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Grant Agreement With the State Department of Environmental Protection for Septic Upgrade Incentive Program Phase 2 and Associated Budget Resolution
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BRIEF OVERVIEW
Pursuant to the Florida Springs and Aquifer Protection Act (2016) and resulting Basin Management Action Plans (BMAP’s), Hernando County will continue the Septic Upgrade Incentive Program (SUIP) to help lower the amount of nutrients in the Weeki Wachee Springs. The program will encourage homeowners to voluntarily remediate existing conventional Onsite Sewage Treatment and Disposal Systems (OSTDS) to include nitrogen reducing enhancements. Eligible properties must be in Hernando County and within the BMAP designation area.
Additionally, properties are not eligible if they are in areas designated for sewer connection or if they have previously participated in either the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) run SUIP or in Hernando County’s SUIP. The SUIP will provide up to $7500 to certified septic system installers and licensed plumbers after the installation of the enhanced nitrogen-reducing features to existing septic systems. Funding for this project through the FDEP is $2,000,000.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
The attached Budget Resolution acknowledges the grant funding and establishes the budget for FY26:
Revenues:
Fund: 4111 - Hernando County Utilities, Department: 33511 - HCUD-SUIP Phase 2, Account: 3893503 - ST GRG-FDEP CSFA 37.052, in the amount of $2,000,000.
Expenses:
Fund: 4111 - Hernando County Utilities, Department: 33511 - HCUD-SUIP Phase 2, Account: 5303401 - Contracted Services, in the amount of $2,000,000.
LEGAL NOTE
The Board is authorized to act on this matter pursuant to Chapter 125, Florida Statutes.
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RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the Board approve and authorize the Chairman’s signature on the attached State of Florida Department of Environmental Protection Standard Grant Agreement for the Septic Upgrade Incentive Program (Agreement No. SR007) and attached associated budget resolution.