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Legislative Priorities And The County's Position <br />1. Indian River Lagoon <br />Background: The 156 -mile -long Indian River Lagoon ("Lagoon") is one of the most biodiverse ecosystems in <br />the nation and is a treasure for the State of Florida. The Lagoon provides an economic benefit by promoting <br />tourism and creating recreational opportunities for residents. The Lagoon is also an important element in the <br />protection of our environment, including endangered and protected plant and animal populations. <br />As guardian of 22 miles of the Lagoon, Indian River County ("County") has been a pioneer for the development <br />and deployment of new water quality technologies. Using a mixture of Optional Sales Tax, Utilities funds, and <br />grant funding, the County has invested over $29 million dollars on four infrastructure projects aimed at improv- <br />ing the health of the Lagoon. Collectively, the County's projects have removed over 128,000 pounds of Total <br />Nitrogen and over 29,000 pounds of Total Phosphorus from canals which lead to the Lagoon. <br />The County hopes to continue its partnership with the State of Florida on future ventures that will reduce the <br />nutrient load in the Lagoon so future generations can enjoy this natural wonder. <br />Position: Indian River County BCC SUPPORTS policies that will enhance the economic wellbeing of Indian <br />River County by treating and monitoring the health of the Lagoon; and SUPPORTS the Governor's Legislative <br />Budget Request for $150 million granted to septic to sewer conversion projects near Florida's estuaries. <br />131 <br />5 <br />