Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Hernando County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
6 issues in environment
Bay Lake Invasive Vegetation Removal
County natural resources staff towed a harvester up the Weeki Wachee River and removed over 5,300 pounds of invasive water lettuce from Bay Lake, restoring kayak access for residents; FWC held off on herbicide spraying.
Water Restrictions
Hernando County is keeping strict one-day-a-week lawn watering rules in place until March 2027 to protect local water supplies. If you like a lush green yard, you'll need to adapt your routine to keep the county's taps flowing.
Viridi Energy Renewable Natural Gas Project
Viridi Energy proposed a $6+ million renewable natural gas facility at the county landfill, turning landfill gas into revenue and green energy. The board accepted the proposal to begin contract negotiations.
Regional Landfill Leachate Injection Wells Concern
Residents and commissioners expressed alarm over a proposed deep injection well in Sumter County that could threaten the Florida Aquifer, prompting a unanimous vote to send letters of opposition to environmental regulators.
Sand Mining Operations and Environmental Compliance
Residents near Lee Pedone's sand mine raised serious concerns about unauthorized digging, dust, erosion, and whether mining remains compatible with newly built residential subdivisions. The commission responded by adding strict performance conditions, including mandatory closure plans, phase inspections, and permanent boundary markers.
Sewer Infrastructure Project
Hernando County is kicking off a new project to swap out old septic tanks for a proper sewer system to help clean up Weeki Wachee Springs. It's a major push to protect our local water quality and keep the environment healthy.