HomeMy WebLinkAboutFYI BoS Memo Legislative Comments 0.0
CLAY COUNTY UTILITY AUTHORITY
, �. MEMORANDUM
TO: Board of Supervisors
FROM: Jeremy D. Johnston, PE, MBA, Executive Dire,
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DATE: December 29, 2022
RE: Remarks to the Legislative Delegation representing Clay County
I attended the meeting of the Legislative Delegation representing Clay County on Monday,
December 19, 2022. I attached a copy of the remarks I made to the Legislative Delegation for your
information. As always, I am available if you have any questions.
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Good afternoon, Representative Garrison, Representative Payne, and Senator Bradley.
My name is Jeremy Johnston and I serve as CCUA's Executive Director. On behalf of our Board
of Supervisors and the entire CCUA team, I would like to express our appreciation and gratitude
for your service in representing Clay County in the State Legislature.
I begin by sharing a bit of CCUA's contribution to the state's response and recovery efforts after
Hurricane Ian. Within a couple of days of storm's passing, CCUA mobilized and deployed a
significant team of experienced licensed operators, mechanics, and technicians along with a
convoy of trucks, generators, pumps, and other equipment to Southwest Florida. CCUA's team
provided essential support to the disaster response and recovery efforts in both Cape Coral and
Sanibel Island.
In addition to their response and recovery efforts, our team learned a great deal. We are taking the
opportunity to update and refine our own policies and disaster response plans. We also look
forward to sharing our experience and recommendations with Secretary Hamilton on January 315t
One our recommendations will be for the State of Florida to consider designating water and
wastewater utility personnel as essential first responders. Utility personnel provide vital services
in protecting people's health and safety. Protecting water supplies and preventing the spread of
disease are essential to restoring our communities.
We understand HB23 provides the essential first responder designation to water and wastewater
utility personnel. We respectfully request your support for this bill.
CCUA continues with the development of the Peters Creek Water Reclamation Facility (Peters
Creek). Over$50 Million will be invested as both an Advanced Wastewater Treatment and a zero-
discharge facility benefiting the community through the increased supply of reclaimed water.
Peters Creek will serve the area of rapid growth and development west and south of Green Cove
Springs. This facility will serve areas of the county that are designated for commercial and
industrial development. These areas served by Peters Creek will bring much needed jobs to Clay
County. Over time, Peters Creek will become our flagship facility.
Our staff is preparing an appropriations request for the legislature's consideration and would
greatly appreciate your support.
Thank you for your service for the people who live and work in Clay County.