County legislative staff updated the Board of County Commissioners on Jan. 13 about two local bills filed concerning the Fellsmere Water Control District.

Kathy Copeland, the county’s legislative affairs and communications manager, told the board the bills would convert the district from an independent special district into a dependent district governed by the Indian River County Board of County Commissioners. She said that, if enacted, the county commission would serve as the district’s governing board and assume responsibility for canal maintenance, conveyance and flood control while funding would come from assessments to the district property owners. Copeland stressed the bills are in early stages and the delegation and the city of Fellsmere remain engaged to refine language before committee consideration.

Public works staff and county administrators are reviewing contracts, equipment leases and outstanding vendor bids to ensure a smooth transition if the bill passes. Assistant public works director Danny Uley said he reviewed a proposed maintenance contract and found it substantially complete and helpful should the county take over operations. Staff also examined the district’s fiscal statements and reported a positive fund balance and a capital lease for an excavator; the county team is assessing whether to assume leases or purchase equipment during transition planning.

Copeland recommended careful drafting to avoid creating unanticipated obligations in legislation and said delegation staff are receptive to amendments in the first committee stop. Commissioners thanked the delegation and local advocates and asked staff to keep the board updated as the bills proceed through the legislative process.