St. Johns County BCC Meeting Livestream

The St. Johns County Board of County Commissioners held a meeting on June 2, 2026, which included extensive discussions on several procurement and budget-related topics. A significant portion of the meeting focused on an unsolicited proposal from Mel Brothers to design, build, and operate a bio solids facility to address the county's bio solids disposal challenges. The proposal was presented in detail, highlighting the current crisis due to limited disposal options, escalating costs, and odor issues from the existing Indian Head biomass facility. Commissioners debated the merits of the proposal, with concerns raised about transparency, cost estimates (ranging from $34.6 million to over $54 million), potential environmental impacts, and the need for a competitive bidding process. Ultimately, the board voted unanimously (5-0) to accept the unsolicited proposal and directed staff to conduct a competitive procurement to solicit alternate proposals. Additionally, the sheriff presented a budget proposal requesting a 5.6% increase primarily for pay raises and operational costs, including funding for school resource deputies and crossing guards. The board also discussed the county attorney's contract amendment requiring a supermajority vote for termination without cause, which prompted debate and a consensus to seek an Attorney General opinion on its legality. Other agenda items included land development code amendments, a franchise agreement with Florida Power & Light, and updates on a fire rescue training facility funded by a $7.5 million state grant. The meeting concluded with a budget overview and discussion of the potential impacts of upcoming property tax reforms, emphasizing the need for public education on the issue and internal county preparations for possible revenue reductions.