WINTER SPRINGS, Fla. – Just a few months after the election of three new commissioners, who said they would work to fix Winter Springs’ wastewater issues, the city held a workshop on the possible ways to tackle the problem.
“Our plants are built in the 70s, 80s, we’re not really sure, but they’ve reached their end of useful life. They need to be replaced,” Public Information Officer for Winter Springs Matt Reeser said.
The Florida Department of Environmental Protection has set a three-year deadline for Winter Springs to rebuild its two wastewater plants. This decision follows audits by Seminole County and the state of Florida, which raised concerns about questionable spending. The state auditor general identified several issues, including ongoing problems with the wastewater plant that led to sewage spills and significant fines.
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A wastewater spill onto a former golf course in 2021 caused a massive fish kill. Last fall, voters made their voices heard by voting in three new commissioners, who told News 6 this was a very important issue for them.
On Thursday, the city hosted a wastewater workshop for consultants, contractors, and staff to provide a clearer understanding of the city’s long-term plans.
“They were used plants. We truly don’t know how old they are,” Winter Springs Utilities Director Clete Saunier explained as he started his presentation.
Saunier outlined the possible plans: rebuilding the plants or transporting sewage to the Iron Bridge Regional Facility. He explained both options to the commissioners, who asked questions and shared input.
“What can you tell us about the financial responsibility for each of them?” one commissioner asked.
“So, we looked at a very high level. I don’t like putting numbers out there because it hasn’t been looked at a detailed level,” Saunier explained.
While the commission didn’t need to have a public comment section because it was a workshop, they did allow residents to share their thoughts after Saunier’s presentation.
Jessie Phillips asked what is being done right now to help treat the issues with the facilities.
“There is a public health concern to improperly treated wastewater,” he said. “We’re under a current health crisis to our residents and the environment with all of these DEP failures.”
City staff said they have begun applying for State Revolving Funds to help cover the costs. As for how long it will take, Saunier said it depends on which plan the commission ultimately picks and how quickly they are approved for funding.
