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Committee clears bill allowing JEA to amend compliance plan to restore spring flows
Summary
SB 1228 would enable JEA to use reclaimed water to replenish spring flows in Santa Fe and restore Chautaucone Springs; the committee reported the bill favorably.
Senate Bill 1228, which would enable a project to restore Chautaucone Springs and Santa Fe spring flows by allowing JEA to amend its approved compliance plan for two facilities to deliver reclaimed water back to the aquifer, was reported favorably by the Senate Committee on Environment and Natural Resources.
Sponsor Senator McLean told the committee years of groundwater over‑pumping in North Florida have reduced spring flows and described a recovery strategy from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection in partnership with two water management districts and four water utilities. McLean said SB 1228 would permit JEA to amend its Senate Bill 64 compliance plan for two of its 12 facilities to implement the spring restoration project and deliver “over 35,000,000 gallons a day” of highly treated reclaimed water to replenish the aquifer.
The only appearance form noted was David Childs of JEA, who waived in support. There was no debate recorded on the bill; Senator McLean closed and the committee reported SB 1228 favorably by roll call.
What’s next: The bill was reported favorably by the committee; specific permit or budget actions to implement the project were not discussed in committee testimony.
