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Marine safety supervisor warns of record sargassum season; council asks for contract cost estimates
Summary
Town marine safety supervisor reported a likely record sargassum season, citing a University of South Florida forecast; council asked staff to return June 9 with cost estimates for an as‑needed raking contract and disposal options including composting.
Mark Fichtner, the town's marine safety supervisor, told the council that regional forecasts point to an unusually large sargassum (seaweed) influx and described environmental and health risks linked to decomposing piles.
"We're expecting 14,000,000 tons of Sargassum in The Caribbean this year," Fichtner said, and he noted that rotting seaweed can release hydrogen sulfide and ammonia, which he described as toxic to animals and people. Fichtner reviewed local options used by nearby municipalities — regular raking, turning seaweed during nesting season, or using flexible hourly contracts — and discussed disposal pathways including hauling to landfill and county-run composting programs.
Council members pressed staff on frequency and cost. Mayor Karen Lithgow said an "as needed" contract that allows the town to call a contractor when accumulations are heavy would likely be appropriate and asked Fichtner to provide pricing and disposal options. Vice Mayor Mason emphasized the problem is growing and urged the council to plan proactively.
Council directed staff to return with a fuller report and cost estimates at the June 9 meeting so the council can consider formal procurement options. No formal procurement action was taken at this meeting.
