Subject:
Title
Approval, Ordinance to place a referendum on the November 3, 2026, ballot to renew the 1/2-cent infrastructure sales tax for the Save Our Indian River Lagoon Program
End
Fiscal Impact:
Extending the 1/2-cent sales tax for 10 years is anticipated to raise about $800 million for the Save Our Indian River Lagoon Trust Fund
Dept/Office:
Natural Resources
Requested Action:
Recommendation
It is requested that the BOCC consider the following actions:
1. Approve an ordinance for a voter referendum to renew the 1/2-cent infrastructure sales tax for the Save Our Indian River Lagoon Program;
2. Approve extension of the existing sales tax use and distribution Interlocal Agreement with municipalities, subject to voter approval of the sales tax renewal; and
3. Approve ballot language for the November 2026 General Election.
End
Summary Explanation and Background:
The Save Our Indian River Lagoon (SOIRL) Program was created with the 1/2 cent sales tax that Brevard County residents voted to impose on themselves in 2016. The program is designed to address excess nutrient pollution of the Indian River Lagoon. The program funds various projects to reduce pollution inputs, remove legacy loads of pollution, and restore natural filtration systems.
The 1/2-cent infrastructure sales tax has provided a dedicated funding source for local projects planned to meet water quality targets and improve the health, productivity, aesthetic appeal, and economic value of the lagoon. This referendum funding also allows the County to leverage additional dollars in match funding from state and federal grant programs because the lagoon ecosystem is valued not only in Florida, but also nationally.
The SOIRL Program has completed many projects including wastewater treatment plant upgrades, septic to sewer conversions, septic upgrades, stormwater treatments, muck removal projects, and restoration of oysters and clams that filter the water. As a result, excess nitrogen levels in the ...
Click here for full text