The Suwannee River Water Management District governing board adopted its FY 2008-09 Budget and Work Plan at its meeting Tuesday in Live Oak.
The approved budget calls for a millage rate of 0.4399 mills, or about 44 cents per $1,000 of assessed property value. This rate remains unchanged from FY 2007-08. There are no new staff positions; therefore the District’s staffing level will remain at 68 for the 18th consecutive year.
The total approved FY 2008-09 budget is $69.8 million, reflecting a decrease of more than $12 million or a 15 percent decrease from FY 2007-08 budget of $81.9 million.
This year’s budget highlights several programs of interest to the District including:
· Implementation of The Ichetucknee Partnership (TIP) involving local, voluntary and incentive based initiatives to support wise springshed management within the Ichetucknee Springshed.
· Update and automation of digital Flood Insurance Rate Maps through funding provided by the Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA).
· Continuation of the land acquisition and management program which includes funds for the Suwannee River Wilderness Trail, R.O. Ranch equestrian center and restoration projects.
· Continued development of potable water, stormwater and wastewater systems through the Quality Communities program for 34 communities in the District.
· Continued support for the Suwannee River Partnership cost-share program to aid farmers in protecting springs and other water resources through reducing nutrient loads and improving water conservation.
Work will continue to establish minimum flows and levels (MFLs) for rivers and springs, as will data collection for the District’s rainfall, groundwater and surface water monitoring networks.