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St. Johns County directs staff to update ordinance on septic-to-sewer connections, adopts staff recommendations
Summary
The board adopted staff recommendations on septic-to-sewer connections and directed ordinance updates to improve affordability and equity; the motion carried 4-0 with Commissioner Joseph absent.
St. Johns County adopted staff recommendations on Jan. 20 to advance a policy promoting septic-to-sewer connections, with direction to update the county ordinance to reflect the changes.
Utilities Director Neal Shinkre presented a white paper evaluating feasibility across the county utility service area and recommended measures to increase homeowner participation, including opt-in provisions, consideration of grinder vs. gravity systems, and planning for an advanced wastewater reclamation facility on State Road 207. Commissioners discussed affordability and equity; advocates urged establishing assistance for low-income homeowners.
Public commenters including Judy Spiegel and Vicki Pepper supported the recommendations; the board voted 4-0 (Commissioner Joseph absent) to adopt staff recommendations and move forward with ordinance updates. Staff will return with draft ordinance language and potential funding or subsidy mechanisms for low-income households.
Sources: Presentation by Neal Shinkre; public comment recorded during the Jan. 20 meeting.
