Brevard County commissioners are seeking state funding to help clean up debris and damaged boats in the Indian River Lagoon that were left behind the wake of Hurricane Matthew last fall.

  • Brevard officials want state money to clean up Indian River Lagoon
  • Lagoon has derelict boats, storm debris from Hurricane Matthew

The problem, however, is the state is out of money for the daunting task.

The Brevard County Commission on Tuesday voted to send letters to Gov. Rick Scott and state representatives, asking for money to clean up the lagoon and money that isn't allotted for derelict vessels.

Commissioners said the state is responsible, but so far, only 25 percent of the needed funding has come through.

Steve Balzer spends his fair share of time on the waters of the Indian River. Each time he heads out to boat or fish, he sees what Hurricane Matthew left behind in October.

"The lagoon is supposed to be something you want to look at," he said. "You don't want to see that kind of stuff."

One boat washed up on the bank of the Pineda Causeway boat ramp during the storm and continues to sit at that location.

Vandals spray-painted their tribute to Gilligan's Island on the side. It says "S.S. Minow (spelled incorrectly) is Back."

Fuel and engine fluids also spilled into the water.

"They are going to have to bring something in to get it out of there," Balzer said.

But that costs money.

Officials say that $40 million is needed statewide for post-storm lagoon debris cleanup. Only $10 million was funded, and Brevard County received $1.3 million to take care of the 40,000 cubic yards of lagoon debris.

County officials said they need another $5.6 million to take care of the cleanup, which includes trees and docks. It doesn't include derelict vessel removal. Twenty-four derelict vessels were counted in Brevard County waters after the storm — seven of which were deemed a hazard.

A contractor hired to clean up the lagoon debris told the county it is only 18 percent complete, but there's no money left to continue.

"We could use a hand for sure," Balzer said.


(Greg Pallone, staff)