Raintree Corners Homeowners Request Special Assessment for Culvert Replacement Project

The Indian River County Board of County Commissioners convened on August 19, 2025, to discuss several agenda items, with a significant focus on the Raintree Corners special assessment request.

The meeting began with a presentation by Stan Ullie, the Assistant Public Works Director, who outlined the urgent need for a culvert replacement in the Raintree Corners subdivision, which consists of 16 homes located at the intersection of Twelfth Street and Fourth Avenue. The existing culvert has suffered severe structural degradation, culminating in a failure during a recent rain event that obstructed vehicular access. Temporary measures, including the placement of a steel plate, have been implemented, but these are not sustainable solutions.

Ullie explained that the homeowners have engaged contractors and engineers to address the issue, coordinating with the Indian River Farms Water Control District and Indian River County Engineering. The district has mandated that the current 60-inch culvert be replaced with an 84-inch reinforced concrete pipe, significantly increasing the project's estimated cost to over $300,000. Due to the high expenses, many homeowners are unable to pay the full amount upfront, prompting them to request the establishment of a special assessment to fund the culvert replacement.

The proposed special assessment would be added to the residents' tax bills, which would incur additional fees: a 2% fee for the appraiser and tax collector, and a 5% fee for noncollectibles as per Florida statute. The Raintree Homeowners Association has submitted documentation supporting the request, including a letter signed by 12 of the 16 homeowners, necessary permits, and a construction proposal.

Ullie recommended that the Board authorize the creation of the special assessment to facilitate the culvert replacement, emphasizing the urgency of the situation to ensure safe access to the subdivision. If approved, the staff will prepare an initial assessment resolution and seek bids for the construction work.

Additionally, Ullie noted that there is a verbal commitment from eight homeowners to pay their share upfront, with efforts underway to secure the remaining signatures needed for full support from all homeowners.

The meeting underscored the importance of addressing infrastructure needs in the community and the collaborative efforts of residents and county officials to find a viable solution. The Board's decision on the special assessment request will determine the next steps in the culvert replacement project.