There was a meeting of the City Council on Tuesday this week. The sale of the Indian River Shore’s portion of Vero Electric to Florida Power and Light (FP&L) was the main topic. The Council approved the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between and the City and FP&L.

The MOU describes the steps needed to arrive at a Purchase and Sale Agreement of $30 million. The chambers were not full, but there seemed to be much more comment about consummating the agreement soon, rather than being cautious about the terms, price or effects on either the city’s finances or the remaining ratepayers.

A special meeting to appoint a law firm was scheduled for next week. Also, a joint Finance/Utility Commission meeting was scheduled for December 13th, which should provide a forum for airing the issues surrounding the sale.

One item was removed from the agenda that warrants attention. There was to be a discussion and a vote on an ordinance which clarified the ability of the Sewer and Water Department’s right to implement the STEP System on the Canopied Streets of Old Riomar.

The item was removed because the Council felt there was a need to have a detailed explanation of the system presented to the residents of these streets before any vote were taken. There is an understandable reluctance on behalf of the homeowners on these streets to allow construction that might harm the trees.

There is also an understanding at the Sewer and Water Department that damage to them is unacceptable, so it is best that both parties sit down and talk through the issues. A great solution.

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