Golden Shores grounding project: 105 homes done, 46 permits still needed, staff says

City staff updated the commission on Nov. 20 about the Golden Shores utility grounding project and work with FPL and cable companies.

The staff briefing said 105 homes have been completed and 15 vacant lots were counted as complete; 46 properties still require permits before lines can be brought down. The staff member noted the project cannot proceed in an area until every property is connected or otherwise cleared, and described extensive outreach efforts including posted notices, mailed notices and in-person visits to properties that have not complied.

On broadband, staff said AT&T told the city it is performing fiber upgrades as a separate business-driven project and that the company’s broader upgrade for the area is expected in 2026; for the grounding project AT&T initially replaced like-for-like and plans to upgrade fiber on its own schedule. Commissioners pressed staff on strategies to reach nonresponsive owners — many of whom were presumed to be rental properties — and staff said code enforcement will be used to identify better contacts and mailing addresses to obtain permits.

Commissioners asked whether delays could increase project costs. Staff said no cost increases have occurred so far because product for the project has been purchased, but cautioned long delays could affect pricing and encouraged expedited compliance to avoid schedule or cost impacts.

Staff did not announce a final completion date; they said progress depends on obtaining permits from the outstanding properties.