City Approves One Year Extension for $23M Wastewater Treatment Loan

The City Commission of Dunedin, FL, convened on July 19, 2025, to discuss critical infrastructure improvements, focusing on a significant resolution regarding the State Revolving Fund (SRF) loan. The commission approved a one-year extension of the SRF loan agreement with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, allowing the city to secure an additional $23 million for essential upgrades to its wastewater treatment facilities.

Clayton Watkins, the city's utilities and engineering representative, highlighted that this funding will support several key projects, including electrical upgrades to the wastewater treatment plant and enhancements to the SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) systems. These upgrades are crucial for improving the efficiency and safety of the city's wastewater management, particularly in light of rising flood risks.

Commissioner Lehi inquired about the timeline for these projects, noting that the extension is a necessary step due to the lengthy nature of the construction process, which is expected to take approximately 30 months. Watkins confirmed that the city would likely return to the commission for additional extensions in the future, as they can only extend the loan agreement one year at a time.

This decision underscores Dunedin's commitment to maintaining and upgrading its infrastructure to meet modern standards and environmental challenges. The anticipated upgrades are expected to enhance the city's resilience against flooding and improve overall service delivery to residents.