Students can submit project ideas through April 29

Pinellas County is seeking public input on the use of $7.1 million in BP settlement funds from the 2010 Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill.

Residents and partner agencies can provide their feedback through the close of business on Friday, April 29. Those interested should fill out the online form available on the county’s website at www.pinellascounty.org/forms/bp-settlement.html.

The Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill impacted the economy of the entire Gulf Coast. As a result of those damages, local governments, including Pinellas County, filed suit against the oil rig operator British Petroleum.

In July 2015, the county accepted a settlement from BP of $7.1 million after attorney’s fees and other expenses. The settlement represents a one-time revenue source; after these funds are expended, there will not be any additional money.

The Board of County Commissioners values citizen input on this unique funding source.