November 13, 2026, Indian River Lagoon Council meeting

The Indian River Lagoon Council meeting on November 13, 2026, focused on lagoon conditions, program operations, and funding. Following heavy October and early-November rainfall, staff reported increased lagoon depths and freshwater flows, declining salinity, and potential effects on oysters and other habitats. The council also received updates on restoration, monitoring, and community projects; no major project awards were announced in the transcript.

The council unanimously approved moving forward with an RFP for administrative and technical support to revise the Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan (CCMP). Staff anticipates a three-year contract and has budgeted approximately $60,000 for the first year, subject to budget availability; the previous revision cost just over $100,000. The council also approved the FY2026 final budget amendment, making minor adjustments for salaries and benefits and equipment maintenance using fund balance; the remaining fund balance was reported at more than $2.7 million. The transfer of administrative oversight of the Indian River Lagoon specialty license plate from the South Florida Water Management District to the council was recommended and included in the unanimously approved consent agenda. The transfer does not change the plate’s $25 cost, and staff described how revenues would continue to be allocated by county for projects.