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Sebastian, Indian River County sign interlocal to convert CRA septic systems to sewer; city pledges up to $100,000 for materials
Summary
City and county approved an interlocal agreement to extend sewer mains into the Community Redevelopment Area to connect about 96 properties on septic; city will contribute up to $100,000 from General Fund reserves for materials and staff said an ordinance requiring connection will be proposed.
The City of Sebastian and Indian River County approved an interlocal agreement to extend county sewer into the city’s Community Redevelopment Area, a project staff said will allow about 96 properties currently on septic to connect to county sewer mains.
City staff presented the agreement as a partnership: the county will install mains and the city will assist with obtaining easements and public outreach. The city also committed “up to $100,000” from General Fund reserves to pay for materials, staff said; the agreement divides material costs into two exhibits — one for segments that require easements and one for segments that fit within the right of way.
The project originated from a council directive and earlier feasibility work. City staff said the arrangement is intended to prioritize “the most vulnerable” septic systems that staff and commissioners described as contributing the greatest nitrogen loading to the Indian River lagoon.
County representatives at the meeting thanked city staff and council. Sean Leeskey, identified as director of utility services for Indian River County, said the county is “happy to be partners” and looks forward to starting work. Chair Fletcher, representing the county, said the project will prevent “over 10,000 pounds” of nitrogen from reaching the river based on materials provided to the council.
Council members voted unanimously to approve the interlocal. Roll call recorded “yes” votes from Council members Dixon, Dodd, Nunn, Vice Mayor Jones and Mayor McPartland.
City staff said engineering evaluations and a roofer’s assessment have been completed and that a future staff presentation will return to council with detailed cost figures. Staff also said it will prepare an ordinance requiring properties to connect to sewer once they obtain access to the new mains.
The agreement sets the framework for county construction (staff noted a July target for breaking ground) and for the city to assist with easements and resident outreach; it also provides that if material costs exceed the $100,000 allocation the county will provide documentation and request additional funding from the city.
The project will be implemented in phases tied to county permitting and construction schedules, staff said. The council resolution and interlocal passed on voice and roll-call votes during the meeting.
Proposed next steps announced at the meeting included publishing maps of planned mains (exhibit 1 in the packet) to the city website and returning with a formal ordinance requiring connection when sewer is available.
