Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Pinellas County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
6 issues in water utilities with medium priority
Water and navigation dock permit fees
Dock permitting runs a roughly $1 million deficit covered by the general fund. Fixing it would mean a 120% fee increase, which staff proposes phasing over three years (~$280,000). Staff defended the specialized program after Commissioner Scherer questioned merging it with building permits.
Potable irrigation meters and sewer rate fairness
Single- and two-person households that irrigate with potable water pay roughly $60 a month more in sewer charges than they should. Staff favors tweaking rates over adding meters, but wants better household data and a winter update before deciding.
Real-time flood forecasting project
A $600,000 grant project (half county-funded through the surface water utility) with Swiftmud to update flood forecasting for Brooker Creek, Lake Tarpon and South Creek. Some commissioners questioned whether it's needed; others said recent flooding proves it is.
Water efficiency requirements for new construction
Commissioner Peters pressed, for the third time, to require STARS water-saving standards in new construction permits. Staff will bring research back in April.
Pinellas Park Wastewater Treatment Agreement
The county treats Pinellas Park's sewage, and the city pays all costs. Renewal brings $12.5 million to the utilities fund in year one.
Wastewater Deep-Well Injection Pilot
To meet the state deadline to stop discharging treated wastewater to surface waters, the county wants to drill a pilot aquifer recharge well. Peters is skeptical, citing a neighboring city's deep-well injection scandal.