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or equalization board, to determine how the cost is distributed to the customers that benefit within the system. He pointed out the benefits of these provisions. He felt it was an important part of the agreement because it relieves the City of the fear that the County can dictate where their planning will be and where utilities will and will not be within the City. It also gives the City the ability to do an assessment project and they will be serviced by the County based on available capacity equal to everyone else in the system. Commissioner Eggert inquired if there was anything in the agreement that would prevent or hamper the County from proper expansion in Sebastian and in north county, and Director Pinto responded there was nothing at all. As a matter of fact, he thought that was one of the most important parts of the purchase of the system, that it actually will help expansion in a more reasonable way. He predicted the City will never have to worry again about bringing utilities to new commercial development. In response to Commissioner Bird's inquiry, Director Pinto advised that the department had analyzed payment of bills by Sebastian residents and did not plan to open a satellite office, but would try to locate someone in the City of Sebastian to allow transactions to take place. He explained, however,. that the customers have been dealing with an office in Miami, with a drop off in Sebastian, and the County will provide that type of drop/lock box for payments. They expect to have someone up there during the sign-up period because they recognize it will be necessary. They are presently discussing it with the Tax Collector and a bank in Sebastian. Director Pinto then reviewed the financing of the purchase of the system and plans for bonds. The hour of 9:05 a.m. having passed, the Chairman opened the public hearing and asked if anyone wished to be heard in this matter. Gary Brandenberg, attorney with the firm of Carlton Fields, representing Citrus Utilities owned by Richard Graves, presented a short history concerning a franchise agreement with Citrus Utilities. He informed the Board that a law suit has been filed to recover $77,000 for his client. He advised that if the acquisition takes place, he will have no alternative but to join the County in the suit and suggested the County try to settle the matter before acquiring the system. 27 August 8, 1995 my