CEPD hears of apportionment, OKs economist
The Captiva Erosion Prevention District’s (CEPD) commission was updated on the apportionment for the beach renourishment during its recent meeting, as well as heard about a staffer soon leaving.
On June 8, CEPD General Manager Brighton Heard reported that staff expect to have the final apportionment for last year’s beach project ready for the board’s review at its July meeting.
Additionally, staff had previously been directed to identify a new economist or other qualified professional to assist with completing and certifying the final apportionment. For more than a dozen years, economist Dr. William Stronge had done so for the CEPD but is retiring as a consultant.
Heard recommended contracting with Governmental Management Services (GMS) for the work.
A motion for GMS to replace Stronge was approved unanimously 4-0.
Also at the meeting, Heard submitted his two weeks’ notice to the commission.
He reported that he has received another job opportunity in Louisiana.
Heard’s last day will be June 19.
“I want to thank you,” Chairman Bob Walter said. “I think you’ve done an incredible job.”
“I wish you the best,” he added.
Also during the meeting, the commissioners voted 4-0 on a resolution approving an agreement with APTIM Coastal Planning & Engineering in the amount of $37,847 to assist with completing the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s Local Government Funding Request (LGFR) for 2027-28.
Also at the meeting, consultant Nick Matthews provided a legislative update.
He reported that the CEPD secured $250,000 — out of its $500,000 ask — for supplemental dune plantings in the General Appropriations Act, which was waiting on the governor’s signature.
The funding will be used to further enforce the dunes with mixed vegetation.
After a discussion among the commission, a motion to have Matthews look into the potential for federal funding for future renourishment projects and related opportunities was approved 4-0.
Those duties had previously been assigned to another part-time consultant.
To reach TIFFANY REPECKI / trepecki@breezenewspapers.com, please email