Pearson council adopts updated sewer facility plan required by state; officials stress loan eligibility, not construction commitment

Pearson’s Town Council unanimously adopted Resolution 2026‑02 on April 7, 2026, approving an updated sanitary sewer system facility plan that the town must submit to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection to remain eligible for State Revolving Fund (SRF) loan consideration.

Brad Blaze of engineering firm Mead & Hunt summarized the plan’s long development history and the reasons the design was changed, telling the council that, "Once this is approved, you'll be eligible at that point in time to submit for low‑interest loan funds, and those low‑interest loan funds are also eligible for principal forgiveness." He said the town’s demographics would likely make it eligible for up to 80% principal forgiveness for construction costs, while stressing that adopting the plan does not obligate the town to build the plant or obligate the state to fund construction.

Councilmembers pressed staff on costs and who would be served in early phases. Mayor Gray Leonard said the plan shows the 1st phase would serve the schools and "only gonna service 30 to 35 hook ups," a point other members cited as central to concerns over whether operating costs could be absorbed by Pearson’s small tax base. Blaze and staff said the 100% design package has been delivered and that construction inclusion requests and further operating‑cost decisions would come later.

During the public‑comment period, Trish Smith of the school district said, "We're looking forward to being one of your first customers, and we do support the project," signaling the district’s willingness to participate if the town proceeds. The council took a roll‑call vote after discussion; all five members present voted yes and the resolution carried.