Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Environment topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
State representative tells Pinellas Park many water‑quality projects were vetoed; new stormwater rule could affect local permits
Summary
Representative Lindsey Cross briefed the council that the legislative session ended with the governor signing the budget while vetoing numerous water‑quality projects, and warned that a ratified stormwater rule will impose additional nutrient‑reduction requirements for municipal MS4 permits.
Representative Lindsey Cross updated the Pinellas Park City Council on recent activity in Tallahassee, telling council members that the session concluded and the governor has signed the state budget. Cross said a substantial portion of water‑quality projects statewide were vetoed, which reduced available state funding for local stormwater initiatives.
"The budget was just signed by the governor yesterday," Representative Lindsey Cross told the council, adding that many water‑quality projects—about $210 million worth, she said—were vetoed, including items that had been proposed for Pinellas Park. She said the shortfall means local governments may need to continue pursuing alternative funding and remain engaged with state agencies.
Cross also noted a recent ratification of a stormwater rule that will have implications for municipal stormwater (MS4) permits. She said the rule will increase requirements tied to nutrient reduction and encouraged city staff to consult the Stormwater Association as they navigate permit obligations and compliance timelines.
Cross thanked council members and city staff for hosting her and referenced recent local visits to the Patty Johnson Farm and Davis Commons, highlighting economic‑development potential in those projects. She said she is available to help the city pursue opportunities in Tallahassee and left informational materials for the council.
The update was delivered during the council's public comment portion; council members and staff expressed appreciation and noted ongoing collaboration between city officials and state representatives.
