Solar Energy Loan Fund Offers Low-Interest Loans for Septic-to-Sewer Connections
The Solar Energy Loan Fund (SELF) is now expanding its services to help residents connect to septic-to-sewer (S2S) programs and fix laterals through low-interest loans. This initiative could significantly accelerate connections in Vero Beach and complements CWC's existing program which provides substantial financial assistance to households with incomes less than three times the Federal Poverty Level. With $1.4 million in loans already processed in Martin County and a low default rate, SELF’s program has gained attention. Recently introduced by CWC to the Vero Beach City Council, the response was positive.
SELF, while open to all, primarily serves single-parent and ALICE families and minorities, with an interest rate on loans of around 8%. In contrast with other loans, credit score is not a factor and the borrower does not have to pledge their home as collateral. While the details are still to be worked out, this initiative holds great potential to accelerate Septic to Sewer conversions while maintaining affordability for homeowners.
The Vero Beach City Council has unanimously voted to fully fund the Stormwater Utility (SWU) for the 2024/2025 fiscal year. This is a significant milestone, as it ensures 100% funding from property owners, dedicated to improving stormwater management and addressing long-overdue projects.
Maintaining last year’s millage rate of 2.7680, the council’s 5-0 vote demonstrates a strong commitment to protecting our waterways, especially the Indian River Lagoon. This funding will provide the necessary resources to reduce pollution, prevent flooding, and improve drainage infrastructure.
A big thank you to the Vero Beach City Council for prioritizing the environment and investing in our community’s future!
CWC will soon be undertaking our annual fundraising. If you are interested in supporting the work we do, please consider clicking here to donate to us.
Let’s Talk Housing in Indian River County:Panel Discussion at Riverside Theatre
A critical conversation on housing in Indian River County will take place during the "Let's Talk Housing in IRC: Panel Discussion" on Monday, September 16, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Riverside Theatre. The panel will be moderated by Baerbel O'Haire and will feature key community leaders:
Susan Adams, County Commissioner for District 1
Trevor Loomis, President and CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Indian River County
John Cotugno, Mayor of Vero Beach
Keith Kite, Founder and Managing Partner of Kite Properties LLC
This discussion will explore the pressing housing challenges in the region. The event includes a cash bar and complimentary gourmet sandwiches. RSVP is required, and attendance is capped at 150 guests. RSVP here.
In a recent episode of the One Lagoon, One Voice podcast, Kathy Hill hosted Judy Orcutt, Presidentof the Clean Water Coalition and Matt Mitts, Vero Beach’s Public Works Director, to discuss the innovative program helping families transition from septic to sewer systems in Vero Beach. The program, a collaborative effort between the city and community groups, aims to reduce pollution in the Indian River Lagoon by offering financial assistance to homeowners who may have trouble paying for their conversion.
Judy Orcutt highlights the CWC’s advocacy and fundraising efforts, ensuring families struggling with basic needs can afford the transition. Matt Mitts outlined the city's broader environmental initiatives, emphasizing the importance of public-private partnerships in achieving sustainable outcomes.
This program is a model for other communities, showcasing how collaboration can address environmental challenges effectively. Listen to the full discussion here.
Indiantown Hosting State of the Art Technology for Elimination of Biosolids Pollution
The Village of Indiantown recently approved a lease agreement with Sedron Technologies. The Washington State-based company will construct a high-tech biosolids processing plant—only the second of its kind in the world—on a nearly 7-acre parcel leased from the village. The plant will be equipped with technologies that transform treated waste into environmentally friendly fertilizer, irrigation-quality water and materials vital to manufacturing cement.
Biosolids are the semi-solid waste product remaining after sewage treatment and septic systems pump out. Long-established methods of elimination include incineration, landfill dumping and land application. Unfortunately, incineration—a cumbersome and expensive process involving multiple transports—releases heavy metals into the atmosphere. With landfill dumping, sludge, over time, breaks down the structural integrity of landfills. Finally, as scientists become more aware of high concentrations of pharmaceuticals and “forever” chemicals such as PFAS in the water supply, landfill applications present hazards to human health.
Following the prohibition of biosolid deposition in the Lake Okeechobee drainage basin, much of south Florida’s biosolids have been spread on Ag lands in central and north Florida.
The Sedron Plant presents a viable disposal option for an area housing 9 million people. The proper handling of human biosolids represents real progress toward the reduction of land contamination of "forever chemicals", inefficient fertilization and the resulting harmful algal blooms (HABs).
Join the Climate Solution with Citizens’ Climate Lobby Experts
The Emerson Center invites you to an engaging event featuring Florida Coordinators for Citizens’ Climate Lobby, Jeff Dorian and Lisa Ruckman. On October 1, 2024, at 7:00 p.m., they will present “Join the Climate Solution,” covering science-based strategies to reduce energy costs, improve public health, and make a difference in your community. Using the En-ROADS simulator, they’ll explore the impact of climate policies on global temperature and highlight incentives for energy conservation.
Admission is free, with a suggested $10 donation. Mark your calendars for future E-Series dates!
Save the date: Thursday, September 19th, 2024 for a Fundraiser at The Italian Grill
The Coalition for Attainable Housing thanks The Italian Grill for their ongoing support. They begin serving dinner at 4pm, and we encourage you to dine in or order take-out to support this fundraiser. A portion of your order will go to support the Coalition for Attainable Housing.
Their mission is to provide housing for vulnerable populations, including homeless veterans, continues. They recently completed a triplex on 32nd Ave and an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) on 24th Court, now occupied by residents in need.
Plans are underway for a new home and ADU on 38th Place, and they’re reviewing additional lots for future housing projects. Your support will help them continue providing affordable housing to those in need.
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