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HomeMy WebLinkAbout11-05-2019 NRB Agendaan Lf SEBAsT," HOME OF PELICAN ISLAND NATURAL RESOURCES BOARD AGENDA REGULAR MEETING TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2019 - 6:00 P.M. 1225 MAIN STREET, SEBASTIAN, FL "To improve the quality of life in Sebastian by nurturing the balanced relationship between our citizens and our environment by protecting, preserving and promoting our natural resources" CALL TO ORDER II. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE III. ROLL CALL IV. APPROVAL OF MINUTES — ACTION ITEM October 1, 2019 Meeting Minutes V. ANNOUNCEMENTS Item A. Introduction of New Board Member Item B. Board Member Positions Available VI. PUBLIC INPUT VII, NEW BUSINESS Item A. Christmas Parade on Saturday, December 7th 5:30-8:OOPM i. Board to discuss ideas and materials for float ii. Volunteers needed— ACTION ITEM Item B. Earth Day & Arbor Day Celebration on Saturday, April 25th 9:OOAM-4:OOPM i. Divide up primary tasks among Board Members— ACTION ITEM ii. Potential vendors need contacted ASAP VIII. OLD BUSINESS Item A. Sustainable Sebastian i. Litter Quitter presentation and update ii. Identify key tasks IX. MEMBER MATTERS X. ITEMS FOR NEXT AGENDA: XI. ADJOURNMENT ANY PERSON WHO DECIDES TO APPEAL ANY DECISION MADE ON THE ABOVE MATTERS, WILL NEED A RECORD OF THE PROCEEDINGS AND MAY NEED TO ENSURE THAT A VERBATIM RECORD OF THE PROCEEDINGS IS MADE, WHICH RECORD INCLUDES THE TESTIMONY AND EVIDENCE UPON WHICH APPEAL IS TO BE HEARD. SAID APPEAL MUST BE FILED WITH THE CITY CLERK'S OFFICE WITHIN TEN DAYS OF THE DATE OFACTION. (286 0105 PS). IN COMPLIANCE WITH THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT (ADA), ANYONE WHO NEEDS SPECIAL ACCOMMODATIONS FOR THIS MEETING SHOULD CONTACT THE CITY'S ADA COORDINATOR AT (407)-589-5330 AT LEAST 48 HOURS PRIOR TO THIS MEETING.TWO OR MORE ELECTED OFFICIALS MAYBE IN ATTENDANCE. CUT 4Y SEBA'.SPAN NATURAL RESOURCES BOARD AIL Maus AGENDA TRANSMITTAL FORM HOME OF PELICAN ISLAND Council Meetinq Date: November 5t", 2019 Aqenda Item Title: IV. APPROVAL OF MINUTES — ACTION ITEM Recommendation: Submitted for Board Member Approval Background: If Aqenda Item Requires Expenditure of Funds: Total Cost: n/a Attachments: 1. Natural Resource Board, Minutes of Regular Meeting, October 1, 2019. CITY OF SEBASTIAN NATURAL RESOURCES BOARD MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OCTOBER 1, 2019 I. Mr. Stadelman, Acting Chairman, called the Natural Resources Board to order at 6:00 p.m. II. Pledge of Allegiance was recited by all. III. Roll Call Present: Ms. Brothers Ms. Ware Mr. Stadelman Mr. O'Neill Ms. Callaghan Absent: Mr. Howland -- Absent Ms. Mosblech -- Excused Also Present: Lisa Frazier, Community Development Director Kim Haigler, Environmental Technician Janet Graham, Technical Writer IV. Approval of Minutes A motion to approve the August 6, 2019 Minutes as presented was made by Ms. Callaghan, seconded by Ms. Ware, and passed unanimously via voice vote. V. Announcements A. Introduction of New Board Member Mr. Stadelman asked the new member, Ms. Brothers, to introduce herself and give the Board a little background on herself. Ms. Brothers identified that her background is as an attorney. She has lived in Sebastian for more than two years. B. Board Member Positions Available NATURAL RESOURCES BOARD PAGE 2 MINUTES OF OCTOBER 1, 2019 MEETING Ms. Haigler stated the Board has one alternate position and one regular position available currently. VI. Public Input -- None VII. New Business A. A Day in the Life of the Indian River Lagoon on October 10th at 9 a.m. Solicit for Board Member Volunteers Ms. Haigler described the event, which was held last year at the oyster garden as well. It is a collaboration with local organizations called "SEA a Difference." She described it as being held at different locations in Brevard, Indian River and Martin Counties where there are water quality samples collected, all at the same time, of the Indian River Lagoon. These samples and studies show the overall health of the Lagoon. She stated it was very successful last year and described the groups who would participate such as school students and volunteers from the community. She estimates it will only take a couple hours. Ms. Callaghan stated she would be available for the first hour. Ms. Ware also volunteered. Ms. Haigler stated the meeting place will be at the oyster garden. Staff will be there at 9:00 a.m. to set up. Igll�i]C1:31�fT� A. Sustainable Sebastian Litter Quitter Update Mr. O'Neill stated that unfortunately there is no update, as the scheduled meeting was canceled. Mr. O'Neill stated he feels Litter Quitter is a good program, but he is concerned about the lack of follow-through from "Keep Brevard Beautiful," under which Litter Quitter is established. He proposes to continue to attempt to get the program going in Sebastian. Ms. Haigler stated that at this point staff has trained the volunteers. What is needed from the Brevard Littler Quitters are the marketing materials and access to their online program, as the whole certification procedure is an online system. That is the main thing she is meeting with Brevard Litter Quitters to establish. She hopes to be able to reschedule the meeting in the near future. NATURAL RESOURCES BOARD PAGE 3 MINUTES OF OCTOBER 1, 2019 MEETING Mr. O'Neil reviewed that when this project was initially discussed, it was the goal to associate the Sebastian group with another group that was already established. Along with Litter Quitters, Surfriders is another program that was discussed. However, Surfriders has a fee associated with becoming a member, and it was thought that a program without a fee would be better received in Sebastian. Ms. Frazier asked for a description of how the Litter Quitter program works. Mr. O'Neill stated the program is geared mostly to restaurants. The program is designed to reduce single -use plastics. It is a voluntary program, and all that is necessary to participate is for the businesses to stop using plastic straws in order to qualify. The businesses will then get a sticker for their door that says they are a member of Litter Quitters, from which they get some promotional value from the Litter Quitter website. Ms. Brothers requested a copy of the PowerPoint presentation that was discussed last month, and Ms. Haigler said she would see that everyone gets a copy of that. ii. Board Member Review of Proposed Resolution for City Council Mr. Stadelman asked if the Board members had had a chance to look over the proposed Resolution. All the members answered yes. Mr. Stadelman then read the entire proposed Resolution (SEE ATTACHED) aloud and asked if anyone had questions or comments. Mr. Stadelman reviewed the purpose of this Board. He read from the City Code the section that pertains to the Natural Resources Board, which describes its mission statement and policies and procedures pertaining to it. He asked if a copy of this evening's proposed Resolution as well as the Article of the City Code that he just read could be sent to the City Manager. He feels that the Natural Resources Board has been somewhat ignored and is not always included in a lot of the plans for the City, and he wants to make sure that all pertinent City departments and boards are on the same page. He questioned some of the recent projects that have been proposed for the City and the fact that this Board was not asked for input on those projects. He feels there is a lot of brain power on this Board that would be beneficial if included when planning of these projects is conducted. He stressed that this Board is here to help in any way they can. Ms. Frazier emphasized that, if anyone on this Board has suggestions about items that should be included in the proposed Resolution, please address them. She also suggested, if the Board wants to include the proposed Resolution as well as the Article of the City Code that pertains to the Natural Resources Board, staff can put it together as a packet to present to the City Manager as well as City Council. NATURAL RESOURCES BOARD PAGE 4 MINUTES OF OCTOBER 1, 2019 MEETING Mr. Stadelman asked for consensus from the Board members on the items that are included in the proposed Resolution. Ms. Callaghan suggested that more detail be included in the proposed Resolution in addition to what has been presented this evening. She also suggested more emphasis be put on resource conservation/preservation such as LED lighting, solar energy, hybrid vehicles when City vehicles need replacement. Another item she suggested is retrofitting the public water fountains at various park locations so that when there are events at the park(s) attendees can refill their containers instead of using single -use plastic bottles for their water. Ms. Ware addressed the subject of landscaping practices. She notices that almost every lot that is being developed is also being totally cleared of trees. She would like to see that addressed. Ms. Haigler explained that there is a residential tree ordinance in Sebastian. She does a land -clearing inspection before construction is begun and another inspection before a certificate of occupancy is issued. Ms. Frazier also identified a website which contains the whole Sebastian Development Code which has a section about trees for anyone wishing to look it up. A lengthy discussion was had by all Board members and staff regarding wording that could be added to the proposed Resolution before it is voted on. Ms. Frazier suggested that an additional bullet be inserted into the proposed Resolution which addresses reducing the City's operational carbon footprint through promoting renewable, sustainable technologies and energy sources where practical. Ms. Frazier also described that a new Comprehensive Plan is being embarked upon for the City, and this Board will be involved. She also pointed out that, according to growth management law and planning law, a natural resource board is not mentioned as being part of a review of site plans, annexations, and long-range plans. If this is something that the Board wants the City to consider, then bring it to City Council, and they will be the ones who decide on that question. Mr. Stadelman asked if there was any further input on the Resolution. Hearing none, he called for a motion. Motion to move forward with the proposed Resolution with the additional bullet point which states that promoting renewable, sustainable technologies and energy sources where practical be added was made by Ms. Brothers, seconded by Mr. O'Neill, and passed unanimously via voice vote. III. Next Steps NATURAL RESOURCES BOARD PAGE 5 MINUTES OF OCTOBER 1, 2019 MEETING Ms. Haigler stated the revised proposed Resolution will be prepared and included in the packet for the City Council meeting on October 9th. She encouraged as many Board members to attend that meeting as are able. Ms. Haigler mentioned that the City ordinances are due for review, and some of the wording that is presently in the ordinances may not address everything that needs to be addressed at this point, and those will be looked at. Ms. Callaghan asked that discussion of specifics of the proposed Resolution be held at the next NRB meeting. B. Community Oyster Garden Grant Project Final Grant Report Submission Ms. Haigler is now preparing the report on this project. She thanked the Board members for all their hours of volunteer work on this project. She described that the project started out with four baskets weighing approximately 10 pounds each; they now weigh over 200 pounds. Nearly 300 residents have participated in the oyster garden's environmental programming over the past year. Future of Project The Environmental Learning Center has been working on getting approved for an oyster garden, and when they get approved Ms. Haigler said some of our oysters will be given to the Environmental Learning Center to help them get started. She stated that the education program going forward will be a little different, but they will still use the area out at Fisherman's Landing, as it is a great space for addressing water quality issues, etc. IX. Member Matters Mr. Stadelman suggested doing a float this year for the Christmas parade. Discussion was had among the members and staff. He volunteered to build the float. He estimates he would need roughly $100.00 for items he will need. A motion to designate $100.00 for costs of building the float for the Christmas parade was made by Mr. O'Neill, seconded by Ms. Ware, and passed unanimously via voice vote. Ms. Frazier announced that Sebastian was funded a $100,000.00 grant from the Indian River Lagoon NEP to match the existing $100,000.00 in order to assist those transferring from septic to sewer along the riverfront. She didn't have a definite number for what this NATURAL RESOURCES BOARD MINUTES OF OCTOBER 1, 2019 MEETING 19_TAIX-1 will cost each property owner. Mr. O'Neill stated that needs to be advertised. Ms. Frazier stated postcards will be sent to the property owners involved advising them of this. X. Items for Next Agenda A. Begin Earth Day Celebration Planning B. Where We Are and What's Next for the Proposed Resolution C. Date for the Earth Day Celebration XI. Adiournment There being no further business, a motion to adjourn the meeting was made by Mr. O'Neill, seconded by Ms. Callaghan, and passed unanimously via voice vote. Meeting was adjourned at 7:02 p.m. By: Date: Chairperson Nicole Mosblech rnYcf SEBASTI HOME OF PELICAN ISLAND NATURAL RESOURCES BOARD AGENDA TRANSMITTAL FORM Council Meetinq Date: November 5, 2019 XII. Aqenda Item Title: VIII. OLD BUSINESS Item A. Sustainable Sebastian Recommendation: Submitted for Board Member Reference and Discussion Backqround: The Natural Resources Board has worked to create the "Sustainable Sebastian" initiative. This Resolution summarizes the Board's goals and objectives for the initiative. At the October 9t" City Council Meeting, Resolution R-20-30 was unanimously passed by City Council If Aqenda Item Requires Expenditure of Funds: Total Cost: n/a Attachments: • Resolution NO. R-20-30 • Resolution Proposed NRB Action Items RESOLUTION NO.R-19-30 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF SEBASTIAN, INDIAN RIVER COUNTY, FLORIDA, SUPPORTING THE "SUSTAINABLE SEBASTIAN" INITIATIVE; PROVIDING FOR SCRIVENER'S ERRORS; PROVIDING FOR EFFECTIVE DATE. WHEREAS, the Natural Resources Board was created by ordinance 0-07-11 on June 27, 2007, with the mission to improve the quality of life in Sebastian by nurturing the beneficial relationship between our citizens and our environment by protecting, preserving and promoting our natural resources, and WHEREAS, environmental sustainability is the achievement of ecological balance, in which the needs of the present are met without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs, and WHEREAS, City Council believes that a commitment to the environment is integral to a thriving and livable community; they are committed to keeping sustainability in mind while supporting the ecological, economic, and social needs of our community. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEBASTIAN, INDIAN RIVER COUNTY, FLORIDA, as follows: SECTION 1. SUPPORT FOR THE "SUSTAINABLE SEBASTIAN" INITIATIVE. The City Council hereby is in support of the "Sustainable Sebastian" initiative, which consists of six primary tasks to be championed by the Natural Resources Board, these tasks are as follows: • Support overall reduction in the use of single -use plastics by the City of Sebastian and its business community by assisting and promoting Keep Indian River Beautiful/Keep Brevard Beautiful's Litter Quitter and Surfrider's Ocean Friendly Restaurants Programs and through the identification of alternative products. • Support landscaping practices that promote a healthy, native ecosystem by assisting and promoting Keep Indian River Beautiful's Lagoon Friendly Lawns and University of Florida IFAS' Florida -Friendly Landscape programs. • Provide recommendations for City policies and Codes related to Natural Resources. • Reducing the City's operational carbon footprint by promoting sustainable energy resources through the implementation of sustainable technologies, where practical. • Protect and restore the water quality of all our City's water bodies by supporting the City's Stormwater Program in the creation of toolkits emphasizing best management practices, low impact design, and green infrastructure. • Promote the City's overall liveability, through the promotion of active transportation, increasing the connectivity among trails and pathways, and promoting nature -based tourism. SECTION 2. CONFLICT. All resolutions or parts of resolutions in conflict herewith are hereby repealed. SECTION 3. SCRIVENER'S ERRORS. Sections of this resolution may be renumbered or re -lettered and corrections of typographical errors which do not affect the intent may be authorized by the City Manager, or the City Manager's designee, without need of further action of the City Council by filing a corrected copy of same with the City Clerk. SECTION 4. EFFECTIVE DATE. This resolution shall take effect immediately upon its adoption. The foregoing Resolution was moved for adoption by Councilmember . The motion was seconded by Councilmember and, upon being put into a vote, the vote was as follows: Mayor Jim Hill Vice Mayor Linda Kinchen Councilmember Ed Dodd Councilmember Albert Iovino Councilmember Bob McPartlan The Mayor thereupon declared this Resolution duly passed and adopted this day of , 2019. CITY OF SEBASTIAN, FLORIDA .31 ATTEST: Jim Hill, Mayor Jeanette Williams, MMC City Clerk Approved as to Form and Content for Reliance by the City of Sebastian Only: James Stokes, City Attorney RESOLUTION NO.R-19-30 Prouosed Action Items In order to begin moving forward towards a more Sustainable Sebastian, the following tasks are being presented to the Board for discussion: • Support overall reduction in the use of single -use plastics by the City of Sebastian and its business community by assisting and promoting Keep Indian River Beautiful/Keep Brevard Beautiful's Litter Quitter and Surfrider's Ocean Friendly Restaurants Programs and through the identification of alternative products. Where we are now? KIRB has agreed to champion LQ in Sebastian and we have partnered with KBB to hold a certification training event for volunteers interested in implementing the program. A meeting with KIRB, KBB was held on 10/30. What's next? Then we need print some of the start-up materials (recruitment folders, coaster, table - tents, etc.) Currently working with KBB on how to utilize their on-line certification system, reporting will be on a spreadsheet through the nrb gmail account. After we have access to their system, volunteers can begin certifying businesses. • Support landscaping practices that promote a healthy, native ecosystem by assisting and promoting Keep Indian River Beautiful's Lagoon Friendly Lawns and University of Florida IFAS' Florida - Friendly Landscape programs. Where are we now ? Currently, we distribute "new homeowner folders," they are provided by IFAS Master Gardeners and contain information on Florida -Friendly Landscaping. Inside the folders, I have added information on the stormwater program, swale maintenance, IPM, invasive plants, and protected species. The folders are left at every new home when I conduct the final P&Z inspection and distributed randomly while in the field. The NRB also voted to promote KIRB's Lagoon Friendly Lawns Program on our website. Brochures for the program will be distributed as well. What's next ? What are some other ways we can get the "new homeowner folders" out to new residents? (realtors, Chamber of Commerce) The City and IFAS has all of the materials, we just need volunteers to fold brochures and stuff the folders. The newly designed NRB website will promote both of these programs. Also, look around your neighborhood; nominate yourself, or a neighbor as a "Lagoon Friendly Lawn." Just getting a few of the signs out in the community will help generate program awareness and interest. Certified lawns will be photographed and featured on NRB website. • Provide recommendations for City policies and Codes related to Natural Resources. Where are we now ? Last summer, we discussed the current landscaping ordinances, compared to a model native landscaping ordinance, and other area ordinances, and came up with a list of recommendations. What's next ? Let's Begin with the City's Tree Protection Ordinance. Staff will provide the ordinance with the areas of opportunity outlined to facilitate Board Member discussion of how the Ordinance can be enhanced. • Reducing the City's operational carbon footprint by promoting sustainable energy resources through the implementation of sustainable technologies, where practical. What's Next?: We can move forward with developing a basic guideline/model for all businesses - something that can begin at City Hall. Board Members have forwarded some great resources, but they are very broad. We need to narrow down to specific categories (I imagine something like: "at the copier," "around the office," "at your desk," "in the breakroom,"...) Then we can have a bulleted list of simple ideas below each topic. Board Members to conduct a site environmental "audit." • Protect and restore the water quality of all our City's water bodies by supporting the City's Stormwater Program in the creation of toolkits emphasizing best management practices, low impact design, and green infrastructure. Where are we now ? A new NPDES 5 -year permit has been written, with specific BMPs for stormwater protection. The City is awaiting approval from the DEP. What's next ? Once we receive DEP approval, I will present a summary of the BMP's to the Board, specifically those involving community outreach, involvement, and education. We can brainstorm ideas for educating and most importantly, involving the public. Assist with planning community presentations at the Oyster Garden Site (Fisherman's Landing) from guest speakers and City Staff on water quality issues. New environmentally -friendly designs and practices are constantly being developed. Compiling summaries and data on the most applicable practices for our City into BMP/LID/GI Toolkits help to assess and improve stormwater management. Once developed, the current ordinances need to be reviewed and re -worded to ensure that they support and encourage these practices. • Promote the City's overall liveability, through the promotion of active transportation, increasing the connectivity among trails and pathways, and promoting nature -based tourism. Where are we now ? A green infrastructure map is being created by staff, which includes all public - owned property and parks, easements, land use, topography, and soils. What's next ? Once the map is completed, we can review and determine the areas where the greatest opportunity and need exists to connect our green spaces. We need to conduct a series of "walking audits" to determine "what areas of the City have the greatest challenges to foot and bike traffic, and why?" For instance: "Is there road crossing that has become busier and now needs a stop sign, or a light?" "Is there a 100 foot break in an otherwise continuous sidewalk that needs remedied?" "Is there a park or shopping center in need of a bike rack?" These are the details that help us create a more livable City.