TO: Honorable Mayor & Members of the North Port Commission
FROM: Heather Faust, MMC, FCPC, City Clerk
TITLE: Discussion and Possible Action Regarding Sending a Letter of Support to the House Committee on Natural Resources for H.R. 642 - Myakka Wild and Scenic River Act of 2025.
Recommended Action
Option 1: I move to approve the letter of support for H.R. 642, the Myakka Wild and Scenic River Act of 2025, as presented and authorize the City Clerk to transmit the letter.
City Commission Options
Option 1: I move to approve the letter of support for H.R. 642, the Myakka Wild and Scenic River Act of 2025, as presented and authorize the City Clerk to transmit the letter.
• Pro: Demonstrates timely support aligned with regional partners.
• Con: Provides no opportunity to tailor or refine the City’s position.
Option 2: I move to approve the letter of support for H.R. 642, the Myakka Wild and Scenic River Act of 2025, with the following changes: [insert changes], and authorize the City Clerk to transmit the revised letter.
• Pro: Allows the Commission to customize the letter to reflect specific priorities or concerns.
• Con: May delay submission.
Option 3: I move to deny the request to provide a letter of support for H.R. 642, the Myakka Wild and Scenic River Act of 2025.
• Pro: Maintains a neutral position and avoids taking a stance on federal legislation.
• Con: Foregoes an opportunity to support a regional initiative with broad stakeholder backing.
Background Information
On April 13, 2026, the City of North Port received a request from Ronnie Carabbia, Legislative Assistant to Congressman Greg Steube (FL-17), seeking the City’s consideration of a letter of support for H.R. 642, the Myakka Wild and Scenic River Act of 2025. The request is part of a broader effort to obtain letters of support from local governments and community partners for submission to the House Committee on Natural Resources. The proposed legislation has received support from Sarasota County and several regional and environmental organizations.
In response to this request, a draft letter of support has been prepared for the Commission’s consideration. The purpose of this agenda item is to present the request and draft letter to the Commission and to seek direction on whether the City should formally support the legislation. If approved, the letter would be transmitted to the House Committee on Natural Resources on behalf of the City of North Port.
Strategic Plan Pillar
Good Governance
Financial Impact
Not applicable.
Procurement
Not applicable.
Attachments:
1. Draft Letter of Support
Prepared by: Matt Powell, CMC, Deputy City Clerk
Department Director: Heather Faust, MMC, FCPC, City Clerk