Okaloosa County BOCC — October 23, 2014 — VI.c. FWC Reef Grant $140K

TOURIST DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT MEMORANDUM DATE: October 23, 2014 TO: Tourist Development Council FROM: Ed Schroeder, Tourist Development Department Director Anthony Austermann, Marine Economic & Tourist Development Resource Coord SUBJECT: Artificial Reef Construction Grant – FWC Agreement No. 13243 Background The County has determined that constructing artificial reefs will promote tourism by offering diving, snorkeling, and fishing activities. The FY 2014-15 budget includes $100,000 for Artificial Reef for Fishing Industry Support (account 1175-563753). Discussion The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has awarded Okaloosa County $140,000 for the construction of two artificial reef systems within the Gulf of Mexico at two permitted nearshore artificial reef areas known as Fish Havens 13 and 14. The project will be utilizing Air Force Research Lab (AFRL) and Eglin AFB donated concrete target materials. The County will be matching the grant with $100,000 approved for artificial reefs during the budget process. TDC Recommendation to BCC Recommend approval of the 2014-2015 Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Artificial Reef Construction Grant – FWC Agreement No. 13243.