A business owner’s public comment about newly mailed notices requiring backflow‑prevention devices prompted the Dade City Commission to ask staff for a substantive review and temporary reprieve while the city confirms the scope of the requirement.

Ken Woodard, who identified himself in public comment as the owner of seven commercial units at Embassy Plaza, described the cost and recurring inspection fees of adding backflow devices to each unit, and asked whether an exemption was possible for non‑hazardous uses. “It just seems like an onerous thing to put on the necks of the businesses in our community,” Woodard said.

City staff and the commission explained how cross‑connection requirements are applied based on the degree of hazard and the presence of meter dual‑check devices. City attorney Michael Brackens said the public‑works director and utilities director have discretion to waive device requirements where the degree of hazard is low and a dual check is installed at the meter. “There is some wiggle room there, and I, I don't think all commercial buildings need to have a backflow,” Brackens told the commission.

Commissioners directed the city manager to research the current city plan submitted to Florida’s Department of Environmental Protection, confirm which properties are subject to mandatory backflow devices, and to issue a supplemental notice if needed. The commission also agreed to allow additional time for property owners to comply while staff resolves the questions raised, rather than immediately enforcing the Jan. 1 deadline cited in the mailed notices.

Staff said the city’s cross‑connection control plan and enforcement language will be reviewed and staff will meet with property owners who already received notices; the commission sought a written update and a clear timeline for any required installations.