Subject:
Title
Discussion, re: Amendment to SOIRL project plan to include a Green Stormwater Infrastructure Grant program
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Fiscal Impact:
None. The funding for this program would come from reallocating existing funds in the SOIRL project plan.
Dept/Office:
D3 Commission Office
Requested Action:
Recommendation
It is requested that the Board provide staff direction to expand SOIRL project plan with an amendment to include a Green Stormwater Infrastructure grant program for homeowners, businesses, non-profits, churches, and HOA’s to be funded by reallocating a portion of the SOIRL revenue allocated to future stormwater projects.
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Summary Explanation and Background:
Green Stormwater Infrastructure (GSI) uses a nature-based approach to manage stormwater, reduce runoff volumes, and improve water quality. GSI practices can slow, capture, infiltrate, and filter stormwater runoff, allowing natural processes to reduce freshwater volume and nutrient loads before they reach the Indian River Lagoon. Examples of GSI practices include rain barrels, bioswales, raingardens, French drains, tree plantings, vegetation buffers, aquatic plants, and floating wetlands.
In 2026, the Citizen Oversight Committee recommended adding GSI as a new project type to the 2027 Project Plan and expanding eligibility to private property owners, including homeowners, businesses, churches, not-for profit organizations, and homeowner associations. The expanded program would be intended to reduce stormwater runoff and associated nutrient pollution from privately owned properties within the Indian River Lagoon watershed.
The GSI program could accept applications year-round with terms and conditions for each project type. Requirements would include minimum project dimensions, maximum SOIRL cost-shares, site location, restrictions, installation standards, and project completion and verification requirements. Eligible applicants would be reimbursed up to the amount spent or the maximum cost-...
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