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Palatka highlights water‑plant’s first full regulatory compliance and infrastructure upgrades
Summary
City leaders recognized the water treatment plant as the Department of the Quarter, saying the facility has reached full regulatory compliance with state and federal benchmarks and completed major infrastructure and staffing upgrades to improve reliability and water quality.
The City Commission recognized the Palatka Water Treatment Plant as its Department of the Quarter and highlighted what staff called the plant’s first achievement of full regulatory compliance with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, the St. Johns River Water Management District and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
A presenter identified on the agenda as Mr. Jones told the commission that the plant is now meeting water‑quality benchmarks including total trihalomethanes (TTHM) and haloacetic acids (HAA5) that had not previously been attained. He credited stronger leadership, staff realignment and targeted projects for the change.
City materials and the presenter said a multi‑part capital and operations program has supported the improvement: an aeration tower rebuild, repainting of buildings and tanks, rehabilitation of multiple wells, overhaul of high‑service pumps and a complete SCADA control system rebuild. Staff also pointed to investments in training and credentialing, including completion of FLDEP Class A operator certification by plant leadership.
The presenter singled out in‑house cost savings and the work of named plant employees, including lead mechanic Cody Alley, as contributors to better operational performance. Commissioners and the audience applauded the staff.
Why it matters: reliable, compliant treatment reduces health risk for residents, can prevent costly enforcement actions, and positions the city to manage growth and drought pressures more effectively. The commission encouraged continued coordination across public works, community affairs and regional partners to sustain performance.
What's next: the presentation noted ongoing projects and maintenance work at the plant; no formal action was required or taken at the recognition item.
