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Agenda Item: 7(d) |
Prepared By: Jeffrey E. Poteet |
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Business: Consent Agenda Item |
Department: Water and Sewer |
Subject:
Title
Authorize the Interim City Manager to Accept a Department of Environmental Protection Grant for the Biologically Active Filter Improvements at the Source Water Facility in the Amount of $750,000 - Jeffrey E. Poteet
Body
BACKGROUND:
The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) administers state-funded grant programs that support local government efforts to improve water quality, strengthen critical infrastructure, and enhance environmental resilience. Under DEP Agreement L0255, the City of Marco Island has been awarded $750,000 in state appropriations (Line Item 1555, FY 2025-2026 Water Protection and Sustainability Trust Fund) to construct significant improvements at the City’s Source Water Facility.
The Source Water Facility provides approximately 70% of the drinking water to Marco Island, Marco Shores, and surrounding communities. The surface water treated at this facility contains elevated hardness, total organic carbon, color, and chloride, all of which reduce the efficiency and lifespan of the City’s existing microfiltration membranes. DEP has recognized this condition as a priority for water quality improvement and infrastructure resilience.
To address these challenges, on February 7, 2024, City Council approved the construction of two new horizontal Biologically Active Filter (BAF) systems along with supporting components, including pumps, valves, piping, electrical switchgear, controls, and instrumentation. The project also includes demolition of outdated transfer pumping and electrical systems to support integration of the new treatment system. These improvements will significantly enhance the facility’s ability to remove organic constituents and improve overall water treatment performance.
The Agreement provides 100% state-funded reimbursement, with no local match requirement. All work will be completed under a single construction task, reimbursed on a monthly cost-recovery basis in accordance with DEP requirements.
The proposed improvements represent a critical, forward-looking investment in the City’s drinking water infrastructure. By accepting this grant, the City will leverage state funding to advance a major capital project that improves treatment reliability, extends membrane system life, and enhances long-term water quality for our residents.
FUNDING SOURCE / FISCAL IMPACT:
Acceptance of this grant will provide up to $750,000 in state funding for the project, with no local match required, resulting in no direct fiscal impact to the City’s Water and Sewer operating or capital budgets.
RECOMMENDATION:
Approve acceptance of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection Grant Agreement L0255 in the amount of $750,000 to fund Biologically Active Filters improvements at the City’s Source Water Facility.
POTENTIAL MOTION:
“I move to approve acceptance of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection Grant Agreement L0255 in the amount of $750,000 for Biologically Active Filters improvements at the City’s Source Water Facility”