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Martin County approves up-to-$50,000 feasibility study to evaluate acquiring South Martin Regional Utility
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Summary
The board approved a feasibility study (not to exceed $50,000) to evaluate acquiring South Martin Regional Utility (SMRU) wastewater—and potentially water—operations; commissioners said the study will examine costs, service continuity, regulatory compliance and whether county ownership would stabilize rates.
Martin County’s Board of County Commissioners unanimously approved a staff request to conduct a feasibility study, not to exceed $50,000, to evaluate the potential acquisition of South Martin Regional Utility (SMRU) wastewater operations and to consider whether the county should also acquire water operations.
Matt Graham, assistant county administrator, said Jupiter Island staff recently approached county staff about a potential sale; the SMRU wastewater plant is operating around 60% capacity and requires significant upgrades to meet current standards. Commissioners discussed three high‑level options: (1) the town funds upgrades itself, (2) the town sells to a private utility authority (which could raise rates), or (3) the county acquires the utility to preserve more affordable rates and local accountability.
Commissioner Capps and others argued county acquisition could protect customers by keeping rates in line with Martin County Utilities and by providing a governmental entity to address service complaints. Commissioner Campey urged staff to include both wastewater and water in the scope of the study so the board can evaluate the total transaction and operational impacts. Staff estimated results from the feasibility study would be available in roughly 60 days.
What happens next: staff will deliver a feasibility report evaluating takeover scenarios, financial impacts, possible integration with county wastewater infrastructure (including Tropical Farms), and operational options to the board within an estimated 60‑day timeframe; any purchase decision would return to the board for approval.
