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Natural Resources Board backs resolution committing City of Sebastian to reduce single-use plastics
Summary
The City of Sebastian Natural Resources Board voted to forward a resolution to City Council that affirms the city's commitment to reduce single-use plastics and polystyrene; the board framed the measure as a non‑ban first step and requested further outreach to local businesses and partners.
The City of Sebastian Natural Resources Board voted Tuesday to recommend that City Council consider a resolution committing the city to reduce single‑use plastics and polystyrene.
Board staff member Felicia (city staff liaison to the Natural Resources Board) told the board that Charles, the board’s Sustainable Sebastian champion, prepared an initial draft and that staff had edited the text before the meeting. Felicia said the resolution “doesn’t include a ban because we really can’t ban anything,” and described the measure as a “good first step” to set procurement practices for city properties, parks and events and to provide an example for residents and businesses.
Board members discussed outreach and education alongside the policy language. One member suggested including information about reuse options for polystyrene packing peanuts and other shipping materials so residents could repurpose or donate them rather than discard them. Board members asked staff about engaging local businesses and chambers of commerce and noted existing programs in neighboring South Florida cities and Vero Beach’s Coastal Connections RAP program as models for coordination.
At the meeting a board member moved to present the resolution to City Council and another board member seconded the motion. The board approved the recommendation by voice vote. Felicia said staff will prepare a staff report for City Council; board members were invited but not required to attend the council presentation.
The board emphasized that the resolution avoids an outright ban — which members said could raise legal limits on municipal authority — and instead focuses on city operations, procurement and voluntary partnerships with businesses and neighboring municipalities. Felicia told the board the draft has gone through the city’s legal review before being brought to the Natural Resources Board.
A “Votes at a glance” summary of formal motions at the meeting: the board approved the minutes of Sept. 2, 2025; the board voted to forward the Sustainable Sebastian resolution committing the city to reduce single‑use plastics and polystyrene to City Council; and the meeting was adjourned following routine motions.
The board asked staff to notify members when the item is scheduled before City Council so they may appear as citizens if they wish; no further deadlines for the resolution were specified at the meeting.
