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FPUA board approves Manatee Center strategic plan, extends gas capacity and accepts $5M DEP grant amendment
Summary
At its Jan. 20 meeting the Fort Pierce Utilities Authority board adopted the Manatee Center strategic plan, approved a 10‑year extension of a gas capacity agreement that locks in a low rate, and authorized a $5 million amendment to a DEP conveyance grant to support relocation of the South Hutchinson Island wastewater plant.
The Fort Pierce Utilities Authority board on Jan. 20 voted unanimously to adopt the Manatee Center strategic plan, extend a gas capacity service agreement and accept a $5 million state grant amendment to support a wastewater conveyance project.
Manatee Center strategic plan: Jessica Barclay, Manatee Center manager, presented a strategic plan organized around six operating perspectives intended to provide continuity and align the center with FPUA and city goals. "I would love for this board to adopt this strategic plan," Barclay said, and board members praised the effort as a means to preserve continuity and strengthen partnerships with the city, Main Street and regional conservation groups. A motion to adopt the plan passed on unanimous roll call.
Gas capacity agreement: Staff requested approval to extend the service agreement with Florida Gas Utility Company beginning Feb. 2027 for 10 years to preserve existing capacity at a low established price (stated as roughly $0.515 per unit). Staff explained that the extension will lock in that low capacity price and that the agreement is separate from any new capacity arrangements the utility is pursuing. The board unanimously approved the extension.
DEP grant amendment for conveyance system: Montserrat Martinez, utility grant specialist, explained that the Florida Legislature appropriated an additional $5,000,000 during the 2025 session to support conveyance work associated with relocating the wastewater treatment plant on South Hutchinson Island. The amendment (DEP grant LPA0525, amendment #1) will reimburse eligible design and construction costs and reduce pressure on customer rates. The board approved the amendment unanimously.
Other routine business: The board approved minutes and the consent agenda and received a finance award presentation; staff announced a community feedback forum on Jan. 29 and the next regular board meeting on Feb. 3.
Votes at a glance (as recorded at the meeting): - Adoption of Manatee Center strategic plan — Approved (roll call: Miss Bennett, Missus Davis, Mrs. Gibbons, Mayor Hudson, Mr. Fee: all yes). - Extension of Florida Gas Utility Company service agreement (10 years, effective Feb. 2027) — Approved (unanimous). - DEP grant amendment LPA0525 (+$5,000,000) — Approved (unanimous). - Approval of minutes and consent agenda — Approved (unanimous).
The board adjourned after receiving the GFOA financial reporting award and scheduling upcoming meetings.
