The most pressing topic was the proposal to create a living shoreline pilot program, designed to replace or augment existing seawalls with natural elements such as mangroves and riprap. The committee explored the feasibility of a grant program to incentivize property owners along the water to participate. Discussion centered on the challenges of convincing homeowners to replace existing seawalls with living shorelines. Concerns were raised about the resistance homeowners might face, as one member noted that simply asking them to remove seawalls would be a “tough sell.”

To address these challenges, the committee considered innovative solutions, such as supplementing existing seawalls with 3D-printed features to promote habitat and reduce wave energy, appealing to homeowners hesitant to remove existing structures. The conversation delved into property rights complexities and the potential impact on neighboring properties, highlighting the need for careful consideration when proposing shoreline modifications.

The committee discussed potential funding sources for the pilot project, weighing the benefits of seeking grants from the Village Council against external state or federal grants. A suggestion was made to start with a $20,000 commitment from the council to leverage additional funding. The idea of a 50/50 match funding approach, similar to a previous partnership with the town of Jupiter, was also mentioned.

Engaging residents who live along the shoreline emerged as a critical challenge, given their small proportion of Tequesta’s population. While many residents expressed interest in protecting the shoreline, only a few would be directly impacted by proposed changes. The committee acknowledged the need to balance interests between shoreline property owners and the broader community, discussing incentives such as assistance programs or maintenance agreements to encourage participation.

The discussion also highlighted the permitting challenges for projects along the Intracoastal Waterway, overseen by the Army Corps of Engineers. Permits from the Department of Environmental Protection were noted as potentially less complex. Maintaining mangroves along shorelines was emphasized, with the possibility of a village-led maintenance program to alleviate property owners’ concerns about compliance and upkeep.

The committee explored the potential of partnering with consultants specializing in marine and coastal engineering, such as Mang and Reef Arches, to create design options for residents. This collaboration could help streamline the process, allowing property owners to choose from various proposals without hiring landscape architects. The need for a broader evaluation and possibly engaging a coastal-specific engineer to assess the impact of proposed designs was discussed.

Another topic was the strategic approach to community engagement and education about living shorelines. A proposal for a community workshop aimed at increasing awareness and participation was introduced. The workshop would focus on living shorelines, with suggestions to host it in mid-February and include presentations from experts. The importance of advertising the event effectively, particularly targeting shoreline property owners, was stressed.

The committee also deliberated on the strategic planning session, addressing priorities such as the Green Building initiative and invasive species management. The need for legislative awareness and potential impacts of bills introduced in Tallahassee on local environmental initiatives was noted. Additionally, the committee revisited discussions on Old Dixie Highway improvements, emphasizing landscaping and street enhancements.

The no-wake zone adjustments in the area were another point of discussion, with some audience members expressing frustration about the implications for boaters. The extension of the no-wake zone to the northern border of Coral Cove Park was seen as an improvement, though some boaters opposed the additional travel time. Environmental implications of wave action from boating, detrimental to mangrove health, were highlighted.

Upcoming events like Arbor Day and Earth Day were discussed, with plans for a joint celebration. The committee considered working with local schools to involve students in tree planting activities, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a collaborative effort among committee members and community stakeholders.