Interoffice Memorandum
DATE: February 27, 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 Division
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 (PSC) 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 a facilities assessment 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). 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 ...
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