news release

Four environmental groups today issued a joint statement critical of the city of Sebastian and the Graves Brothers for not preparing a detailed plan for the 1,984 acres proposed to be annexed to the city. The environmental groups argue that there should be a plan based upon community input and collaboration with local and state agencies, one that protects the headwaters of the St. Sebastian River, provides for known residential capacities, development patterns, open-space locations, and community amenities.

The four environmental groups are Friends of St. Sebastian River, Pelican Island Audubon Society, Indian River Neighborhood Association and Clean Water Coalition of Indian River County. They are concerned about the future impact on our community of the proposed Graves Bros. annexation to the city of Sebastian and the impact on Indian River county as a whole.

“We have urged the City Council to hire a qualified consultant to guide the annexation process. We are also urging the city to draft a strong legal agreement that protects our quality of life and our pocketbooks. Furthermore, we want to see a land use plan that conserves large areas of open space to protect the headwaters of the St. Sebastian River. Finally, we want a planning process open to broad community input.” 

The full joint statement closes with an appeal for City residents to attend the 6:00 p.m. September 13 Sebastian City Council meeting as well as the 6:00 p.m. September 15 Planning & Zoning Meeting to have a voice in this issue that is certain to have a major impact on the community.