The council was briefed on the Evaluation and Appraisal Report (EAR) process by Robert Jordan from the Northeast Florida Regional Council. This state-mandated review of the county’s comprehensive plan is required every seven years to ensure compliance with recent legislative changes. With an October deadline looming, Jordan outlined the legislative requirements, such as the adoption of projects related to nutrient reduction in Basin Management Action Plans and updates to jurisdictional water supply plans. Council members emphasized the importance of flexibility in these updates to balance landowner rights with safety regulations.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the St. John’s Harbor Water Plant, which is transitioning to county control due to the inadequacies of the St. John’s Harbor Water Association. The transition will require substantial financial investment, with estimated improvement costs of $86,700. Officials discussed adjusting water rates to manage the new responsibilities, with proposals ranging from reducing to $40 for residential and $45 for commercial users, to increasing rates to $90 while lowering the consumption threshold to 3,000 gallons.

Concerns about the management of the billing process and maintaining consistency in consumption rates were raised. The existence of a USDA loan associated with the water system was highlighted as a critical factor in financial planning.

The council delved into the operational challenges and potential expansion of the Reverse Osmosis (RO) water treatment system in the St. John’s Harbor area. The necessity for new filters and the ineffective current system were discussed, with an estimated $860,000 needed for the rehabilitation and expansion of the Rapid Infiltration Basin (RIB). The financial implications of taking over the utility, including outstanding debts approximated at $140,000 and a $1.7 million grant, were debated. Council members acknowledged the likely increase in rates to cover operational costs.

The East Palaka system, currently under a consent order, was also a topic of concern. The council discussed the need for a solid plan with clear milestones to avoid penalties from regulatory bodies. Comparisons were drawn with the East Palaka system’s management, emphasizing sustainability through customer expansion, grants, and prudent use of funds. The financial sustainability of water systems was scrutinized, with debates on rate structures and the potential impact on residents. A proposed fee structure of $90 per month for 3,000 gallons of consumption and $8.50 for each additional thousand gallons was discussed.

The council considered the financial implications of infrastructure repairs and compliance requirements, with skepticism about keeping costs under one million dollars. The necessity of a comprehensive communication strategy to explain the rate increases to residents was highlighted. There was a shared understanding that any rate changes must be carefully considered to avoid undue financial strain on households.

The potential establishment of an interfund loan from the general fund to the 409 fund was discussed. This loan, structured with a 20-year repayment period and 0% interest, would appear as a liability receivable on the balance sheet. The council debated the flexibility in repayment terms and the potential for future grants to assist with loan repayments. The financial condition of the enterprise fund was described as challenging.

The future of the Clark building was also debated. Originally intended for the State’s Attorney’s Office, the building’s renovation costs had escalated due to inflation. The council considered liquidating the property through a sealed competitive bid process, with proceeds allocated to the Court Improvement and general funds. The feasibility of alternative uses for the remodeled building was discussed, with concerns about security measures and renovation costs.

Community enhancements, such as the establishment of a golf cart community, were proposed. Public Works recommended installing 11 signs to facilitate this initiative, with discussions on financial responsibility for the signs. An easement issue on Kingfish Avenue was addressed, with a proposal to relocate a drainage easement to avoid future property use interference.

Lastly, drainage easements aimed at addressing flooding issues in the community were considered. Easements on Amberjack Street and Cheffy Road were approved, with plans to install cross culverts and construct a swale to channel water runoff. The council expressed appreciation for resident cooperation and highlighted the urgency of resolving flooding problems.