The proposed ordinance targets five specific mobile home parks lacking necessary easements and infrastructure ownership, resulting in the city billing residents without proper legal standing. The ordinance intends to transition these parks to a master meter system, providing a one-year period for implementation. This move is designed to clarify responsibilities and eliminate the city’s involvement in private billing practices, which some argue have led to inequitable treatment of residents.

Public comments during the meeting highlighted pushback against the ordinance, with residents expressing concerns about potential financial burdens. Lisa Morris, vice president of the Homeowners Association at Tanglewood Trace, supported the need for master meters but voiced apprehension about the accountability of property owners in maintaining water infrastructure. She noted incidents of water main breaks, emphasizing the financial implications for her community. Morris also raised the issue of potential double billing if park owners charged for amenities already included in lot rents, which could disproportionately affect senior citizens.

Sue Burns from the Lamplighter community echoed similar sentiments, urging transparency and collaboration among the city, property owners, and residents. She stressed that changes should not place additional financial burdens on vulnerable homeowners. Burns pointed out past practices where the city enforced access to private property for meter readings, contradicting claims that permission was required.

Mike Bellick from Parkwood raised concerns about historical inconsistencies in the city’s water billing policies. He detailed how imposed changes had shifted maintenance and billing responsibilities onto residents, previously handled by the city. Bellick questioned the fairness of the proposed changes, noting that manufactured housing communities were treated differently compared to standard city customers, who benefit from advanced smart metering technology.

The council’s deliberations revealed frustrations over the historical context of the current situation, with members acknowledging the absence of agreements or records explaining the differing treatment of these parks. The ordinance was framed as a necessary step to rectify these discrepancies. Legal concerns were also raised regarding the city’s previous practices of accessing private property for water readings, with a consensus emerging that such actions should cease.

The council emphasized that taxpayer funds should not subsidize private infrastructure maintenance. Members noted that if park owners face expenses for repairs or upgrades, these costs might ultimately be passed on to tenants. The ordinance was seen as a crucial measure to rectify past issues while providing a reasonable transition period for affected parks.

In addition to the water billing ordinance, the council discussed several other topics. The council expressed gratitude towards staff for securing legislative appropriations, which have provided substantial financial support for the city.

However, the council acknowledged uncertainties surrounding property tax discussions in Tallahassee, raising concerns about potential funding gaps if changes occur. They emphasized the need for ongoing dialogue with constituents to provide clarity on these developments, as many residents have sought information on the situation.

The topic of wastewater management also emerged as a focal point, with the council highlighting legislative requirements to cease discharging treated wastewater into surface water bodies by 2028. Port Orange’s proactive measures to treat wastewater for reuse were noted as a leading example.

Further discussions included updates on ongoing projects and funding opportunities, such as a legislative appropriation for the Pon Inlet master lift station and pipe replacements. The council also addressed stormwater concerns, with plans for smaller-scale projects to tackle specific drainage issues while developing larger initiatives.