This section does not apply to: the development and completion of plans and specifications for the construction of a project in a district in Anne Arundel County; the permitting activities associated with the project in Anne Arundel County; the preparation of a cost estimate for the project in Anne Arundel County; or the construction of a project in a district in Anne Arundel County. This section may not be construed as limiting or restricting a district from accessing any money kept for the benefit of the district to pay for an activity identified under paragraph (1) of this subsection. The district council may construct a project in a district if requested by a petition signed by at least 75% of the real property owners in the district. The entity administering a shore erosion control district may use tax funds for the maintenance, repair, or restoration of an existing project without a petition. The entity administering a shore erosion control district shall conduct a public hearing before using tax funds for the maintenance, repair, or restoration of an existing project. This subsection applies to any existing shoreline erosion control project within the district, regardless of the initial source of funding.