After a great deal of input from the public and appeals from several environmental non-profit organizations, the Martin County Commission held off on adopting potentially harmful changes to the County’s Comprehensive Growth Management Plan.
On Tuesday, November 16th, the commission unanimously agreed to delay the proposed elimination of language in Chapter 2, that summarizes policies related to quality of life, natural resources, economic growth, and fiscal management.
Thanks to those who spoke at the commission meeting and sent emails opposing the proposed changes. Thank you to the President of 1000 Friends Of Florida, Paul Owens, who made the trip from Tallahassee to speak against the changes while invoking the name of Nathaniel Reed, co-founders of 1000 Friends of Florida. Greg Braun, Executive Director of the Guardians of Martin County, underscored the importance of keeping our Comp Plan strong. “The Plan is what keeps our property values high and makes us the envy of other more densely populated counties.” Finally, a big thank you to Commissioners who listened to their constituents.
Commissioners did vote to add a new property rights element to the Comp Plan, a requirement under a state law passed earlier this year. However, any additional changes will be discussed and shared with the public in a series of future workshops.
Read more here.
On Friday, November 19th, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE) completed the $339 million project in Martin County, known as the C-44
The ACOE along with local and state officials cut the ribbon on the C-44 Reservoir & STA.
Photo: ACOE
Reservoir and Stormwater Treatment Area. The reservoir will capture, store, and clean water runoff before it flows into the St. Lucie River and ultimately the Indian River Lagoon. It’s hoped this will also reduce harmful algae blooms.
The ACOE and local officials cut the ribbon on the 12,000-acre project, which is a key part of a broader effort to restore the Florida Everglades.