Big Cypress Basin Board advances $23.6m FY27 budget with $7.4m for capital projects

Big Cypress Basin Board advances $23.6m FY27 budget with $7.4m for capital projectsThe South Florida Water Management District sub-board voted 5-1 to maintain its current millage rate, securing funding for flood control, the Picayune Strand restoration, and upcoming weir infrastructure.

Board members approved a $23.6 million budget and a steady millage rate of 0.0978 mills, generating $15.9 million in ad valorem taxes.

Capital projects account for 31% of the budget ($7.4 million), with an additional $4 million earmarked for the Picayune Strand restoration.

The basin is currently reserving operations and maintenance funds for the upcoming I-75 Weir 2 project, with bids expected imminently.

The financial approvals arrive as the basin navigates severe drought conditions, having recorded a 10-inch rainfall deficit that has forced a shift to strict water conservation operations.

On August 28, 2026, the Big Cypress Basin Board voted 5-1 to submit its $23.6 million budget for fiscal year 2026-2027 to the South Florida Water Management District. Board member Mr. Romano was the sole dissenting vote on both the budget and the associated millage rate. During the presentation, staff member Candida Heater confirmed the millage rate will remain flat at 0.0978 mills. This rate is projected to generate approximately $15.9 million, covering 68% of the basin's revenue. Additional funding includes a projected $3.3 million in federal reimbursements from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for Picayune Strand operations, as well as the utilization of $3.1 million in fund balances. The FY27 expenditures heavily target infrastructure and environmental restoration. Capital projects represent the largest expenditure category at $7.4 million, or 31% of the total budget. The Engineering, Construction, and Modeling division is allocated $9 million to execute the basin's work plan. Additionally, $6 million is dedicated to flood control operations and the service center, while $4 million is reserved for the Picayune Strand restoration. Heater also provided a mid-year financial update, noting the basin currently holds a $12 million balance in its operations and maintenance program. A portion of these funds is being reserved for the upcoming I-75 Weir 2 project, with contractor bids expected to be received shortly. The infrastructure investments are set against a backdrop of severe regional drought. Water manager Brad Jackson reported a 10-inch rainfall deficit for the wet season, forcing the basin to abandon standard flood control operations in favor of strict water conservation. Discharge volumes have plummeted to retain water in the canal system; the GG1 structure has released less than 20,000 acre-feet of water this year, compared to 160,000 acre-feet in 2024. The operational shift is designed to recharge surficial aquifers and prevent saltwater intrusion while the basin awaits beneficial rainfall.