Jacksonville Waterways Commission approves funding for 18th State of the River report

The Jacksonville Waterways Commission on Sept. 10 approved an ordinance to appropriate funding for the 18th State of the River report, a recurring assessment that summarizes the health of the Lower St. Johns River.

James Richardson, representing the Environmental Protection Board, told the commission the annual State of the River report “basically gives a snapshot of the health of the river” and traces outcomes tied to projects launched under the River Accord. Richardson said the report was created 18 years ago to show progress from coordinated projects by major regulatory agencies.

The commission voted by voice to move the ordinance forward after Richardson’s presentation. Mike Barker placed the motion; a second was recorded but not identified on the record. No roll-call tally was provided in the transcript; the chair called for voices in favor and none opposed.

Richardson said staff is assembling a strategy for future funding sources and asked commissioners to “stay tuned” for details. Commissioners stressed the report’s value — one commissioner said, after 18 years, “this report is critical to our city,” noting the city’s connection to the river.

The ordinance will move through the city appropriation process for final action by the City Council. Richardson indicated the report documents how river-improvement projects have “positively impacted the health of the river.”

Proposed next steps mentioned by staff include coordination with legislative services and follow-up through the regular appropriation channels. No specific dollar amounts or an appropriation ordinance number were stated on the record.

The commission moved on to other agenda items after the vote; the transcript does not record additional amendments or conditions attached to this funding vote.