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discussed the streamlined process for homeowners, financial incentives to connect, and assisting the homeowners to connect by using Martin County Utilities' licensed contractors. He reviewed the comprehensive funding plan for the program through dedicated County funding, federal, state, and local grants, a 10 -year Capital Facilities Plan for multi-year state funding, interdepartmental coordination to reduce costs and impact, multi-year capital improvement planning, and the Solar Energy Loan Fund (SELF) program. He informed there would be follow-up studies to measure nutrient loads before, during, and after connection and discussed the program's success. 9. Discussion Items a. Tri -County Guiding Principles Ms. Kathleen Keenan, Legislative Affairs & Communications Manager, Indian River County; Nicole Fogarty, Legislative Affairs Director, St. Lucie County; and Kloee Ciuperger, Legislative Coordinator, Martin County presented the following Tri -County Guiding Principles in an effort to streamline and optimize the annual Legislative Program going forward for the three counties. 1. The Three Counties support Home Rule, oppose Unfunded Mandates, and oppose efforts to reduce local government revenue sources or limit flexibility in how they are spent. 2. The Three Counties support efforts and investment in Economic Development initiatives that both contribute to the further diversification of our state and local economies, and support tourism and cultural foundations upon which so much of our regional impact depends. 3. The Three Counties support key investments into Environmental and Natural Resources that protect Florida's fragile environment, strengthen our resilience against the impacts of climate change, and address the stresses and impacts of continued growth on our Lagoon, lakes, rivers, streams, beaches, and ocean. 4. The Three Counties support robust investment in public infrastructure that supports both planned and potential growth, strengthens transportation and communication networks, and provides greater mobility and accessibility for our residents. 5. The Three Counties support better partnership and cost share of critical public health and human services. In reference to the No. 3 Guiding Principles, a proposed Thank You Letter to Governor DeSantis for the Indian River Lagoon Wastewater Funding was included to be signed by the Chairman for each of the three counties. There was a consensus to take the Tri -County Guiding Principles and the Thank You Letter to Governor DeSantis back to their respective Boards for approval.