5/16/1984 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

MAY 16 1994 Boa 57 PAGE 52 Lc Chairman Scurlock noted that St. Johns Water Management is very much against using potable water for irrigation purposes, and they wish to phase out any use of the shallow aquifer in the Wabasso area. There is no agreement with Mr. Lockwood and Lost Tree at this time, and St. Johns needs some indication of what we will support re consumptive use. Chairman Scurlock continued to discuss various alternatives, i.e., going to the deep aquifer, having the County lease the line and operate it, etc. He emphasized that the whole concept is phase out the shallow wells, and a combination of those approaches could be worthwhile. Considerable discussion ensued as to whether we legally can require a franchise for this system, whether the water is used by Mr. Lockwood or anyone other than Lost Tree Village Corp., etc. Attorney Brandenburg explained that the County has a Special Act of the Legislature authorizing the issuance of franchises and a subsequent ordinance requiring franchises of all utilities operating in the county. The County Utility Department is in the process of going through the county and trying to upgrade all the little utility systems and requiring them to obtain franchises where applicable. If LostATree supplied only themselves and no other members of the public, in all likelihood it would not fall under our franchise requirements, but if they have leased it out to another individual who is now supplying them and has the capability of supplying others, then it is quite possible a franchise would be required. The line obviously is supplying someone. We are requiring a franchise of all utilities, and staff is looking for the Board's approval to go ahead and sort this matter out. Chairman Scurlock noted that there also is the issue of whether or not the Board will take an aggressive position in supporting St. John in phasing out shallow wells. The 52