Yes. The Town Commission may modify the funding approach based on program needs, legal requirements, and community input.
Does this mean my taxes will increase?
If the program is approved, property owners may see a separate line item on their tax bill related to the Navigation Maintenance Program. The specific funding amounts and structure would be determined through the public process and Town Commission action.
Has a funding amount been decided?
No. No final funding amounts or assessments have been adopted at this time. The purpose of the briefing meetings is to share information, explain potential funding approaches, and gather community input.
How are dredging priorities determined?
Priorities are based on water depth data, navigational access, safety considerations, and environmental factors.
How can I contribute to healthier waterways?
Individuals can do their part by keeping unwanted contaminants out of the waterways. This can include:
Manage Yard Waste& Reducing Runoff- Limit introduction of organic materials, like grass clippings, picking up after pets, covering bare patches of soil, aerating lawns. and keeping debris from entering storm drains and waterways.
Know When to Fertilize - Fertilizing increases fertilizer loads into the waterways. Per Town Code section 102.2 – No fertilizers containing nitrogen or phosphorous shall be applied to turf or landscaping plants during the restricted period of June 1 through September 30.
How can I learn more or provide input?
Residents are encouraged to attend one of the briefing sessions, ask questions, and share feedback. Questions may also be directed to CanalDredging@longboatkey.org or by calling 941-893-1632.
How can I see what amount my home would be assessed?
You can use the interactive map located on the Town’s website to enter your address and see the amount that has ‘tentatively’ been estimated for your location.
How does the program address seagrasses & environmental resources?
A rigorous permitting process is followed to ensure environmental protection. Seagrass mitigation is required for certain locations and would yield a net gain for regional resources. The removal of nutrient-laden sediments is beneficial to water quality.
How is ‘benefit’ defined for assessment purposes?
Benefits are evaluated based on navigability, water circulation, environmental health, and overall system functionality, using legal standards and best practices.
How long does dredging typically take?
Project duration varies by location and conditions, but work is completed as efficiently as possible.
How often would dredging occur?
Dredging would occur on a planned, as-needed basis based on sediment levels, navigational needs, and environmental conditions.
How would the program be funded?
If adopted, funding for the Navigation Maintenance Program would be reflected on the annual property tax bill and may include both ad valorem taxes and non-ad valorem assessments, consistent with Florida law.
Is participation mandatory?
If adopted, the program would apply as approved by the Town Commission in accordance with state law.
What are the next steps after the briefings?
Community feedback will help refine program details before any future Town Commission consideration.
What are the next steps in the process?
The Town will be conducting several briefing sessions for residents to come and learn about the project and proposed funding.
What happens after the briefings?
No. The town briefing meetings are informational only. No formal decisions or votes will occur. Feedback received will help inform future recommendations to the Town Commission.
What if a property owner disagrees with the assessment?
Property owners would have opportunities for input and statutory notice and appeal procedures if assessments are adopted.
What is the Waterway Navigation Maintenance Program?
The Navigation Maintenance Program is a proposed, town-wide initiative to provide routine maintenance and dredging of waterways to preserve navigability, protect property values, and support the environmental health of the Town’s waterways.
When would the program begin and initial dredging occur?
If the program funding methodology is approved and adopted through public hearing by the Commission, the collection would start in November of 2026 on the property tax bills. The plan is to collect revenues over an initial 5-year period prior to construction, however, once funds are sufficient to move forward with the continued design/construction management, actual construction, and mitigation area creation/monitoring, we could start sooner. This is estimated to be around year 3, post collection. In addition, the Town applied for a Congressional appropriation, through WRDA 2026 to try to jumpstart this effort. The Town is also considering the option of taking out a short-term loan to help accelerate this timeline, but this would increase the cost of the assessments.
When would the Town Commission take action?
No dates have been set, most likely in May or June 2026. Any action would occur at a publicly noticed meeting.
Where does shoaling come from?
Shoaling is usually the result of sediment transport within the bay from upland resources. Wave action along embankments, stormwater runoff, and natural transport mechanisms are usual contributors.
Where will additional information be posted?
Updates will be shared through the Town's website and all official communication channels.
Which waterways are included in the program?
This program includes most public waterways within the town limits that are not federally maintained. Specific locations and priorities would be determined through technical evaluation.
Who would benefit from the program?
The program is intended to benefit the entire community by maintaining safe and navigable waterways, supporting property values, improving water circulation, and enhancing the overall coastal character of the Town.
Why is a Waterway Navigation Maintenance Program needed?
Over time, waterways naturally accumulate sediment and debris called shoaling, which can reduce water depth, restrict navigation, and impact water quality. A planned maintenance program allows the Town to address these issues proactively rather than through sporadic or emergency efforts.
Why is the program proposed as a town-wide approach?
Waterways function as an interconnected network supporting navigation, water quality, stormwater management, and community character. A town-wide approach promotes fairness, consistency, and long-term planning, while avoiding piecemeal or reactive maintenance efforts.
Will all properties pay the same amount?
The Town is evaluating fair and equitable methods for funding. Any final assessment structure would be developed in compliance with state law and presented to the public before adoption.
Will decisions be made at the town briefings?
No. The town briefing meetings are informational only. No formal decisions or votes will occur. Feedback received will help inform future recommendations to the Town Commission.
Will dredging disrupt boat traffic or residents?
Temporary disruptions may occur. Advance notice would be provided, and efforts would be made to minimize impacts.
Will the cost increase over time?
Funding levels would be reviewed periodically through the Town's public budget process. Any changes would require Town Commission consideration and public notice.
Will this affect property values?
Maintaining navigable and healthy waterways is generally supportive of property values and community appeal.
Will waterfront and non-waterfront properties be assessed differently?
The Town is evaluating funding methods that are fair and equitable under Florida law. Any final structure would be based on demonstrated benefit and presented publicly before adoption.
