The existing lime softening treatment plant relies upon the surficial aquifer system, which is relatively shallow, as its only source of raw water. Although the Utility Special District Water Use Permit doesn’t expire until February 27, 2031, demand projections published by the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) in its 2018 Lower East Coast Water Supply Plan (LECWSP) indicate the current allocated supply could potentially be exceeded prior to permit expiration (potentially as early as 2025).
Based on the limitations set by the SFWMD on withdrawing from the surficial aquifer via existing and new wells, it is anticipated that the City will be required to diversify its supply to additionally develop the brackish Floridan aquifer to supplement its existing surficial supply. The Floridan aquifer, which is substantially deeper than the surficial aquifer, is a reliable source of raw water that utilities in Florida rely upon - the caveat is that it requires advanced facilities that the current treatment plant does not possess. Consequently, this permit renewal process will seek to secure the future water supplies required for the next 20-year (minimum) period and establish the allocation from each source that will be available to the City. Once the long-term supplies are established, the City can then complete planning and subsequent design development for its new water treatment plant.
A 10-year Water Supply Facilities Work Plan will be developed to report demand projections and plan on expanding the City’s water supply to ensure that economic development is able to progress without water related limitations.