TO: Indian River County Board of County Commissioners
THROUGH: John Titkanich, County Administrator
Kylie Yanchula, Natural Resources Director
FROM: Sean Lieske, Department of Utility Services Director
SUBJECT: Florida Gulf Coast University Water Quality Survey Participation Agreement
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BACKGROUND
In late February, the Florida Gulf Coast University sent a request to the County Administrator seeking the County's participation in a statewide Water Quality Study survey. The survey is structured to gather data related to water quality projects across Florida in an effort to evaluate the potential for regional projects that will help reduce nutrient loading, sedimentation, and hazardous algal blooms within water bodies throughout the state of Florida.
ANALYSIS
Florida Gulf Coast University anticipates the survey taking upwards of 20 to 30 hours for respondents to complete the full questionnaire; therefore, the University is offering participants $10,000 in exchange for their participation in the survey. In order for the County to be eligible to receive the funding, the County must enter into a Participation Agreement with Florida Gulf Coast University. The agreement specifies the County's willingness to respond to the survey by no later than March 27, 2026 and requires the County to submit the completed survey, along with an invoice and a signed W-9 by the deadline in order to receive the agreed upon amount.
BUDGETARY IMPACT
Proceeds, in the amount of $10,000 for completing this survey, will be deposited into the MSTU Fund/Other Miscellaneous Revenues account, number 004038-369900.
STRATEGIC PLAN ALIGNMENT
Environment: Advancing responsible environmental stewardship by protecting, conserving, managing natural resources, and fostering environmental awareness.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends the Board approve the Participation Agreement for the Florida Gulf Coast University survey...
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