Vero Beach City Council approves new fertilizer restrictions, regulates e-cigarettes

Reducing storm water runoff from draining canals such as the one pictured above, eliminating septic tanks near the Lagoon and canals and restricting fertilizers are, according to experts, the only three approaches to reversing the decline of the Lagoon. — Reducing storm water runoff from draining canals such as the one pictured above, eliminating septic tanks near the Lagoon and canals and restricting fertilizers are, according to experts, the only three realistic approaches to reversing the decline of the Lagoon.

By unanimous vote, the Vero Beach City Council approved a new fertilizer ordinance Tuesday evening. The Council agreed to match more stringent regulations approved by the Indian River County Commission in August.

Acknowledging arguments for and against regulations designed to reduce nitrogen pollution in the lagoon, Council member Pilar Turner said, “It is important to error on the side of the lagoon.”

Faced with similar objections from the fertilizer and lawn maintenance industry, the Sebastian City Council recently refused by a vote of 4 to 1 to approve stronger regulations matching the County’s ordinance. Newly re-elected Sebastian City Council member Andrea Coy said last week she hopes the county’s largest city will reconsider its position.

Vero Beach’s new fertilizer ordinance, intended to reduce stormwater runoff into the Lagoon, bans applications during the rainy season (June through September) and requires all fertilizer be composed of at least 50 percent slow-release nitrogen.

In other action Tuesday evening, the Council voted unanimously to restrict the sale of electronic cigarettes and liquid nicotine products. The new ordinance, which prohibits merchants from selling e-cigarettes or liquid nicotine products to minors, will go into effect Dec. 19.

The Council’s action also prohibits merchants from selling e-cigarettes and liquid nicotine products in open displays, essentially limiting their availability to display cases and behind-the-counter sales.

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