Interoffice Memorandum
DATE: June 20, 2025
TO: Mayor Jerry L. Demings and County Commissioners
THROUGH: N/A
FROM: Ed Torres, M.S., P.E., LEED AP, Director, Utilities
CONTACT: Tim Armstrong, Deputy Director, Fiscal and Operational Support
PHONE: 407-254-9745
DIVISION: Fiscal and Operational Support Division
ACTION REQUESTED:
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Pluris Wedgefield Update. (Fiscal and Operational Support Division)
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PROJECT: N/A
PURPOSE: The Wedgefield subdivision in east Orange County, developed in 1962, is served by two distinct water systems. Some areas rely on well and septic systems, while approximately 1,800 properties receive centralized water and sewer services. Since inception, these centralized systems have been privately owned and operated. Currently, Pluris Wedgefield, LLC (Pluris) manages these utility systems under the regulatory oversight of the Florida Public Service Commission and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.
Over time, residents have raised concerns about water quality, pricing, and customer service. In late 2016, the Wedgefield homeowners’ associations requested that Orange County consider acquiring the Pluris water and wastewater systems. In response, the Board authorized the Utilities Department to competitively solicit professional consultant services to conduct an opinion of value. The first three phases of this effort have been completed, including an appraisal by Hartman Consultants, LLC and facilities assessments by Utilities staff. These findings were presented to the Board during a work session on July 30, 2024.
On October 8, 2024, a subsequent presentation to the Board reviewed the progress since the July session and introduced a potential acquisition option via the Florida Governmental Utility Authority (FGUA), a special purpose government that acquires, owns, improves, and operates water and wastewater utilities. After a Board vote to authorize FGUA to engage in their due diligence for a potential acquisition failed, the Board directed staff to enter negotiations with Pluris for the purchase of their system.
On April 8, 2025, staff provided the Board with the latest update on efforts to acquire the Pluris system. The update included the status of negotiations, noting the County’s most recent offer of $10 million and Pluris’ counteroffer of $19.5 million. Staff also shared feedback from Wedgefield residents gathered during community meetings held on March 12 and March 13, 2025. Most attendees expressed support for a Municipal Service Benefit Unit (MSBU) not to exceed $35 million.
The Board was reminded that in addition to the purchase price, there would be significant transaction costs and capital improvement expenses. With the total estimated cost of acquisition at $83.4 million, the proposed $35 million MSBU would still leave a funding gap of $48.4 million.
During the April 8 update, staff also informed the Board of ongoing efforts in the Florida Legislature to secure state funding for the project. After discussion, the Board directed staff to wait until the legislative session concluded to see if any funding would be approved. The Board also asked staff to continue conversations with FGUA as a potential alternative. The update on July 15 will summarize the outcome of the legislative session, outline possible next steps, and request further direction from the Board.
BUDGET: N/A