Mayo, Florida. – On Wednesday, Gov. Ron DeSantis noted more than $ 6.5 million in budget appropriations for projects across Lafayette County for the next 2022-2023 fiscal year. The governor’s intention to approve these drafts in the General Appropriations Act will address several public safety and infrastructure needs for Lafayette County.
Each project contributes to the governor’s mission of promoting rural community growth, making Lafayette County a more attractive place to live, work and start a family. Governor DeSantis also announced his intention to approve a $ 400 million grant to support the Florida Broadband Grant Program and $ 30 million to the State Rural Infrastructure Fund.
“We have consistently demonstrated our commitment to helping rural communities build infrastructure and empower,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “Strengthening infrastructure in our rural communities strengthens the Florida economy, diversifies our workforce and benefits Florida families.”
The following needs of Lafayette County will be funded after the Governor signs the General Appropriations Act for 2022-2023:
- ($ 296,000) – Raising the salaries of local law enforcement agencies in counties with financial constraints
- ($ 400,000) – Lafayette District Schools Safe and Secure Schools Electronic Access Control System (HB 9341) (Senate Form 2646) Fixed Capital Expenditures Public Schools Special Projects
- ($ 500,000) – Communication of the Lafayette County Sheriff’s Office (HB 9343) (Senate Form 2507) Law Enforcement – Department of Management Services
- ($ 4,586,550) – SR 20 (USA 27) from the Taylor County Line to improve Buckville coverage
- ($ 22,000) – Renovation and maintenance of Lafayette Blue Springs State Park
- ($ 28,000) – Repair and maintenance of the Wilderness Trail Suwannee River State Park
- ($ 680,000) – Repair and maintenance of Troy Spring State Park
The $ 400 million budget included in the broadband grant program will provide grant funding to expand high-speed Internet connectivity for communities in need of basic services. The program will also address the historical shortcomings of broadband and pave the way for future economic growth.
The $ 30 million rural infrastructure fund, managed by DEO, will be used to facilitate the planning, preparation and financing of infrastructure projects in rural areas. Funded projects stimulate job creation, investment, and the strengthening and diversification of rural economies.
“A lot of people don’t realize that it’s hard for us to get the right amount of income for schools or law enforcement and emergency services,” said Sheriff Brian N. Lamb, Lafayette County Sheriff’s Office. “But if you have a governor who cares even about Lafayette County, which is one of the smallest in the state, that’s great. We have a governor who funds law enforcement, and a governor who recognizes that public safety is important for safe living and safe business. With these contributions, you make our country a safer place to live and work. ”
