March 2025

 
 
 
 
District 2 - March 2025
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Dear Neighbors,
 
As March comes to a close, I want to take a moment to reflect on the progress we’ve made in our ongoing commitment to water quality in Martin County. For those of us who cherish this beautiful place we call home, we know that our people and natural resources make it truly special. Protecting and improving our waterways remains one of my top priorities, and much of my time representing you is spent in meetings, policy discussions, and advocacy efforts to safeguard this vital resource.
 
I’m proud to share some great news I received this week about the strides we’re making. Thanks to our persistent efforts in Tallahassee, Martin County has secured $12.5 million—the largest share of the governor’s $100 million grant for Indian River Lagoon Water Quality Improvements. When I am up in meetings in Tallahassee again next week, I will be sure to say thank you for this funding commitment. This funding will go directly toward converting septic tanks in the area to sewer, a critical step in reducing pollution and improving our waterways. This is just one milestone in our 10-year plan to eliminate 10,000 septic tanks countywide.
 
Additionally, I’m pleased to report that the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Colonel Bowman has informed us that Lake Okeechobee discharges to the St. Lucie River stopped on March 29. Since December, nearly 84 billion gallons of water have flowed through the St. Lucie Lock. The time we spend trying to advocate for zero discharges is important to the health of the Indian River Lagoon. 
 
Clean water is the foundation of our community’s health, economy, and quality of life. These successes wouldn’t be possible without your support and engagement. My team and I remain committed to fighting for the best policies and funding to protect our waterways. If you’d like to learn more or get involved, my office is always here to work with you.
 
Thank you for your continued support as we move forward together.
 
Best Regards,
Stacey Hetherington
Martin County Commissioner
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Know What's Happening In Your Government
 
 
 
State of Florida
 
Protecting Florida Together Grants: Click Here
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Martin County
BOCC Action Summary: March 11th and 25th: Click Here.
 
2025 Board Meeting Calendar: Click Here
Regular BOCC Meetings: 4/8, 4/22; 5/6, 5/20; 6/10, 617, 7/8, 8/12, 8/26, 9/9 and 9/23
FY25-26 Budget Workshops: 7/21 and 7/22
FY25-26 Budget Hearings: 9/9 and 9/23 at 5:05 p.m.
 
Subscribe: To receive BOCC meeting agendas by email, Subscribe Here.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Martin County Historic Fun Facts
 
 
 

Did You Know...in the 1890's Jensen Beach

was nicknamed "Pineapple Capital of the World"

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Willoughby Learning Center
Celebrates 35 Years
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Community News
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Explore Nature - River Cove Park
 
Bring Your Paddleboard or a picnic to this 3-acre waterfront preserve, which offers a variety of activities. River Cove Park hosts approximately 12,000 students each year for hands-on field investigations and is recognized as part of Florida's Designated Paddling Trails. Enjoy Your Visit!
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Join Our Mailing List
 
 
 
 
 
Contact Us:
 
Commissioner 
Stacey Hetherington
shetherington@martin.fl.us
 
Commission Aide
Patricia Higginbotham
comaide2@martin.fl.us
 
2401 SE Monterey Road
Stuart, FL 34996
772.288.5421
 
This document may be reproduced upon request in an alternative format by contacting the County ADA Coordinator (772) 320-3131, the County Administration Office (772) 288-5400, Florida Relay 711, or by completing our accessibility feedback form at www.martin.fl.us/accessibility-feedback.