The Franklin County Commission conducted a Pubic Hearing on the MSBU ordinance for the Alligator Point Beach Renourishment project and adopted the ordinance with a unanimous vote. The Commissioners also approved the Initial Assessment Resolution unanimously.

The ordinance establishes maximum special assessment rates which can be lowered but not raised. A final Public Hearing and final vote by the Commissioners to adopt a Final Financing Resolution will take place September 11, 2007 in Apalachicola.

The Department of Environmental Protection has not yet provided their answer to whether or not they will fund the area termed the Gap. This information is expected at any time.

The County will send a letter to each affected property owner on August 21st that will state the property owner’s assessment based on the rates passed by the Commissioners today. The letter will also provide logistics for the Beach Renourishment workshop scheduled for 5:00 PM August 24 at the Mission by the Sea Church. Please remember that the assessment rates you will see remain tentative.

APTA encourages any affected property owner to attend the workshop on August 24^th. This is the final workshop with the Franklin County Commissioners prior to the final Pubic Hearing in Apalachicola on September 11^th.

APTA will continue in its effort to reduce assessments.