Punta Gorda faces water supply decision

Punta Gorda City Council is set to discuss potential changes to the city's water supply options.

The meeting, scheduled for 9 a.m. Wednesday, will address two primary solutions to ensure a steady supply of safe and consumable water.

The options include purchasing water from the Peace River Manasota Regional Water Supply Authority or modifying the city’s existing water use permit. The aim is to secure enough water as a new reverse osmosis plant and wells are constructed.

Purchasing water from the Peace River Manasota Regional Water Supply Authority presents a low-risk, short-term solution, although it comes with a higher cost. Conversely, modifying the existing water use permit might be more economical, but it poses higher regulatory risks and uncertainties.

Changes to city utilities could also be happening at the state level. 

State Rep. Vanessa Oliver has filed a bill, HB 4077, requiring Charlotte County to take over a third of Punta Gorda's water customers, specifically those outside city limits but currently using Punta Gorda's utilities.

This proposal has been described as a logistical challenge by both the city and county.

WINK Investigates spoke with Rep. Oliver who said one of the reasons for filing the bill was alleged concerns from Punta Gorda neighbors about accessing clean water. 

"I, as a state representative, have an obligation to make sure everyone in my district has access to clean water," said Oliver. "It's not taking from one and giving to the other. It's forcing them to work together."

Oliver emphasized the importance of cooperation between local governments, stating, "What we can not have is bureaucratic fights between local governments, and where they refuse to act, the state has an obligation to step in."

Despite opposition, including the hiring of a lobbyist by Punta Gorda City Council to oppose the bill, Oliver remains committed to her proposal.

WINK News will continue to provide updates on the council's decisions and the bill's progress through the legislature.