HomeMy WebLinkAbout12-02-2025 NRB AgendaNATURAL RESOURCES BOARD
AGENDA
REGULAR MEETING
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 2ND, 2025 - 6:00 PM
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.”
1)CALL TO ORDER
2)PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
3)ROLL CALL
4)APPROVAL OF MINUTES – ACTION ITEM
Item A. November 4th, 2025 - Natural Resources Board Meeting Minutes
5)ANNOUNCEMENTS
6)AGENDA MODIFICATIONS
7)PUBLIC INPUT
8)UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Chair announces the title of the item
Staff Presentation
Public Input
Staff Summation
Chair calls for a motion
Board deliberation and roll call vote
Item A. Sustainable Sebastian
1.Goal 6 – Tree City USA Updates
2.Goal 7 – Invasive Species Removal Update
a.Filbert Street Park Invasive Species Removal – an Urban Forestry Grant Project
Item B. Event Debrief
1.Christmas Parade – Saturday, December 6th, 2025, at 6:30 PM
a.Board Member Parade Attendance
b.Final Preparations
9)NEW BUSINESS
Chair announces the title of the item
Staff Presentation
Public Input
Staff Summation
Chair calls for a motion
Board deliberation and roll call vote
10)ITEMS FOR NEXT AGENDA AND DATE: Tuesday, January 6th, 2025
1.Sustainable Sebastian
2.Christmas Parade Debrief
11)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 OF ACTION.
(286.0105 F.S).
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 MAY BE IN ATTENDANCE.
NATURAL RESOURCES BOARD
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING
NOVEMBER 4, 2025
I. Chairperson Stadelman called the Natural Resources Board meeting to order
at 6:00 p.m.
II. Pledge of Allegiance was recited by all.
III. Roll Call
Present:
Ms. Ware Mr. Bruggen
Ms. Thompson Mr. Trinkle
Mr. Carrano Mr. Krauss
Mr. Stadelman Ms. Shellenberger (a)
Also Present:
Felicia Gordian, Environmental Technician
Joseph Perez, AV Technical Assistant
Janet Graham, Technical Writer
IV. Approval of Minutes
A. October 7, 2025, Natural Resources Board Meeting Minutes
All having indicated they had reviewed the Minutes of October 7, 2025, Mr. Stadelman
called for a motion. A motion approving the Minutes of October 7, 2025 as presented
was made by Mr. Carrano, seconded by Mr. Trinkle, and approved unanimously via voice
vote.
V. Announcements
Ms. Gordian pointed out that there are flyers provided along with this evening’s agenda
regarding upcoming opportunities that all the Board members might be interested in, and
staff is promoting these opportunities to the public. The first one is on Sunday, November
9, 2025. It is a landscaping tour with the Florida Native Plant Society Conradina Chapter.
This is an event that the public is welcome to attend. This is a great opportunity for people
to explore native landscaping in our region.
The second opportunity is regarding a tour-and-learn opportunity with ORCA for the
Riverview Park buffered and living shoreline. That is on Wednesday, November 12, 2025
from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. This is a great opportunity to engage with ORCA on the
project that was installed at Riverview Park. She asked that any board member who
attends to please send her any feedback that you have from either of those events.
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She added that she had the opportunity to attend the Low-Impact Development
Conference hosted by the Marine Resources Council. If anyone is interested in any of
the notes that she took during the conference, she would be happy to share them.
VI. Agenda Modifications -- None
VII. Public Input -- None
VIII. Unfinished Business
A. Sustainable Sebastian
1. Goal 7 -- Invasive Species Removal Updates
a. Filbert Street Park Invasive Species Removal -- an Urban Forestry
Grant Project
Ms. Gordian stated that the Filbert Street Park project is something that was recently
brought to her attention by Richard Blankenship, the Parks and Recreation Facilities
Director. He was able to obtain an Urban Forestry Grant which was initially intended for
another site, and they have now had to pivot because of the amount of funding that was
provided to the Filbert Street Park. She added that, if you have not had a chance to visit
the site, there are a lot of Brazilian peppers and some other invasive exotics such as air
potatoes that are taking over the site. What they are looking to do is to remove the
invasive Brazilian peppers, not in their entirety, but they are looking to take out a large
portion of the Brazilian peppers from this site. Then, after they have been removed, they
plan to replant with more native trees. Those trees have not yet been acquired because
they are still in the early stages of the invasive exotics removal. There are gopher
tortoises on the site, and once the invasives are removed, hopefully this will open up the
site so we can find a better habitat for the gopher tortoises.
Mr. Trinkle asked where the invasive Brazilian peppers are located. Ms. Gordian said
most of the Brazilian peppers are surrounding the trails themselves. The workers are
going along the inner edge where most of the Brazilian peppers are, trying to take some
of them out, and potentially going along the roadside as well.
b. Air Potato Round-Up Planning -- Saturday, February 14th, 2026
Ms. Gordian said staff is continuing to move forward with plans for the next Air Potato
Round-up on February 14th. There will be postcards coming out shortly. There are a
couple of events that Pelican Island Audubon Society is hosting, and staff is looking to
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Distribute those postcards. Staff is also going to make sure that those postcards are
prepared for the Christmas Parade, and we will distribute those during that time.
Mr. Bruggen said we are waiting for those postcards because Donna Halleran of PIAS
offered to help. He said she has a fundraiser going on at the Portside Pub & Grille, and
she said she would be happy to distribute the postcards there as well. She also has
another event in December. There will be awards given out at these events. She is trying
to get some funding for these awards and gifts. He added that he is trying to get some
air beetles for the round-up this year. He is also coordinating with the Solid Waste
Disposal District to request that they provide the dumpster. They may be there as well.
Mr. Carrano asked who the fundraisers are for. Ms. Gordian said the fundraiser is the
Pelican Island Audubon Society for their organization, and they are our partner for the Air
Potato Roundup. So they would be willing to help distribute information on the Air Potato
Roundup. There was discussion among the Board members and Ms. Gordian regarding
these matters.
2. Goal 15 -- Food Security Updates
Mr. Bruggen said they met with Treasure Coast Food Bank in the middle of October. He
said Krista Garofalo is the Chief Strategy Officer for the Food Bank. There was a meeting
with her, Ms. Gordian, Mr. Blankenship, and Lisa Phillips with the Parks Department.
They had a lengthy conversation. He said he and Ms. Gordian had a conversation
regarding a short-term source for people in need. He went over some of the subjects
were that they discussed.
3. Goal 19 -- Marketing Parks & Green Spaces Update
a. Little Free Libraries -- Endorsement by Natural Resources Board
Ms. Gordian said that, as part of marketing our parks and green spaces, Ross Kelley
approached her about the Story Map he created inspired by the Little Free Libraries
program. She pointed out that there are several of these little libraries spread across the
City of Sebastian, and she mounted a map on the screen showing where these libraries
are located.
Mr. Stadelman and Ms. Gordian discussed some ways to get the word out on these
libraries.
Ms. Gordian asked someone from the Board to make a motion officially endorsing the
Little Free Library story map. A motion stating that the Natural Resources Board endorses
the Little Free Libraries story map was made by Mr. Carrano, seconded by Ms.
Thompson, and approved unanimously via voice vote.
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B. Event Debrief
1. Garden Club Park Weeding Day -- Saturday, October 11th, 2025
Ms. Gordian thanked everyone for being at the workday. It turned out really well. There
were so many weeds and invasive exotics removed that day. She asked for any feedback
from board members that can help to improve any of our native planting projects going
forward, or if there is anything to improve our weeding days and workday efforts in
situations like this again. She noted that there was some feedback regarding the mulch
that we brought onto the site and what possibilities there could be for the site. We also
may have some public input on this.
Ms. Thompson stated that she thought the event was a great success. There was a good
turnout with the Girl Scouts. There were a lot more invasives than we had thought. She
added that Ms. Gordian and she discussed doing this more often than once a year. She
suggested doing it pre summer and then after summer, perhaps doing it in April and again
in October, just to keep up with the weeds. She also suggested advertising the event a
bit more in the actual park, because there are many people who recreate in that park who
go fishing, walk their dogs or just walk. Some of those people might be interested in
participating as well since they use the park on a regular basis.
Ms. Gordian stated that it may be worth considering using different types of mulch , and
Mr. Stadelman thanked Mr. Richard Blankenship for his help. Mr. Stadelman called for
public input.
Nora Fosman stated that she was at the weeding event. She said she had also met Ms.
Donna Ware, and they met at the small garden outside of the Art Club Center. She
described that a couple of years ago she got involved with the Parks, Recreation and
Facilities Department where she needed pine needles for mulch for her community, and
they had a problem with getting rid of pine needles. She has been volunteering to go into
the different gardens that are overrun with pine needles and clean them out. At the same
time, she has been weeding and cleaning up those gardens. She stated that taking away
the pine needles was not the answer. They are a very good source of mulch. Unlike any
of the hardwood mulches or the mulches that you can get in a bag, they do not compress.
You can pile them up, and they are very good at shading out the invasive exotic weeds.
They do not matt down and shed water like the other mulches do. She reviewed the other
issues she has with the hardwood mulches. She suggested using the pine needles in
some of the beds in the public parks. She understands that the public is not a big fan of
using the pine needles. However, regarding the Garden Club Park, once you disturb a
site, whether planting or doing anything else, the weeds come in like crazy. She
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volunteered to do a small demonstration area by bringing the pine straw in and putting it
on at least a section of the garden after weeding it and seeing if that may change people’s
minds regarding the pine straw. Ms. Ware agreed.
A. Event Preparation
1. Christmas Parade -- Saturday, December 6th, 2025, at 6:30 p.m.
a. Seed Packet Work Day -- Solidify Date and Time
Ms. Gordian stated that tonight we need to discuss the date and time for the seed packet
workday. She suggested that the best opportunity would be the week before
Thanksgiving. She suggested either Tuesday or Thursday of that week, which would be
the 18th or the 20th. However, she believes that there is an event being hosted at the Art
Club until late evening that Thursday. After discussion, a voice vote was taken, and
Tuesday, the 18th, was approved unanimously. Ms. Gordian said she will look into pricing
the envelopes and seeing that the order is placed. She will send out a notice to the board
members a week before that.
b. Board Member Parade Attendance
Mr. Stadelman asked how many board members will be able to attend. Most of the board
members said that they would be there. Ms. Gordian said that the board members who
are participating in the parade need to get together a couple of hours before the parade
starts to decorate the float. The parade organizers want everyone in line by 5:00 or 5:30
c. Give-Away Options
Ms. Gordian stated that we need to decide what type of candy we will use. After
discussion, she asked the board members send her suggestions. Mr. Bruggen said he
sent away for more stickers.
IX. New Business
Mr. Trinkle asked Ms. Gordian if working on stormwater issues is still planned. Ms.
Gordian said yes, we will continue. She said they are in a waiting period right now before
the stormwater fee credit program is officially updated. However, if the board members
would like to continue moving forward with that, we can develop outreach that is more
specifically directed towards homeowners as a set of recommendations.
Ms. Thompson reviewed that she emailed to Ms. Gordian the deadline for the Tree City
USA application that is coming up. Ms. Gordian said she spoke with Ms. Bernard, and
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she has the ability to apply. She added that this must be handled on the staff side as far
as the application itself goes. She asked Ms. Thompson if she could compile the data for
the Growth Award portion that she has and send it to Ms. Gordian. That will help
immensely in streamlining that process.
X. Items for Next Agenda and Date: Tuesday, December 2nd, 2025
A. Sustainable Sebastian
Mr. Krauss stated that he has been working on the poll. He has been working on how
the poll was to be distributed, who gets a copy, etc. He sent that to the staff. However,
he would like to sit down with them a little bit first and walk through those items. At some
point, he may be sending those ideas to the board members and asking for their feedback.
Mr. Stadelman stated that he has some testing and some baseline data that he needs for
his report, and he will have to request some funds. He would like to have this put on the
next agenda to get that process started. This relates to the AI presentation. Ms. Gordian
indicated to him that a discussion will need to be held with staff b efore adding it to the
agenda for the next meeting.
B. Preparations for Upcoming Events
1. Christmas Parade
XI. Adjournment
There being no further business, Mr. Stadelman called for a motion to adjourn. A motion
to adjourn the meeting was made by Mr. Carrano, seconded by Ms. Thompson, and
approved unanimously via voice vote. The meeting was adjourned at 7:15 p.m.
By:_________________________________ Date:______________________
Chairperson Stadelman
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SUSTAINABLE SEBASTIAN 5-YEAR IMPLEMENTATION PLAN 2.0
SUMMARY
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COLLABORATING ENTITY NRB CHAMPION(s)HYPERLINKS DUE DATE UPDATES & NOTES
I.
GOAL 1
INCREASE AND/OR ENCOURAGE THE USE OF ENVIRONMENTALLY-FRIENDLY PRODUCTS AT CITY
HALL, AS WELL AS AT CITY-SPONSORED EVENTS AND ALL COMMUNITY EVENTS OCCURING ON CITY
PROPERTY
Charles Stadelman
1A Update the City's Sustainable Event Guide annually.
Parks, Recreation, & Facilities Dept.;
Commuications & Social Media
Coordinator
March 31, Annually
The 2024 Edition of the
Sustainable Event Guide is
currently in use.
1B Develop a resolution to solidify the City of Sebastian's commitment to the reduction of single-use plastics.Charter Officers; City Council July 31, 2025
Resolution Approved by
NRB. Slated to be brought
before City Council by CDD
Director.
1C Develop resolutions and ordinances limiting the permitted use of single-use plastics at City Facilities, including
those that can be rented by members of the public for private gatherings.Parks, Recreation, & Facilities Dept.January 31, 2027
1D Incorporate the reduction of single-use plastics at events into the Parks Master Plan.Parks, Recreation, & Facilities Dept.
1E Conduct an annual check-up on the items procured for City Operations to determine if more sustainable options
can be acquired.Parks, Recreation, & Facilities Dept.August 31, Annually
GOAL 2
CREATE INCENTIVES TO REDUCE THE USE OF SINGLE-USE PLASTICS BY RECOGNIZING BUSINESSES
AND ORGANIZATIONS THAT DEMONSTRATE EFFORT & COMMITMENT TO THE REDUCTION OF
SINGLE-USE PLASTICS.
Donna Ware
2A Develop a Recognition Program for Local Businesses that reduce their use of single-use plastics.Chamber of Commerce December 31, 2025
2B Identify and nominate Local Businesses that qualify for other recognition programs, such as Surfrider's Ocean
Friendly Restaurants.Chamber of Commerce May 31, Annually
2C Promote participation in single-use plastic reduction programs hosted by the City's Partners, such as but not
limited to the FDEP's Skip the Straw Program.
Communications & Social Media
Coordinator; Recreation Coordinator June 30, Annually
GOAL 3
LEAD THE CHARGE ON CLEANING UP THE LOCAL ENVIRONMENT & SUPPORT THE LEAVE NO TRACE
(LNT) ETHICS PROGRAM AS IMPLEMENTED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL
PROTECTION'S (DEP) AQUATIC PRESERVES PROGRAM
Deborah Shellenberger
3A Host training LNT Ethics training sessions for NRB Members and City Staff to improve our stewardship and ability
to guide the public.FDEP Aquatic Preserves Program FDEP Local Preserve Site May 31, 2028
3B Annually host sites for clean-up events such as the Treasure Coast Waterway Cleanup & the International Coastal
Cleanup.X
Marine Industries Association;
Coastal Connections; Parks,
Recreation, & Facilities Dept.
TC Cleanup Event Website September 30, Annually 2025 TCWC & ICC
Completed & Successful
SUPPORT THE OVERALL REDUCTION IN
THE USE OF SINGLE-USE PLASTICS BY
THE CITY AND ITS BUSINESS
COMMUNITY BY ASSISTING AND
PROMOTING KEEP INDIAN RIVER
BEAUTIFUL'S (KIRB) AND KEEP
BREVARD BEAUTIFUL'S (KBB) LITTER
QUITTER (LQ) AND SURFRIDER
FOUNDATION'S OCEAN FRIENDLY
RESTAURANTS (OFR) PROGRAMS AND
THROUGH THE IDENTIFICATION OF
ALTERNATIVE PRODUCTS
11-25-2025 NATURAL RESOURCES BOARD 1
SUSTAINABLE SEBASTIAN 5-YEAR IMPLEMENTATION PLAN 2.0
SUMMARY
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SUPPORT THE OVERALL REDUCTION INII.
GOAL 4 RECOGNIZE AND ENCOURAGE LOCAL RESIDENTS AND BUSINESSES THAT ACTIVELY UTILIZE NATIVE,
LAGOON-FRIENDLY, AND FLORIDA-FRIENDLY LANDSCAPING PRINCIPLES.Laura Thompson
4A Develop a landscaping recognition program for local residents and businesses.
Local Nurseries & Landscapers;
Communications & Social Media
Coordinator
NRB Landscaping Page December 31, 2027
4B Revive the Champion Tree Program, and incorporate a process for the nomination and declaration of Historic
Trees.Community Development Dept.December 31, 2026
Discussions of Champion
Tree Parameters
underway
4C Create "We Noticed" door hanger as an anonymous way to encourage residents to enroll in the recognition
programs.Community Development Dept.January 31, 2027
GOAL 5 EDUCATE THE PUBLIC ON THE BENEFITS OF IMPLEMENTING IFAS' FLORIDA FRIENDLY PRINCIPALS
INTO THEIR LANDSCAPE Laura Thompson
5A Utilize NRB website & social media to provide resources including outreach materials, landscaping principles, and
links to relevant organizations.
Community Development Dept.;
Communications & Social Media
Coordinator; UF/IFAS IRC Office;
Management Information Systems
NRB Landscaping Website May 31, Annually
Infographic Developed by
LT; Fertilizer Alternatives
provided by FT & flyer
developed by AJ
5B Host landscaping and tree care workshops for residents, businesses, and developers.Parks, Recreation, & Facilities Dept.;
UF/IFAS IRC Office October 31, Annually
5C Develop Public Service Announcements and outreach for the City's Social media regarding tree care, landscaping
practices, and invasive species, among other relevant topics.
Communications & Social Media
Coordinator August 31, Annually
5D Utilize the UF/IFAS Extension Office outreach folders to create more "Homeowner Welcome Packets" and
determine methods for getting packets out to more residents.X
Building Dept.; Community
Development Dept.; UF/IFAS IRC
Office
IRC UF IFAS Website May 31, Annually
Homeowner Packets
Currently being
distributed via Final
Zoning Inspections.
GOAL 6 SET THE EXAMPLE FOR SUSTAINABLE LANDSCAPES ACROSS CITY PROPERTIES Laura Thompson Trees for Life Program
6A Participate in the Pelican Island Audubon Society's Trees for Life program by planting more trees on City parks
and properties.
Pelican Island Audubon Society
(PIAS); Parks, Recreation, & Facilities
Dept.
NRB Landscaping Website October 31, Annually
6B Annually pursue the Tree City USA Growth Award.Parks, Recreation, & Facilities Dept.November Annually
Tree City USA Application submitted-
pending submission of Growth Award
Application
6C Enhance the existing demonstration gardens annually with new plantings, weeding, mulch, and added signage.X Parks, Recreation, & Facilities Dept.August 31, Annually
Native Landscaping at Garden
Club Park weeded Oct. 11th,
2025
6D Create new native demonstration gardens, Food Forests, and Community Gardens at City Parks.X
Parks, Recreation, & Facilities Dept.,
PIAS, Sebastian Garden Club,
Sebastian River Junior Women's Club
(SRJWC)
September 30, Annually
GOAL 7 IMPROVE THE ECOLOGICAL HEALTH OF OUR LOCAL LANDSCAPES THROUGH REGULARLY
SCHEDULED REMOVAL OF INVASIVE PLANT SPECIES AND PUBLIC EDUCATION ON THE SUBJECT Daniel Bruggen
7A Prioritize the Parks & Properties within the City's Jurisdiction which require the removal of invasive plant species
for maintenance and beautification purposes.
Parks, Recreation, & Facilities Dept.;
Parks & Recreation Advisory
Committee
October 31, Annually
Filbert St. Park Brazilian Pepper
Removal completed in 11/2025 &
new Native Trees Planted
7B Host at least one invasive species removal event annually in which the public is welcome to participate.XXParks, Recreation, & Facilities Dept.,
Pelican Island Audubon Society February Annually
Next Air Potato Round-up
projected for February
14th, 2026
SUPPORT LANDSCAPING PRACTICES
WHICH PROMOTE A HEALTHY, NATIVE
ECOSYSTEM BY ASSISTING AND
PROMOTING KIRB'S LAGOON FRIENDLY
LAWNS AND UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA'S
(UF) INSTITUTE OF FOOD AND
AGRICULTURAL SERVICES' (IFAS)
FLORIDA FRIENDLY LANDSCAPE
PROGRAMS
11-25-2025 NATURAL RESOURCES BOARD 2
SUSTAINABLE SEBASTIAN 5-YEAR IMPLEMENTATION PLAN 2.0
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SUPPORT THE OVERALL REDUCTION INIII.GOAL 8 ASSIST CITY IN REVISION OF THE TREE PROTECTION AND LANDSCAPE ORDINANCES Thomas Carrano
8A Board Members are to volunteer to serve on the Sub-Committee.X Community Development Dept.January 31, 2026
8B Updates and discussion are to be provided at NRB Meetings.Community Development Dept.January 31, 2026
8C Final revised ordinances brought to the NRB for approval before being presented to City Council.Community Development Dept.February 28, 2026
GOAL 9
ASSIST IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF CODES AND ORDINANCES TO ENABLE, ENCOURAGE, AND
PROMOTE THE USE OF LOW-IMPACT DEVELOPMENT/DESIGN AND GREEN STORMWATER
INFRASTRUCTURE TECHNIQUES AND TECHNOLOGIES
Thomas Carrano
9A Review the applicable Ordinances and determine if changes are needed to support and encourage these
practices.Community Development Dept.October 31, 2029
9B Identify policies of the Comprehensive Plan that require codifying.Community Development Dept.October 31, 2029
GOAL 10 MAINTAIN A PULSE ON THE CITY'S PRIOR SUSTAINABILITY EFFORTS TO ENSURE WE ARE MEETING
THE CURRENT NEEDS OF THE COMMUNITY Thomas Carrano
10A Annual IPM Reports are to be brought to the NRB for discussion.Public Works Dept.; Parks,
Recreation, & Facilities Dept.
July NRB Meeting,
Annually
IPM Presentation by City
Engineer/Special Project
Director delivered at June
2025 NRB Meeting
GOAL 11 EXPLORE THE USE OF PREDICTIVE ANALYTICS AND ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE TO IMPROVE
SUSTAINABILITY EFFORTS Charles Stadelman
11A Identify and prioritize the areas of greatest need and feasibility for utilizing AI and Predictive Analytic Modeling.Community Development Dept.June 30, 2027
Champion is currently
conducting research on
prospective models for
use.
11B Select the appropriate Predictive Analytic Model or AI to address each area of concern.Community Development Dept.June 30, 2028
GOAL 12 INCORPORATE THE NEEDS OF THE COMMUNITY INTO THE CITY'S SUSTAINABILITY EFFORTS Matthew Krauss
12A Develop an annual public poll in which residents can provide insight on the areas of greatest need.Community Development Dept.November 30, 2025
An online version of the
poll has been created.
Staff to prepare the hard-
copy version for
distribution.
12B Identify and prioritize specific Sustainable Sebastian topics that may require further public input.Community Development Dept.January NRB Meeting,
Annually
Adaptation Plan Public
Input Meeting on Oct. 28,
2025
PROVIDE RECOMMENDATIONS FOR CITY
POLICIES AND CODES RELATED TO
NATURAL RESOURCES
11-25-2025 NATURAL RESOURCES BOARD 3
SUSTAINABLE SEBASTIAN 5-YEAR IMPLEMENTATION PLAN 2.0
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SUPPORT THE OVERALL REDUCTION INIV GOAL 13 INCREASE RECYCLING AWARENESS AND AVAILBILITY TO THE PUBLIC Donna Ware
13A Work with Waste Management to host regular household waste/shred-it recycle events. Other videos
forthcoming.
Waste Management; Parks,
Recreation, & Facilities Dept.
Earth Day & Arbor Day
Celebration, Annually
Hosted Shredding,
Electronic Recycling,
Household Waste, & Bike
Roundup during 2025
Celebration
13B Add information on what is and is not recyclable to NRB Website, COS TV Channel, and on the City's social media
platforms.
IRC Solid Waste Disposal District;
Communications & Social Media
Coordinator; Parks, Recreation, &
Facilities Dept.; Management
Information Systems
NRB Recycle Website August 31, Annually
Videos on Preventative
Swaps for disposable
items & Recycling Sorting
have been posted to
social media.
13C Define cost and discuss funding assistance for waterfront businesses in acquiring recycling services.X Community Development Dept.;
Parks, Recreation, & Facilities Dept.June 30, 2026
GOAL 14 INCREASE OPPORTUNITIES FOR RESOURCE CONSERVATION AND MAXIMIZE RECYCLING
AVAILABILITY WITHIN CITY OPERATIONS Frank Trinkle
14A Establish a protocol for selecting energy efficient choices for planned major City purchases (i.e. lighting, windows,
CIP items, etc.)X Procurement Division.; Parks,
Recreation, & Facilities Dept.September 30, 2025 Draft Protocol created by
FT, pending staff review
14B Annually check to ensure that every office and copier has a recycling bin.Community Development Dept.;
Parks, Recreation, & Facilities Dept.September 30, Annually
FT in coordination with
Parks, Recreation, &
Facilities Dept.
14C Post educational outreach of simple sustainability practices, including but not limited to ways to reduce, reuse,
and recycle, communicated through emails and signage in gathering areas.Parks, Recreation, & Facilities Dept.October 31, Annually
14D Annually evaluate City Operations to determine the areas of greatest need to be addressed.Parks, Recreation, & Facilities Dept.September 30, Annually
GOAL 15 INCREASE EQUITY CITY-WIDE AND IMPROVE THE CITY'S OVERALL RESILIENCY BY ADDRESSING
FOOD INSECURITY ISSUES Daniel Bruggen
15A Develop a food waste reduction program in partnership with local restaurants and organizations.XXParks, Recreation, & Facilities Dept.;
Chamber of Commerce September 30, 2027
Met with Parks, Recreation,
& Facilities Director to
discuss preliminary
concepts.
15B Develop a system of community pantries and fridges within City limits.X
Parks, Recreation, & Facilities Dept.;
Treasure Coast Community Fridges,
Inc.; Public Works GIS Division
December 31, 2027
Met with Treasure Coast Food
Bank to explore short-term &
long-term food security
opportunities
15C Provide information about local food security programs and resources on the City's website and social media to
increase accessibility.
Communications & Social Media
Coordinator; Management
Information Systems
January 31, 2027
COS is hosting the Treasure
Coast Food Bank Market Bus &
promoting it on social media.
15D Provide educational materials and opportunities to help residents learn ways to reduce food waste, including but
not limited to composting.
Communications & Social Media
Coordinator; Management
Information Systems
30 ways to green office August 31, 2025
IDEAS for Us-Fleet
Farming Presentation to
NRB Planned for August
5th Meeting.
REDUCING THE CITY'S OPERATIONAL
FOOTPRINT BY PROMOTING
SUSTAINABLE ENERGY RESOURCES
THROUGH THE IMPLEMENTATION OF
SUSTAINABLE TECHNOLOGIES, WHERE
PRACTICAL
11-25-2025 NATURAL RESOURCES BOARD 4
SUSTAINABLE SEBASTIAN 5-YEAR IMPLEMENTATION PLAN 2.0
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COLLABORATING ENTITY NRB CHAMPION(s)HYPERLINKS DUE DATE UPDATES & NOTES
SUPPORT THE OVERALL REDUCTION INV.GOAL 16 PROVIDE SUPPORT FOR APPROVED STORMWATER BMP'S Frank Trinkle
16A Board Members to discuss ideas or programs that can support their implementation, especially those under
public participation and outreach.
Public Works Dept. Stormwater
Division City SW Dept Website May 31, Annually
16B Develop outreach materials to improve public understanding of BMP's and LID's in relation to the Stormwater Fee
Credit Program.
Community Development Dept.;
Communications & Social Media
Coordinator; Public Works Dept.
Stormwater Division
NRB GI/LID Website June 30, 2028
Outreach materials
provided by FT are
currently under review
with City Staff
GOAL 17 ASSIST IN THE CREATION OF TOOLKITS FOR GI BMPS AND PLANNING LID Thomas Carrano
17A Compile summaries and data on the most applicable practices for our City into toolkits that help to assess and
improve stormwater management.
Public Works Dept. Stormwater
Division NRB GI/LID Website November 30, 2025
Use 2024 Stormwater
Master Plan as a
Reference Point
17B Create a guide for residents to incorporate small-scale LID/GSI techniques onto their properties.Community Development Dept.February 28, 2026
17C
Create a guide for developers to incorporate LID/Green Stormwater Infrastructure techniques into the planning
and development of large-scale projects, including but not limited to site redevelopment, commercial properties,
and subdivisions.
Community Development Dept.February 28, 2027
17D Review GI Map of the City and determine where there may be an opportunity to enhance existing hubs and
cooridors, connect green spaces, and improve stormwater storage and treatment areas.X Community Development Dept.;
Public Works GIS Division City's GI Map January 31, Annually
Use 2024 Stormwater
Master Plan as a
Reference Point
GOAL 18 INCREASE EDUCATIONAL SIGNAGE AT CITY PARKS AND STORMWATER FEATURES Daniel Bruggen
18A Identify and prioritize the areas that require updated signage to recommend for implementation.Parks, Recreation, & Facilities Dept.,
Stormwater Division, City's Sign Shop August 31, Annually
Signage for Garden Club
Park determined as 1st
Priority
18B Research what pre-made signage is available and what what grant assistance may be available.X Parks, Recreation & Facilities Dept.;
Stormwater Division; City's Sign Shop Tulip Pond Info September 30, Annually
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 (BMP),
LOW IMPACT DESIGN (LID), AND GREEN
INFRASTRUCTURE (GI)
11-25-2025 NATURAL RESOURCES BOARD 5
SUSTAINABLE SEBASTIAN 5-YEAR IMPLEMENTATION PLAN 2.0
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SUPPORT THE OVERALL REDUCTION INVI.GOAL 19 SEEK OPPORTUNITIES TO CROSS MARKET THE CITY'S PARKS AND GREEN SPACES Deborah Shellenberger
19A Develop an ecology-focused eco-tourism guide.
Chamber of Commerce; Parks &
Recreation Advisory Committee; IRC
Conservation Lands Division
Sebastian River Area
Chamber of Commerce July 31, 2025
Preliminary concepts
under consideration with
staff.
19B Identify unique features of the City's spaces, including the local ecology, to develop promotions for each park and
property.
Parks & Recreation Advisory
Committee; Parks, Recreation, &
Facilities Dept.
eBird tracking website July 31, Annually
Protected species and/or
habitats, special services
provided
19C Research what certifications & designations are attainable.Parks, Recreation, & Facilities Dept.FL Nature Tracker Website June 30, Annually examples: Great Florida
Birding Trail
GOAL 20 INCREASE AWARENESS OF OUR LOCAL ECOLOGY AND ITS RELATIONSHIP TO OUR WAY OF LIFE HERE Matthew Krauss
20A Provide the public with information and resources on living alongside wildlife through posts on the City's social
media and website and in-person educational opportunities.
Communications & Social Media
Coordinator; Parks, Recreation, &
Facilities Dept.; Management
Information Systems
October 31, Annually 1st Species of focus:
Sandhill Cranes
20B Provide the public with information and resources on Noise Pollution, a non-material form of pollution.
Communications & Social Media
Coordinator; Parks, Recreation, &
Facilities Dept.
November 30, Annually
Preliminary oncepts
proposed to Staff for
review
20C Provide the public with information and resources on Light Pollution, a non-material form of pollution.
Communications & Social Media
Coordinator; Parks, Recreation, &
Facilities Dept.
December 31, Annually
Preliminary oncepts
proposed to Staff for
review
GOAL 21 ASSIST IN PLANNING COMMUNITY PRESENTATIONS & WORKSHOPS FROM GUEST SPEAKERS AND
CITY STAFF TO PROMOTE ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP WITHIN THE COMMUNITY Donna Ware
21A Identify the subject areas of greatest need for our community, and develop a priotized list of the subjects.
Parks, Recreation, & Facilities Dept.;
Communications & Social Media
Coordinator
December 1, Annually Met with SWDD regarding
workshops on Recycling
21B Develop a schedule for the prospective presentations & sessions.
Parks, Recreation, & Facilities Dept.;
Communications & Social Media
Coordinator
December 31, Annually Aiming for Fall 2025 for
1st Recycling Workshop
PROMOTE THE CITY'S OVERALL
LIVEABILITY THROUGH THE
PROMOTION OF ACTIVE
TRANSPORATION, INCREASING
CONNECTIVITY AMONG TRAILS AND
PATHWAYS, AND PROMOTING NATURE-
BASED TOURISM
11-25-2025 NATURAL RESOURCES BOARD 6