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Grant Agreement With State Department of Environmental Protection for Septic to Sewer Conversion District A, Phase 1 Project and Associated Budget Resolution
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BRIEF OVERVIEW
Weeki Wachee Springs and river have been identified as impaired by high nitrate from numerous sources, including septic systems. A Basin Management Action Plan (BMAP) was established, including a Priority Focus Area (PFA). The State of Florida has mandated reductions in discharge of nitrogen to groundwater within the BMAP. A Septic to Sewer Conversion study was completed for the area in 2016, and an Onsite Treatment and Disposal System (OSTDS) Remediation Feasibility Analysis was completed in 2020. Areas were identified as appropriate for enhanced onsite treatment and disposal systems. Other areas were identified as better served by central sewer systems. District A is the closest to the spring and river and will have the most immediate impact in reducing nitrogen in upstream groundwater.
Hernando County (Grantee) will construct a sewer system necessary to convert an existing residential neighborhood of approximately 388 homes from individual septic systems to central sewer. The sewer system will be installed to accommodate all 510 properties within the area including those currently undeveloped. This neighborhood/project has been identified as a priority for eliminating nitrogen from septic tanks in the Weeki Wachee springshed. The project includes demolition of septic tanks removed from service and restoration of private property and roads. The project is located in close proximity to the spring, south of State Highway 50 and east of US Highway 19, in Spring Hill, Florida.
The cost of connection to central sewer service per property is estimated to be $36,000. The total project cost is estimated at $18,750,000. This grant will provide $12,250,000 in state and federal funds. The remaining funds will be provided by County ARPA funds ($4,025,000), HCUD contribution ($665,000), and property owner assessments estimated at ($1,810,000). Design and procurement of construction will be completed by the end of calendar year 2024. Construction will be completed by the end of calendar year 2026.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
The attached budget resolution will add Federal and State grant funding totaling $12,250,000.00 for the Septic to Sewer Conversion for District A Phase 1. Hernando County Utilities Department match will be $665,000.00. See attached budget resolution for account information. Municipal Service Benefit Unit (MSBU) ($1,810,000.00) and ARPA Grant funding ($4,025,000.00) will be setup / added during construction phase. (The MSBU match effort amount of $1,810,000 is included in the grant agreement total of $14,725,000.)
LEGAL NOTE
The Board has the authority to approve this item pursuant to Chapter 125, Florida Statutes.
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RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the Board, on behalf of the Hernando County Water and Sewer District, approve and authorize the Chairman’s signature on the attached Grant Agreement (No. WG049) and associated budget resolution for the Septic to Sewer Conversion for District A Phase 1.