On August 24, 2020, the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC), established the American Beach Water and Sewer District by Ordinance No. 2020-26.  The American Beach Water and Sewer District purpose is to construct, own, operate, lease and maintain water and sewer systems in the unincorporated area of the county within the boundaries of the District. 

The American Beach Water and Sewer District is the best means of establishing the constructing, leasing, operating and managing assets of water and sewer systems within the District.  Nassau County BOCC has contracted with the Florida Governmental Utility Authority to carry out all professional engineering and capital project administration services during the design and bidding phases of the improvement project.

It has recommended by FDEP that all projects desiring to apply for SRF construction funding in 2021 would need to have biddable plans, specifications, and approved permits submitted to FDEP prior to the August 2021 Priority List Meeting.  Due to the August deadline, Work Authorizations and associated agreements must be completed in order to have all necessary plans, specifications, permits, etc. completed timely.

The Nassau County Board of County Commissioners was notified by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) of the Final Agency Action to provide an 50% forgivable loan to the American Beach Water Sewer District.  On April 26, 2021, the BOCC approved a Resolution and associated Application to FDEP for a State Revolving Fund forgivable loan for drinking water facilities. 

The total authorized loan amount from FDEP is listed as $231,500.  $115,750 (50%) of funding is forgivable in the form of a grant, and $115,750 (50%) would need to be repaid.

This project will provide reliable fire protection and a more sustainable source of drinking water and wastewater disposal.  The financial burden to the County and residents of American Beach can be greatly reduced by being awarded these grants from FDEP.

Funding for this project will initially come from Capital Reserves to American Beach Wastewater Improvements as indicated in the attached Budget Transfers.  Once the loan has been executed and funds received, a budget amendment recognizing the receipt of loan proceeds and to replenish Capital Reserves will come back before the Board