COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM
SUBJECT:
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Ordinance Prohibition on Direct Potable Reuse of Reclaimed Blackwater
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DEPARTMENT:
Public Works & Utilities
SUMMARY:
The City Council is requested to consider approval of an ordinance prohibiting the use of reclaimed blackwater as a direct source of water for introduction into the City’s potable public water system.
The City of Edgewater operates and maintains a public potable water system and wastewater treatment system that serves approximately 11,650 customers, and includes a reclaimed water distribution system consisting of pump stations and approximately 93.3 miles of piping.
Wastewater collected by the City is treated to meet all applicable State and Federal standards, producing reclaimed water suitable for reuse applications such as irrigation and other permitted uses. Under Florida law, once treated, this water is no longer classified as “blackwater,” but instead is regulated as reclaimed water.
In Fiscal Year 2025, the City produced approximately 1.676 million gallons per day (MGD) of reclaimed water, with approximately 92.5% beneficial reuse and approximately 7.5% managed through permitted discharge or other approved disposal methods.
The proposed ordinance would prohibit the use of reclaimed blackwater as a direct potable water source within the City of Edgewater. The ordinance does not prohibit the use of reclaimed water for non-potable purposes such as irrigation or other permitted uses.
While this action is intended to protect public health, safety, and confidence in the City’s drinking water system, it may limit certain future regulatory compliance options and could result in increased capital and operational costs associated with alternative reclaimed water management solutions.
Staff will continue to evaluate all available reclaimed water management strategies to ensure compliance with State regulations and long-term system sustainability.
BUDGETED ITEM: ☐ Yes ☐ No ☒ Not Applicable
BUDGET AMENDMENT REQUIRED: ☐ Yes ☐ No ☒ Not Applicable
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Approve the ordinance prohibiting the use of reclaimed blackwater as a direct source water supply for introduction into the City’s potable public water system.