Clermont council schedules October workshop on reclaimed/reuse water; staff to prepare cost analysis

The City of Clermont council agreed to schedule a workshop in October to study reclaimed and reuse water options and asked city staff to prepare a cost and feasibility briefing.

Public commenter Joe, who identified his address as 2693 Jumpy Jack Way, urged the council to expand reclaimed-water planning to accommodate rapid growth and noted St. Johns offers up to 50% infrastructure grants that could offset costs. "Reclaimed water would be a better resource and a better investment in infrastructure because relaying claim water would probably be simpler to expand," Joe said.

Assistant Director of Public Services James Mayer described the difference in practical terms and said reclaimed/reuse systems can include sewer- or stormwater-derived sources depending on facilities: "It's an alternate source of water," Mayer said, adding that detention ponds must be modified (liners, bentonite layers or other techniques) and may need aeration and supplemental wells if intended for storage and reuse.

Councilmembers asked staff to prepare a clear cost breakdown and to involve Mr. Bronson and county partners in the analysis. The mayor and staff exchanged dates and agreed an October workshop is feasible; staff also suggested that a presentation from Mr. Bronson be prepared for the workshop to detail costs and technical requirements.

Why it matters: reclaimed or reuse water infrastructure affects how the city meets demand from new development, can reduce pressure on sewage treatment capacity, and could qualify the city for grants. Discussion touched on code changes and whether the city should require developers to install capture and storage apparatus as part of development approvals.

Next steps: staff will prepare a technical and cost briefing for the council and coordinate with county staff; the council tentatively scheduled a workshop in October to review the material and continue community discussion.