October 12, 2026 - Special Council Workshop

The City of Sebastian held a special council workshop on October 12, 2026, to review Indian River County’s septic-to-sewer feasibility study. County staff and consultant AtkinsRéalis presented a conceptual buildout for 10,661 properties, estimating approximately 1.66 million gallons per day of wastewater flow and comparing gravity and low-pressure sewer systems. The rough-order-of-magnitude estimates included public-side gravity-system costs of about $431 million in current dollars ($544 million with 20-year escalation) and low-pressure costs of about $148 million ($180 million escalated); estimated private-side costs were also presented. The study modeled a 20-year phased construction schedule, and officials emphasized that costs could vary substantially pending design. No contract award, spending authorization, or other procurement vote was taken at the workshop; the consultant had been engaged to perform the study.

Discussion focused on affordability, funding, and the 2030 requirements under state law for septic upgrades or sewer connection where available. Residents raised concerns about household costs, contractor capacity, enforcement, and access to grants. Council members and county officials discussed seeking state and grant funding, advocating for changes or extensions to the mandate, and the need for further planning; the council encouraged residents to contact state officials and support a petition. No formal action or motion was recorded.