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BOOK 88 PVF,899 Congressman Bacchus indicated that he is attempting to attract attention to the Indian River Idea at the state and federal level. He met with representatives from the state and federal Departments of Education and discussed the need for funding the Indian River Idea. He is currently trying to get a planning grant from the National Science Foundation to make this a pilot project for a national program. Last year he succeeded in obtaining a $10 million grant for the State Department of Education to conduct a five-year study on how to make retain students' interest in math and science from preschool through 12th grade. He has urged the State Department of Education to incorporate the Indian River Idea in that project and provide some funding at the local level. Commissioner Macht asked Congressman Bacchus what his position is on the line item veto and the capital gains tax. Congressman Bacchus expected President Clinton's economic initiative package to include a reduction in capital gains tax on long-term investments. He was not as confident that the line item veto will be enacted, although he voted for it. There has been some discussion about the possibility of enhanced rescission, which is similar to the line item veto and might be a compromise. Commissioner Eggert mentioned the issue of utilities service to mobile home parks, and Congressman Bacchus advised he was planning to visit the New Horizons Mobile Home Park tomorrow. Commissioner Eggert expressed that the County has been looking for incentives that would attract new businesses. We are also concerned about the beaches, and have again applied for federal funding. Congressman Bacchus assured the Board that he has followed the beach issue closely and hopes the County and Vero Beach can reach agreement on a specific beach renourishment plan. He expressed doubt that federal funding will be forthcoming because a specific plan has not been formulated and there is opposition to beach renourishment within the community because of environmental issues. Discussion ensued regarding the scrub jay issue and Endangered Species Act, which is coming up for renewal, and the effect of such legislation on growth and the local economy. There was discussion about hurricanes and the fact that many people felt that the federal Emergency Management Association (FEMA) did not provide an adequate response to Hurricane Andrew. Congressman Bacchus predicted that the Clinton Administration will replace many of the current employees, who are there because of political patronage, with more qualified personnel. Vincent McCann, Veterans Services Officer, asked for an update on the proposed Veterans Hospital. 6