INDIAN RIVER COUNTY — The St. Christopher Harbor Homeowners Association requested the Board of County Commissioners’ support in applying for a Florida Inland Navigation District Cost-Share Grant, and the approval of matching funds for Channel Restoration at Head Island.
The Homeowners Association requested matching funds in the amount of approximately $71,500.
After discussion, the Board unanimously approved the application of the grant and to provide cost-share assistance up to $37,500.
“I think this is a fair compromise at this time that we’re still asking the homeowners to put a little skin in it, but we’re still contributing up to $37,500 from the tax payers,” said Commissioner Peter O’Bryan.
Prior to the mid 1950s, Head Island was separated from the barrier island by a narrow channel according to the provided background information.
Also according to the background information, In June 2010, the Board conceptually approved a proposal to restore the channel for the purposes of returning the area to its natural condition. Additionally, the restoration would provide a passage to the north for boaters from the St. Christopher Harbor subdivision and other nearby homes, and ultimately reduce boater impact to lagoon resources in the area and improve water circulation.