Fernandina Beach welcomes FIND grants for Marina

Submitted by Suanne Z. Thamm
Reporter – News Analyst
July 18, 2019 11:00 a.m.

FIND Commissioner Lynn Williams (l) presents grant check to Fernandina Beach Mayor John Miller

Florida Inland Navigation District (FIND) Commissioner Mr. Lynn Williams presented a check in the amount of $351,389 to the city of Fernandina Beach for Marina dredging and Marina repair. This check represents a 50% cost share.  Mayor John Miller accepted the ceremonial check and expressed city appreciation at the July 16, 2019 Regular Meeting of the Fernandina Beach City Commission.

Williams explained that FIND’s mission is to keep the Inland Waterway navigational.  To that end, it spends about $30M each year on dredging projects.  Since 2006, FIND has spent around $26M on keeping the waterway open, Marina dredging and dock repairs.  He credited Marina Manager Joe Springer and Grants Administrator Lorelei Jacobs for doing the work that resulted in the grant awards.

Williams anticipates another FIND grant award of $200K this fall to assist in rehabilitating the City Marina.

City Commissioner Chip Ross said that Williams deserves a pat on the back because he has been instrumental in securing the FIND grants for the city over the years.  He also cited Williams’ efforts to assist the city in disposing of dredge materials over recent months.

Members of the audience applauded Williams’ efforts.

Suanne Thamm 4Editor’s Note: Suanne Z. Thamm is a native of Chautauqua County, NY, who moved to Fernandina Beach from Alexandria,VA, in 1994. As a long time city resident and city watcher, she provides interesting insight into the many issues that impact our city. We are grateful for Suanne’s many contributions to the Fernandina Observer.

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Dave Lott
Dave Lott(@dave-l)
4 years ago

Lynn has been a true supporter of the marina and using his influence within FIND to provide substantial amounts of grants, both matching and non-matching over the years. Thank you Lynn!