to continue to discuss and reach some agreement with Indian River County for the utilization of the Indian River Drive right-of-way. (Item B) ROLL CALL: Mr. Reid aye Mayor Powell aye Mr. Oberbeck aye Mrs. Corum aye Dr. Holyk aye MOTION CARRIED 5-0. MOTION by Corum/Reid I move that we approve Item E with the word "benefits" stricken. Item E will now read - "Study the economics of full- scale preservation and development activity within the Riverfront District, identifying anticipated ^ expenditures and recommended financing sources". City Council made it clear that it was authorizing staff to conduct the economic study as time allows. ROLL CALL: Mayor Powell aye Mr. Oberbeck aye Mrs. Corum aye Dr. Holyk aye Mr. Reid aye MOTION CARRIED 5-0. No motion was made on Item A "Formally document and mass -mail to Indian River Drive property owners any updated directives for acquisition". This item was left to the discretion of staff. 6. Being no further business, Mayor Powell adjourned the special meeting at 9:25 p.m. 2 Special City Council Meeting ,m% River£ront Report July 1, 1992 Page Five Approved at the .-� a,q i��1992 Cou Meeting. KathiyAq�M . O'Halloran, City Clerk /y QPp1MEryT ' o Indian River County �. s, �» Board of County Commissioners Department of Emergency Services O�'Ncy 5g0 1840 25th Street, Vero Beach, Florida 32960 July 2, 1992 The Honorable Lonnie Powell, Mayor City of Sebastian P.O. Box 780127 Sebastian, Florida 32958 Dear Mayor Powell: On July 1, 1992, the Sebastian City Council entertained discussion by the public about the new proposed Riverfront District. Unfortunately, I was delayed in attending the meeting and was not able to add my name to the speaker list. Therefore, I am sending you my comments in this letter. First of all, I want you to know that I am neither for or against the proposed district. The purpose of this letter is to allow the City Council to make an i-. informed decision. After listening to some of the ideas for development of the riverfront area, I discovered that no one was commenting on the affects Mother Nature may create. The entire Indian River Drive corridor falls within storm surge areas for Indian River County. Storm Surge is the sudden, rapid rise in the tide that occurs when a hurricane approached land. In some cases the tide may be 20 to 25 feet above normal. The Riverfront District would be in a Category 3 (115mph to 135mph) storm surge zone. This means that if Sebastian was struck by a Category 3 storm, water from the Atlantic Ocean will intrude on the land as far west as the railroad tracks just west of US1. Also, this water will have wave action which is the real destructive power of storm surge. During Hurricane Hugo (Category 4 storm), storm surge was reported as high as 25 feet above normal tide. This storm totally devastated the South Carolina coast. Many parts of the South Carolina coast no longer exist because the ground was washed out to sea when the storm surge retracted back into the Atlantic Ocean. In Sebastian it would be very likely that some of the ground banking the Indian River will be washed away and the property will no longer exist. Division of Division of Emergency Medical Animal Control Services 567.8000 567.8000 Ext. 446 Ext 217 SUNCOM 224.1444 Division of Division of Fire Services Emergency Management 367-8000 567-8000 Ext 73090 Ext. 444 FAX (407) 567.9323 Before the City of Sebastian invests any money in the Riverfrout District, a study should be conducted as to the damage which may occur from tropical disturbances entering our area. The worst case scenario for the Riverfront District is that government and private developers spend thousands of dollars into an area that may be washed out to sea in the near future. The best way to prevent massive loss of property and lives is not to develop the area and use the banks of the Indian River as a buffer for the remainder of the City of Sebastian. Dr. Robert Sheets, Director of the National Hurricane Center, is a strong proponent of coastal development regulations for the reasons described earlier. According to Dr. Sheets, people ignore the destructive power of storm surge and continue to develop structures along the storm surge boundaries. Currently, there is $1 trillion dollars of insured coastal properties along the east coast of Florida. Without any further development, a major hurricane will put a catastrophic strain on the American economy. Therefore, Dr. Sheets recommends that in depth studies be completed before development of any coastal areas that will experience storm surge. On June 29, 1992, the United States Supreme Court handed done their ruling on case number 91-453, Lucas versus South Carolina Coastal Committee. The ruling was 7-2 in favor of Mr. Lucas-. What this means very simply is that in order to control development and growth, government will have to purchase the land rather than impose restrictions on development. This ruling concerns our office because we cannot stop development which is in the path of storm surge. We encourage all government agencies to review their zoning regulations. You may wish to change some zoning for areas in the path of storm surge. Allow me to thank you in advance for your assistance and cooperation in this most important matter. If, during the development stage of your Riverfront District, our office can be of any assistance, please let us know. I hope these comments will be helpful in your development stage. Respect ul1G yi 0 Nathan B. McCallum Radiological & Atmospheric Emergency Analyst cc: vice -Mayor Oberbeck Councilman Holyk Councilman Reid ^ Councilwoman Com— City Manager Robert McClary M (I &/,y -,s- Capt. Mram's SEBASTIAN INLET MARINA Home of the "World Famous• River Raw Bar 'Waterfront Banquet Facilities • Catering Setv*e September 16, 1992 Mr. Rob McClary City Manager City of Sebastian Post office Box 780127 Sebastian, Florida 32978-0127 Dear Rob, When you have the time, I would appreciate your providing us with an update relative to the sewer and water issue and also om% the status of the Riverfront District. Thank you for your continued cooperation. Sincerely, ^ - ' Thomas H. Collins cc: Mayor Lonnie Powell ✓ Council Members By Car: 1605 Indian River Drive, Sebastian, FL 32958 By Boat: Marker 66 an the Intracoastal Waterway Phone: (407)589-4345 FAX: (407(589-4346 8A, PresiSlFdenal, Thursday, July 16, 1992 Vres,s Journat wrruV U.S. HIOhr.AY 1 et 161h Stroll cA�950d �e POST OFFICE BOX 1268 ^ VEBO BEACH. FLORIDA ]298 V The PHONE 562.2315 FOUNDED 1919 Audit 41100 Bureau Editorials J.F.116 m mn 115851966 Founder J.J. Sabana` (1595 1989 Founder J.J.&human., Jr. P,Meher Darryl K. Wks General MBnecy Rkdurd C. Wagner EdRo, Leery Rehman OPlnlan Pege Ed1N1 Tem OlNena DirKtPr Memo E. Adkln DlapbY Adrenialnp Manger Barbara S11 -1u. Clleulged Adremaing Mgr. SOBSCRIPnOM RATES For COnvenleel Home Delivery 569-7100 H.. O.W.J. Yee, 176.00 Home DeRvaq.5 morthe 160.50 MAN -7 Popes. Year $115.00 Mall—Wed. A llan, Y9ar 165.00 Cantle -7 Papers, Year lOa..,., $365.00 CanWe—Wad, A Sun., Mur mA. mel 1115.00 Riverfront (Moratorium? Where would Florida be If Its pioneers decided not to build near the water for fear of being flooded out by a hurricane? Il probably wouldn't be the nation's fourth most populated stale and one of the nation's top retirement havens. It's hard to imagine Florida without waterfront condominiums, resorts and res. taurants. That's why It Is so difficult to accept the rationale of Nathan McCollum, a storm analyst with Indian River County's Department of Emergency Services. McCollum last week warned Sebastian Mayor Lon. We Powell that the storm surge from a hurricane with 113 -to 135 -mph winds would push water from the Atlantic Ocean to the railroad tracks west of U.S. 1. The warning came In response to Sebastian's plans for a riverfronl district. "The best way to prevent massive loss of property and lives Is not to develop the area and use the banks of the Indian River as abutter for the remain. der of the city of Sebastian," McCollum said. We understand McCollum's concerns. Most people who live on the waterfront do so with the realization that a hurricane might someday wash away their homesteads. Others, however, have returned to their homes after the most destructive of storms. :The fear of the Rig One hitting Indian River County should not prevent Sebastian from moving ahead with its plans for a rlverfront district any more than unstable California grounds prevented cities such as Sen Francisco from rebuilding de- spite the threat of earthquakes. Year-old plana from the seven -member River - front Study Committee for an old -Florida -style fish. Ing village architectural theme for the area would be an economic blessing to the area. Investment, Jobs and tourists would be lured to the area, enhanc- Ing local recreational and social opportunities. The district already contains buildings that have weathered several decades of storms. Today's buildings, designed up to better standards, are even more likely to survive a serious storm. Through such construction techniques, efficient hurricane -warning systems and other methods, "we can do more to limit the losses caused by the ram. pages of nature than we can to control the often - cruel rampages of our fellow human beings," said Lawrence K. Grossman, a member of the U.S. Na- tional Committee for the Decade for Natural Disas- ter Reduction. Grossman is a believer in a National Research Council report that details a comprehensive plan on how to reduce loss of life and properly from natural disasters. The fact Is that people have built and will continue to build In areas prone to Roods, earth- quakes, volcanoes and tornadoes. The challenge now Is to mitigate the effects of these disasters. In Sebastian, officials should study the potential effects of a hurricane while conceiving a riverfront plan. The threat of a hurricane should be used to obtain knowledge that will strengthen the district. Such a threat should not be used as a weapon by the pessimistic, anti-riverfronl coalition. Rlverfronl development will occur either way, said Realtor Joan Preuss. It should proceed as part of a positive, concerted effort. 1 .,M ss n.g the bolt The dry btSebasgan may be missidg the boat when it comes to the development of our riverfront. And the boat is about to sail. One prediction can be made with some certainty. It is that devel- opment will happen in the portion of the city running parallel to the Indian River. Recognizing that, about 18 months ago the city appointed an ad hoc committee to consider options for channeling rivedron! *,vel- opment into directions that would protect the long-term Interests of our town and its citizens. A reportwas prepared, which presented a number of options, and considered various alternatives for achieving those objectives. Called 'The Community's Vision For The Riverfront; it was pre- sented to the Sebastian City Council in the expectation that the city would begin to take positive steps to achieve those goals. r� But now we seem to be floundering. To their credit, city staff generally has attempted to accomplish the things it can accomplish with the resources available. Recent improvements to Riverview Park and current plans for improvements to public property ellongthewaterfrontare welcome. However, what is still lacking in this process is leadership. Will the city hire a planner to prepare' a detailed plan for the Nbrfront? Will a special taxing district be created to implement that plan? Will stricter architectural standards be imposed for structures built along Indian River Drive? Do we know what we want to accomplish In this process? To date, these questions have not been answered. And In the absence of leadership, it is clear that misinformation is beginning to dominate the debate. A suggestion to have an architectural motif that evokes a'Key West style fishing village' has been transformed into a plan to turn Sebastian Into Key West A plan intended to control development has been turned into the tool of unnamed developers who want to sleal the rivedronl. Oe86whileihe rivedrontcontinues todevelop-as itwill, and apart from the barabones guidelines contained in the city's comprehen- sive plan, there is really very little the community can say about it. ^ ":,The boat is feaving the dock, Sebastian. Get ready 6 wave goodbye. .Vu.t v t;; ' George Ricker,, edito?. Sebastian, GDU To Ne&tiate 7 Water System &Ryy JAMES RIRLEY .34 n8meau Chid City Manager Robb McClary, and utilities consultant Jerry Hartman will Journey to Miami Tuesday for Sebastian's first meeting with General Devel. opment Utilities officials about buying the company's local water and sewer systems.! The city hopes to find GDU will. Ing to sell Its Sebestlan Highlands plants, and hopes it will net need to Invoke a provision In Its fran- chise with GDU to force a Bale through arbitration. The city hopes to find GDU willing to sell Its Se btistian Highlands plants, and hopes it will not need .to Invoke .a provision In Its franchise with GDU to force a sale through arbitration. It the legal right to buy GDU's utl- Iltles. th rl d Nce ,...i "That could be very expensive we go a cou or er, we were hoping General Devel- In legal and engineering .costs;" opment Utllines'-would see the w McClary said. "It could be chat- handwriting onthe wall and nego- rt lenged In court and gel even more Bale a fair price. expensive." . , 'gut GDU would not and It was That has been the experience of forced Into arbitration," she Bald. • �"- four Florida counties and cities. "Arbitration was .very costly. I that have tried to gel GDU sys- would estimate the cost of arbl-, .rod tems. None have been completely tratlon to be close to $500,000." W p successful to date and the courts have become Involved In every ef- deemed fort. etration lesselm r sky than court-orderd con - in in demnation when It sought GDU's �c Systems In Port Sl. Lucie and Malabar utilities. Finance Direc- Port Charlotte were taken by for Jim Demming said his city court-ordered condemnations. In did not want to Mak paying legal bath Instances, the price that will fees for both sides In a court case. be paid to GDU Is still being Illi- Palm Bay, North Port and as - gated. bastlan all hired the same utility Two other titles — Palm Bay consultants, the firm of Hartman and North Port — opted to Invoke and Associates Inc. p purchase rights In their fran' The law firm of Gray, Harris, '-1 chines with GDU. Arbitration pro- Robinson, Rlrschenbaum & Peep- s duced $91.8 million and $16.5 lee assisted Palm Bay and North WW million price tags, respectively. Port In legal matters. It Is the a And, in both Instances, GDU Is ed, same law firma at cofaalhbrief- appealing to the courts. with Ing document recommending Be - "We want to make sure we get a bastlan dissolve its utility fair price for them;" GDU Presl- franchise with fndlan River dent Charles Fancher said. "We. County and pursue acquiring don't believe we've gotten a fair GDU. . price In North Port and (Palm Bay) ; Mick said that legal fights In North Port and Palm Bay may re - "We were forced to go to arbl- sult In an easier time for Saba$. tratlon;" Cindy Mick, North Port's tlan's effort. public services director, said. "General DeveloQQ��nnent Utilities Is "I really believe that not wining w neebttate with us." fr m ••III benefit rcitisubstantially hve from what Its sister cities have done;' North Port, In southern Sara. she said. "I think that GDP must sola County, has been trying to understand that they have lost get GDU facilities for about two continually In the pest In these years. Mick said the city first other cities and that they would spent a "considerable amount" of probably lose with Sebastian If money proving Its franchise gave they take that route." . qCl City of Sebastian POST OFFICE BOX 780127 ❑ SEBASTIAN, FLORIDA 32978 TELEPHONE (407) 589-5330 0 FAX (407) 589-5570 M E M O R A N D U M DATE; December ll, 1992 TO: Robert S. MCClary City Manager FROM: Daniel C. Eckis, P.E.0) City Engineer/Public Works Director RE: Indian River Drive Improvements As requested, I have made a field investigation of Indian River Drive to determine the length of existing ditches to be piped and areas along edge of pavement that would require additional fill for roadside recovery. To this end, I have provided a list as follows: 1.) From Coolidge street to Cleveland Street an existing AON ditch to be piped approximately 250 linear feet. There is an outfall boxed culvert crossing under the road, this will require a catch basin to be installed. 2.) The Sebastian Oaks Townhouses at Cleveland Street to 955 Indian River Drive. An exisitng ditch requiring 660 linear feet of pipe. The pipe would begin at the last catch basin at the townhomes and would terminate through and on the otherside of the driveway at 955 Indian River Dr. In this stretch there is one box culvert outfall under Indian River Dr. which would require a catch basin. There are two incoming side ditch pipes requiring catch basins and all five driveways would have to be removed and replaced. 3.) On the east side of the road at the Boone property across from the Chamber of Commerce would require fill and regrading from the no parking sign approximately 125 feet north. The area would require approximately six inches to one foot of fill approximately ten to twelve feet wide. 4.) Across from Off Shore Marina, the ditch would require a catch basin from the box culvert outfall, north approximately 60 feet to Hurricane Harbour headwall. 5.) Oyster Point, there is an outfall pipe under Indian River ^ Drive which would require approximately twelve to sixteen feet on each side for pipe extensions. 6.) An existing ditch from Davis Street to Mays Marina would require approximately 200 feet of pipe. 90 feet may require piping or it could be regraded as a shallow swale. There is one box culvert outfall under the road which will require a catch basin. ird3.doc n City of Sebastian POST OFFICE BOX 780127 c SEBASTIAN, FLORIDA 32978 TELEPHONE (407) 589-5330 o FAX (407) 589-5570 December 14, 1992 Mr. James W. Davis, P.E. Director of Public Works Indian River County 1840 25th Street Vero Beach, FL 32960 Re: Indian River Drive and Gibson Street Dear Jim: This is to summarize the meeting held in your office on November 12, 1992 with you, Daniel C. Eckis, P.E., and me to discuss i'►. Indian River Drive within the City of Sebastian and that portion of Gibson Street which abuts the City. INDIAN RIVER DRIVE As a result of the "Vision of the Riverfront" report compiled by a special committee, the City of Sebastian is asking the continuing cooperation of Indian River County in improving Indian River Drive. Further, it is our desire that Indian River County maintain jurisdiction over Indian River Drive and maintain the roadway to acceptable standards while at the same time grant the City of Sebastian permits for certain right-of-way related improvements. Specifically, we request that Indian River County: A. Rehabilitate the driving surface by repairing areas of pavement failure. For your convenience, City Engineer, Daniel C. Eckis, P.E., has provided you with a memorandum detailing the results of an inspection made by our staff and keyed to the station numbers of the Indian River County sewer plans for Indian River Drive. B. That Indian River County remove all tree stumps within the right-of-way. While the County did an excellent job in removing many of the Australian Pine tree stumps which were the loft, result of the 1989 Christmas freeze, there are still several stumps which need to be removed. Mr. James W. Davis, P.E. December 14, 1992 Page #2 C. That existing shoulders on the east side be filled and graded to allow for a proper vehicle recovery area. Approximately 125 l.f. needs to be filled. We also ask that the few remaining open ditches on the west side be piped or regraded to remove the potential safety hazard and to permit the construction of a pedestrian walkway. Approximately 1,200 l.f. of open ditches would need regrading or culvert pipe. Enclosed is a report from City Engineer Daniel C. Eckis, P.E. outlining the locations of low shoulders and ditches. D. That any maintenance improvements as outlined above be coordinated with the Florida Department of Transportation since the FDOT U.S. #1 median improvement project will be impacting Indian River Drive with the replacement of certain storm water conduits. The City, in our continuing effort to enhance the river front area, may be requesting permits for improvements which may include the following: A. Placing existing over head telephone and power lines underground. Fortunately, there are very few over head ^ facilities within the Indian River Drive right-of-way. B. To install "theme" street lighting. C. To construct a sidewalk/bike path in the west right-of- way. D. To construct a boardwalk, at approximately the same elevation as the pavement, in the east right-of-way. It may be necessary to bridge certain sections of this boardwalk to maintain the level with Indian River Drive and to install hand rails for safety in certain sections. However, we wish to preserve and enhance the view of the Indian River and would therefore not wish to elevate the walking surface above the elevation of Indian River Drive. Further, we may wish to keep both the bike path and boardwalk near the outer edge of the right-of-way in order to avoid potential conflicts with underground utilities. We recognize that the issuance of permits will depend upon the final design of the improvements and subject to sound engineering. However, at this time, we are asking you to approve the concept of underground .utilities, "theme" lighting, bike path and boardwalk. 00% Mr. James W. Davis, P.E. December 14, 1992 Page p3 GIBSON STREET Gibson Street (130th Avenue) is currently a County road which extends south from Roseland Road to the north City limits of Sebastian. The southern most 1,320 linear feet of Gibson Street is County right-of-way but abuts the City to the east and all but two (2) lots to the west. This portion of Gibson Street is currently unimproved (not paved). Gibson Street is identified as a collector street on the Indian River County Major Thoroughfare Plan and is therefore eligible for impact fee expenditure or impact fee credits from District No. 3 impact fee funds. The City of Sebastian would like to see this portion of Gibson Street paved. Under normal circumstances, Indian River County could use its standard policy for petition paving whereby Indian River County would pay 50% of the improvements for a collector street and the adjoining property property owners, by special assessment, would pay the remaining 508. However, Indian River County does not have the ability to assess most of the adjoining property since all but two (2) lots of the adjoining properties are within the City. The City does not have a similar petition paving process but improves its municipal streets through the County Option Gas Tax Fund or General Funds of the City. We ^ believe that this portion of Gibson Street should be improved since most of the adjoining land use is Industrial and it is our desire to foster an atmosphere for industrial development within our City. Therefore, we suggest a joint project whereby the City would provide 508 funding and the County would provide 508 funding. If approved by both City and County, the road would be improved in fiscal year 1993-94. We anticipate that the extension of Gibson Street south to Main Street through the Saint Sebastian PUD would be effected by the developer of that tract and may be eligible for impact fee credits. We recognize that any impact fee credits would be negotiated between the developer and Indian River County. I would like to develop a joint recommendation along the lines outlined in this letter. Our joint recommendation would then be reviewed and considered by the Indian River County Commission and the Sebastian City Council. As always, it is a pleasure to work with you and your staff. Thank you for your continued cooperation and I look forward to hearing from you in the near future. S' rely„ C 00-1 Robert S. MCClar' /, City Manager RSm/jmt cc: Lonnie R. Powell, Mayor & Sebastian City Council Daniel C. Eckis, P.E., City Engineer Bruce Cooper, Director of Community Development City of Sebastian POST OFFICE BOX 780127 c SEBASTIAN, FLORIDA 32978 TELEPHONE (407) 589-5330 o FAX (407) 589-5570 DATE: December 18, 1992 TO: Robert S. MCClary City Manager FROM: Bruce Cooper Director of Community Development REFERENCE: visions of the River£ront ��J// In order to implement Phase V of your plan of action for the riverfront regarding the Land Development Code, the City /1 Council should direct the City Attorney to draft two ordinances changing the land use and rezoning of certain properties between Indian River Drive and U.S. #1 to a more compatible and flexible district, such as Commercial General. At the same time, the City Attorney should be requested to draft a separate ordinance to amend the Commercial General zoning district to include the following uses: 1. Waterfront or marine related specialty shops, 2. Boat rental, 3. Marine para -sails and service, 4. Bait and tackle shops, 5. Fish markets, 6. Boat repair & services, 7. Commercial wet or dry storage and boat sails. My department has prepared the mailing list of all property owners and abutters involved in the rezoning, in order to comply with the public hearing notice requirements. Please advise if I can be of further assistance regarding this matter. /1 BC/gk voriver.doc