MARTIN COUNTY, Fla. — The start of the 2019 Florida Legislative Session is just weeks away, and protecting our paradise from red tide and blue-green algae will be top priorities.
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On Tuesday, Martin County leaders will discuss their septic to sewer conversion program as well.
Tom Nolin at Riverland Marina has always been supportive of finding ways to prevent Lake Okeechobee discharges, but realizes there’s another problem.
"Whatever money we need to budget for cleaning up septic," said Nolin.
Scientists say fecal pollution from septic tanks feeds algae blooms.
Phillip Keathley with Martin County Utilities and Solid Waste is working on septic to sewer conversions. The county board may vote to put more funds in. About $4 million in legislative support would make a big difference.
"If we get some legislative grants we can try to level out the assessments," said Keathley.
But it’s not just conversion funding that Martin County leaders will keep an eye on.
"Completing Everglades Restoration Projects and C44 projects," said Deputy County Administrator Don Donaldson.
County leaders will continue to ask for legislative support every year until completing their goal of converting more than 10,000 septic tanks.
