Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Pasco County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
9 issues in water utilities
Solar Power Opportunities on County Property
Staff proposed floating solar panels on the Boyette and Land O' Lakes reservoirs — potentially netting $1.7M and $7.5M over 30 years — plus a solar parking canopy concept. Commissioners liked the returns but want more homework on storm risk, warranties, and insurance first.
County takeover of FGUA water and wastewater system
The county laid out its plan to buy the FGUA Consolidated system in FY 2027 (running six months behind schedule) and the Pasco systems in FY 2029, and to appraise the Hudson Waterworks and Nye Florida private utilities. Existing county ratepayers could see slightly higher bills (4.75% plus 1% in FY 27) to absorb the systems, while FGUA customers would save about $27 a month.
Zephyrhills Flood Relief — Zephyr Creek Phase I
Two adopted ordinances modernize flood damage prevention rules in both the Land Development Code and the building code — good news for a county that's among Florida's most flood-prone.
Landscaping water use and reclaimed water supply
The county is promoting Fix a Leak Week during a Phase Two modified water shortage, and the utilities department calls residents about suspected leaks — which Commissioner Yeager said caught a $615 leak at her own home.
Water and wastewater master plans 2025-2045
Commissioners pressed staff and the utilities department on how the county reconciles 832 new homes with Phase 3 water restrictions under which restaurants can't even serve water unrequested. Utilities officials said the system is built to meet growth, but the commission asked for the old capacity figures to be restored to agenda memos.
Biosolids facility service contract
The board approved $18.5 million in additional purchase authority for Merrell Bros., which runs the county's biosolids facility and is being held up as a statewide model.
Septic-to-sewer funding for Riverside Village
Commissioner Starkey learned a consultant got a nearby septic-to-sewer project 100% funded with state CDBG money and pushed staff to apply for the same funding for Elfords and C. Pines.
Wesley Chapel wastewater plant procurement reset
County Administrator Mike Carballa told the board the county is rejecting the shortlisted design-build firms for the Wesley Chapel wastewater treatment plant expansion and will re-solicit, changing how the project is approached.
$95 Million Solid Waste Revenue Bonds
The county authorized up to $95 million in revenue bonds to fund solid waste system equipment and improvements — paid from the system, not the general fund.