VERO BEACH — The proposed stormwater tax has been delayed ... again. Instead, the city will use $500,000 from its $2.5 million American Recovery Act allocation for drainage projects planned for 2021-22. Delayed implementation of the stormwater tax will help property owners still recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic, Mayor Robbie Brackett said at Tuesday's City Council meeting. "(The delay) will take the burden off the citizens for this year," said Brackett, who has consistently opposed the tax, arguing it would hurt businesses already struggling because of the pandemic. The council unanimously agreed. A city stormwater utility was established earlier this year as a way to pay for drainage and infrastructure projects that help protect the Indian River Lagoon. The council decided in May to reduce the tax rate for the first year to address Brackett's concerns about the economic impact.