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Tourism is one of the largest sectors of the local economy in Indian River County. According to an economic study prepared by the Center for Tourism Research & Development from the University - of Florida , tourism provides an economic impact of $ 154 million annually in Indian River County. The most common activity for tourists in the County was visiting the beach (69%) . Accordingly , loss of sand and access to beaches would clearly have the effect of reducing tourism along the County' s 22 . 4 miles of shoreline . Environmental Impacts : Indian River County is home to the Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge , which is one of the largest sea turtle nesting beaches within the Western Hemisphere . In fact, we have seen increasing sea turtle nesting numbers the last few years . With the recent FEMA denial , Indian River County is not financially able to fully repair the $ 9 . 6 million in beach damages without funding assistance from the State , thereby affecting our local tourism . The FEMA denial not only affects Indian River County but all non -federal beach and dune nourishment projects from Brevard thru Broward , total estimated damages of over $50 million , by leaving them in a state of disrepair and significantly vulnerable . The only remaining alternative is for the State to partner with the impacted local governments to assist in the funding of beach stabilization projects . i Chapter ' 161 of the Florida Statues provides a mechanism to provide up to a 75 % state funding match for emergency beach stabilization projects . Indian River County respectfully requests your assistance to work in concert with your colleagues in the Legislature to pass a special and separate appropriation under statewide beach management for FY 2013/14 . The damage to our statewide beaches not only jeopardizes public and private infrastructure , but impacts tourism as well . As detailed above , this action is essential in order to perform necessary beach repairs that are critical to the statewide economy and our community's health and safety , as well as important environmental considerations including sea turtle and shorebird nesting . Enclosed for your reference is our November 7 , 2012 Preliminary Damage Assessment Report documenting the immediate Post Hurricane Sandy beach damage throughout Indian River County . Thank you in advance for your assistance . Please let us know if there is anything you may need to further our request . Sincerely, f • eose ?hE . Flescher, Chairman Indian River County Board: of County Commissioners cc: Joseph A . Baird , Indian River County Administrator Enclosure : Indian River County Preliminary Damage Assessment Report; dated November 7 , 2012