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Amendment No. 4 to Grant Agreement With State Department of Environmental Protection for Septic Upgrade Incentive Program
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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 has implemented a Septic Upgrade Incentive Program (SUIP) to help lower the nutrient levels in the Weeki Wachee Springs.
Hernando County's Septic Upgrade Incentive Program (SUIP) has achieved a high participation rate. To date, more than 481 enhanced nitrogen-reducing onsite sewage treatment and disposal systems (ENR-OSTDS) have been installed, and a total of 598 systems are expected to be installed within the Weeki Wachee Priority Focus Area (PFA) by the completion of the program.
The SUIP provides up to $7,500 in reimbursement to certified septic system installers and licensed plumbers for upgrading existing septic systems to ENR-OSTDS. To receive reimbursement, these contractors must comply with the policies and procedures of the Hernando County Septic Upgrade Incentive Program.
This amendment extends the expiration date of the Agreement (LPF2701), makes minor revisions to the grant work plan, and adds a requirement to enter ENR-OSTDS installation information into the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) Data Collection Tool.
STRATEGIC PLAN INITIATIVES
Strategic Theme: C - Stewardship of Natural Resources
GOAL C.1 Protect Water Quality
OBJECTIVE C.1.1 Establish and promote policies or projects aimed at promoting the health and longevity of water resources, with measurable progress reviewed annually and aligned with state and federal guidance
FINANCIAL IMPACT
None
LEGAL NOTE
The Board is authorized to act on this matter pursuant to Chapter 125, Florida Statues
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RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the Board approve and authorize the Chairman’s signature on the attached Amendment No. 4 to Agreement No. LPF2701 between the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and Hernando County.