On September 30, 2025, the Live Oak Economic Development Corporation (EDC) convened to discuss several key resolutions aimed at enhancing community infrastructure and development. The meeting focused on recommendations for expenditures from the EDC budget for the fiscal year 2025-2026, with a particular emphasis on water rights and various park improvements.
A significant topic of discussion was the recommendation to authorize expenditures not exceeding $300,000 for water rights. This funding is crucial as the EDC currently holds 390 water rights, a number that has remained unchanged for several years due to the unavailability of leases for additional rights. The council is expected to review this resolution at their next meeting on October 14, with a deadline for action set for December 2.
In addition to water rights, the EDC proposed several park improvement projects, reflecting a commitment to enhancing recreational facilities in the community. The resolutions included:
1. **Visual Improvement Program**: A recommendation for $100,000 to support visual enhancements in the area.
2. **Business Improvement Grant**: A proposal for $150,000 aimed at supporting local businesses.
3. **Sand Volleyball Court**: A budget of $22,400 for improvements to the volleyball court.
4. **Basketball Pavilion**: A substantial allocation of $522,690 for upgrades to the basketball pavilion.
5. **Kayak Launch**: A recommendation for $149,331 to improve kayak launch facilities.
6. **Pool Picnic Stations**: Two separate proposals for picnic station improvements, one for $98,800 and another for $131,800.
7. **Gazebo Improvements**: A budget of $65,900 for enhancements to the park gazebo.
8. **Site Work and Professional Services**: A recommendation for $320,300 for various park site improvements and professional services.
Each of these proposals received unanimous support from the directors present, indicating a strong consensus on the importance of these initiatives for community development.
The meeting underscored the EDC's proactive approach to addressing both immediate and long-term needs within Live Oak. As the council prepares to review these recommendations, the outcomes will likely have a lasting impact on the community's infrastructure and quality of life. The next steps will involve further discussions and potential approvals at the upcoming city council meeting, where these resolutions will be formally considered.