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Improving Water Quality, Storage and Infrastructure
Chapter 298 Special District
Chapter 298 allows the District to:
Develop, operate and maintain drainage infrastructure Assess non ad‐valorem taxes to pay for the work
Under Chapter 298, the District must:
Amend its water control plan at least every five years Outline all existing and future changes to their system
with a proven benefit to the land before the improvements can be built
Creation and Governance
- On May 5, 1958, Lehigh Corporation created the political sub‐
division of the State of Florida, under Chapter 298, known as East County Water Control District (ECWCD).
- ECWCD’s five‐member Board of Commissioners are
popularly elected during general election cycles popularly elected during general election cycles.
- ECWCD’s current operating budget is $5.5 million a year
ECWCD Board Of Commissioners
Mike Bonacolta, Chairman
- J. Nathan Stout, Vice‐Chairman
Ken Thompson, Treasurer Michael Welch, Secretary David Deetscreek,Commissioner
Funding
How are we funded?
- Independent Special Tax District
- Collection of an acreage tax;
- Whether you live on a canal or not,
everyone pays the same flat rate
Acre Lot: $105.15 Half Acre:
everyone pays the same flat rate. Why tax?
- To provide the necessary drainage and flood
- Control protection to local residents.
$52.58 ¼ Acre: $26.29
EAST COUNTY WATER CONTROL DISTRICT
311 miles of canals 20 lakes 360 culvert crossings 22 bridges 66 water control
structures
1298 preserve acres,
including the 598 acres Harns Marsh.