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Atlantic Beach officials, state lawmakers announce funding to begin replacing septic tanks
Summary
City officials and visiting state lawmakers presented state funding to begin a phased program to retire septic systems in Atlantic Beach, describing the grant as phase one and promising further appropriation requests next year for wider coverage.
A delegation of state lawmakers joined Atlantic Beach officials on Aug. 25 to announce legislative funding the city will use to begin retiring septic systems.
Mayor Ford introduced Rep. Michael and Sen. Yarborough and thanked lobbyist Davis Bean for helping secure the money, saying the appropriation will fund a phase 1 program to replace septic tanks within city limits. "We know that the ask ... is already before us for this session," Rep. Michael said, describing it as an "honor to serve" and to bring money "back home to something so very much needed." Sen. Yarborough said the appropriation came through an acrimonious state session but expressed hope the city's budget process will be smoother.
City Manager Killingsworth told the commission the appropriation covers only a portion of the city's septic systems and staff expect to request additional funding next year for a phase 2 expansion. Killingsworth said the state funds are part of a broader effort the city and its lobbyists pursued at the legislative session.
Why it matters: Atlantic Beach sits on a developed shoreline where aging septic systems can pose environmental and public‑health problems. City officials said the current award is Phase 1 and will not convert all septic tanks at once; staff and the lobbyist said they will press for additional appropriations in the coming session.
Next steps: Killingsworth said staff will return to the commission with program specifics and implementation timelines, and residents should expect further outreach as the project moves from legislative approval to project planning and contracting.
