Charlotte County addresses urgent VA clinic relocation and utilities state update

During the recent City Council Workshop held on April 29, 2025, in Punta Gorda, significant discussions centered around the urgent need to advocate for local veterans and the state of the city's utilities.

One of the primary topics was the proposed relocation of the Veterans Affairs (VA) clinic from Charlotte County to Northport, Sarasota County. Council members expressed concern over this decision, emphasizing the importance of keeping the clinic within Charlotte County due to the large veteran population and the lack of transportation options for those needing to travel outside the county. A draft letter was prepared to encourage residents to contact state representatives, urging them to reconsider the clinic's location and ensure that veterans have access to necessary services within their community.

In addition to veteran services, the workshop featured a presentation by Tom Spencer, the City Utilities Director, who provided an overview of the city's water system. Spencer reported that Punta Gorda's drinking water continues to meet all required safety standards. He detailed the city's water production capabilities, noting that in 2024, the city produced 2.5 billion gallons of water, with a significant portion sourced from local reservoirs and production wells. The presentation highlighted the infrastructure supporting the water supply, including treatment plants, storage tanks, and distribution systems, which are essential for serving the community's needs.

The meeting concluded with a reminder of upcoming council meetings, including a pre-agenda session on May 5 and a regular council meeting on May 7, where further discussions on community issues are expected to take place.

Overall, the workshop underscored the city's commitment to addressing the needs of its veterans while ensuring the reliability and safety of its utilities, both of which are crucial for the well-being of Punta Gorda residents.