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Ratification of Applications for Southwest Florida Water Management District Cooperative Funding Initiative Submittals for FY 2027
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BRIEF OVERVIEW
In accordance with the guidelines for submittal of the Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) Cooperative Funding Initiative applications, the Board is requested to approve the application for Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) revisions for three watershed projects in the 2027 budget cycle.
On October 2, 2025, the Department of Public Works submitted applications to the SWFWMD to request fiscal-year 2027 (FY27) funding through the Cooperative Funding Initiative (CFI) for Flood Insurance Rate Map revisions for the final three watershed locations, thus completing the County’s effort to bring all FIRMs into agreement with the SWFWMD Governing Board-approved regulatory models. The effort would result in updated FEMA approved flood insurance rate maps.
Project Name Hernando County SWFWMD Project Total
Squirrel Prairie Watershed $150,000 $150,000 $300,000
Peck Sink Watershed $ 75,000 $ 75,000 $150,000
Pithlachascotee Watershed $ 75,000 $ 75,000 $150,000
Total Cost Share: $300,000 $300,000 $600,000
Because of time constraints, the funding applications were approved by the County Administrator and submitted to SWFWMD.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
If awarded, the County will receive up to $300,000.00 towards total project costs of $600,000.00. The local match required is 50% of each project cost ($300,000 total) and would be funded by the Stormwater Management Municipal Services Taxing Unit (MSTU). If awarded, the County’s matching funds would be included in the FY 27 budget.
LEGAL NOTE
The Board is authorized to act upon this matter pursuant to Chapter 125, Florida Statutes.
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RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended the Board ratify the Southwest Florida Water Management District Cooperative Funding Initiatives application submittals and approve FY2027 funding for Flood Insurance Rate Map revisions for the Squirrel Prairie, Peck Sink, and Pithlachascotee Watersheds.