St. Lucie County advances infrastructure surtax to 2026 ballot, targeting flood control and water quality

St. Lucie County advances infrastructure surtax to 2026 ballot, targeting flood control and water qualityThe Board of County Commissioners voted 3-2 to place a 0.5% local government infrastructure surtax on the November 2026 ballot, rejecting a proposal to delay the referendum until 2028.

The 0.5% surtax will fund infrastructure projects including neighborhood flood reduction and water quality improvements for the Indian River Lagoon.

Commissioners debated delaying the referendum to 2028 due to concerns over voter fatigue and a competing property tax amendment.

The board opted for the 2026 timeline to allow for a potential second attempt in 2028 if the initial measure fails.

St. Lucie County, Florida, is moving forward with a referendum on a 0.5% local government infrastructure surtax for the November 2026 ballot. The surtax is earmarked for a range of public works projects, specifically citing local water quality improvements—including protections for the Indian River Lagoon—and neighborhood flood control, alongside roadway upgrades. During an August 4 meeting, the Board of County Commissioners debated whether to delay the referendum until the 2028 general election. County Administrator George Landry had previously discussed the referendum's timing with the board, noting that placing the measure on the 2026 ballot could face headwinds due to a crowded ballot and a strong anti-tax sentiment among voters. However, the board ultimately voted 3-2 to retain the 2026 ballot schedule. Chair Jamie Fowler and Commissioners Larry Leet and Cathy Townsend supported the earlier date, arguing that it gives the county multiple chances to secure the funding. "I feel that if we put it out there at '26 and it doesn't pass, we have another opportunity," said Chair Fowler. "Changing the language is not that big of a deal. That's how we got it through the first time." Commissioners James Clasby and Erin Lowry opposed the 2026 timeline, warning that multiple tax items on a single ballot could alienate voters. Clasby noted that a failed 2026 measure would force the county to present any 2028 attempt as a new tax rather than a renewal. If approved by voters, the surtax would take effect on January 1, 2029, and run through December 31, 2038. The generated revenues will be distributed among the county and eligible municipalities to finance, construct, and maintain public infrastructure.