NWHills Info. Notebook - Feb 06

Information Notebook

Northwest Hillsborough

Basin Board

Thursday, February 2, 2006

9:00 a.m.

Tampa Service Office7601 Highway 301 North, Tampa

813-985-7481

NORTHWEST HILLSBOROUGH BASIN BOARD

Jennifer E. Closshey, Chair Ex Officio

Joe Robinson, Vice Chair

Maritza Rovira-Forino, Secretary

Lester Adams, Member

Mercy DiMaio, Member

Andy Paloumpis, Member

Committee Representatives: Basin Board Education Committee: Primary: Maritza Rovira-Forino; Alternate: Andy Paloumpis Basin Board Land Resources Committee: Primary: Joe Robinson; Alternate: Mercy DiMaio

AGENDA

Northwest Hillsborough Basin Board

Southwest Florida Water Management District

Tampa, Florida February 2, 2006

1:30 p.m. ITEM PRESENTER 1. Call to Order and Roll Call Jennifer Closshey/Joan Riccardelli 2. Pledge Of Allegiance Jennifer Closshey 3. Additions/Deletions to Agenda Lou Kavouras 4. Consent Item:

a. October 7, 2005, Meeting and Workshop Minutes Lou Kavouras [Exh. #1]

5. Discussion Items:

a. Water Control Structure and Emergency Operations b. Museum of Science and Industry Disasterville Exhibit Linda McBride [Exh. #2] c. City of Tampa's Reclaimed Water System Alison Ramoy d. Lake Pretty Surface Water Project Warren Hogg, TBW e. FY2007 Cooperative Funding Request [Exh. #3] Mikel Renner

6. Reports: a. Basin Board Education Committee Report Maritza Rovira-Forino [Exh. #4] b. Basin Board Land Resources Committee Report Joe Robinson c. Chair Ex Officio Report on Governing Board Activities Jennifer Closshey

7. Announcements: a. Basin Board Education Committee Meeting: Tuesday, March 14, 2006,

9:30 a.m., Springs Coast Environmental Education Center, Weeki Wachee b. Basin Board Land Resources Committee Meeting, Thursday March 16,

2006, 9:30 a.m. Sarasota Service Office c. Next Basin Board Meeting: Thursday, April 6, 2006, 1:30 p.m., Tampa

Service Office d. Others 8. Adjournment

*** Information Items are Included in the Summary Agenda***

SUMMARY AGENDA

Northwest Hillsborough Basin Board Meeting

February 2, 2006

1:30 p.m. 1. Call to Order and Roll Call

Presenters: Jennifer E. Closshey, Chair Ex Officio Joan Riccardelli, Senior Administrative Assistant Boards and Executive Services

2. Pledge of Allegiance

Presenter: Jennifer E. Closshey, Chair Ex Officio 3. Additions/Deletions to Agenda

Presenter: Lou Kavouras, Executive Coordinator Outreach, Planning and Board Services

4. Consent Item: a. October 7, 2005 Meeting and Workshop Minutes

Basin Board members were provided minutes of the October 7, 2005, meeting and workshop for review.

Staff Recommendation: See Exhibit No. 1

Approve the October 7, 2005, meeting and workshop minutes.

Presenter: Lou Kavouras, Executive Coordinator Outreach, Planning and Board Services

5. Discussion Items:

a. Water Control Structure and Emergency Operations Purpose:

In response to inquiries made during the October Basin Board workshop, staff will provide a comprehensive view of recent and ongoing structure operations and emergency management measures within the District and the Northwest Hillsborough Basin.

Background: Over the past 17 months, eight named tropical systems have made landfall in the state of Florida. Emergency management, preparedness and response has been a primary concern and focus for the District and the Operations Department. In the event of an emergency, the District Emergency Operations Center (EOC) is activated as part of the State Emergency Response Team (SERT). Statewide communication and

Summary Agenda February 2, 2006 Northwest Hillsborough Basin Board Page 2 of 8

coordination is achieved through the State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC). Mutual aid agreements are in place between most counties and state agencies and between the five water management districts.

Emergency management (EM) activities revolve around a four-phased cycle of preparedness, response, recovery and mitigation. It is possible to be engaged in all phases simultaneously though most activities are usually centered around the preparedness phase. Preparedness refers to building the emergency management function to respond effectively to, and recover from, any emergency situation. Recent District Actions include: training of District staff in the Incident Command (ICS) and National Incident Management Systems (NIMS); Governing Board adoption of NIMS / ICS as the standard for incident management at the District; development, testing and updates of emergency action plans, conducting an assessment of District emergency operations performance and needs; increased monitoring and data acquisition; and upgrade of facilities with remote control capabilities. Response involves conducting emergency operations to lower risk to lives and property by taking action to reduce the hazard to acceptable levels or eliminate it entirely. District structure operations are conducted in response to storm events. Mutual aid and assistance is provided in response to requests from the affected areas through the SEOC Tracker System. Recovery typically involves repair and upgrade of District facilities to protect against future hazards. State and local governments provide recovery assistance to citizens and businesses. Mitigation is taking sustained actions to reduce or eliminate long-term risk to people and property from hazards and their effects. Mitigation typically includes such activities as construction of emergency spillways, erosion stabilization, providing additional flood storage, or installation of early warning systems. Staff Recommendations: This item is presented for the Basin Board's information only, and no action is required.

Presenter: Gary W. Kuhl, Director, Operations Department

b. Museum of Science and Industry Disasterville Exhibit

Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI) staff approached District staff on October 7, 2005, concerning support for Disasterville, an interactive public exhibition designed to help people take action to minimize the impact of natural disasters in their lives.

Disasterville will be a 10,000-square-foot public exhibition in MOSI, permanently installed (10-year life) on the second floor. Eight disaster genres that take the greatest toll on lives and property in the United States will be covered: flood, hail, hurricane, lightning, tornado, wildfire,


volcano and earthquake. Visitors will be given the opportunity to explore interactive exhibits and programs on the science of the natural phenomenon. These exhibits will help visitors learn how the phenomenon affects lives and property and understand what they can do to prepare themselves and their property to minimize damages. Included as a part of the exhibition, a “Disasterville Demonstration Stage” will be constructed to provide an area for MOSI Interactors and partner agencies to have the opportunity to present programs based on current research and technology to the general public and targeted groups. Goals of Disasterville • To provide an opportunity for MOSI’s visitors to understand various

powerful natural phenomena and how human activity puts us at risk for disaster from these phenomena.

• To enlighten visitors to techniques and behaviors that can minimize their risk of injury or damage to property from these phenomena, and to empower and encourage them to take appropriate action.

• To provide an exciting, stimulating, yet thoughtful experience about a topic that impacts our lives.

This project is a collaboration between MOSI, the National Science Foundation and the Institute for Business and Home Safety as part of an effort to create a national public exhibition and educational center for the dissemination of information on building better structures and adopting safer behaviors to minimize risk before and during natural disasters. This will be a unique public experience in all of the country as a blend of interactive exhibition and information that covers multiple disasters. Content experts, science advisors and researchers from organizations like National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), United States Geological Survey (USGS), National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), universities, disaster management organizations and others will provide the science, technology and current information. District involvement was sought for the flood portion of the exhibit. After MOSI’s initial meeting with District staff, a follow-up meeting was held to determine additional messages and information available on the District’s role in flood protection, the watershed management program, GIS resources and the District’s partnership with FEMA on map modernization. The flood portion of the exhibit will help people learn about the effects of flooding on landscapes, the value of Lidar mapping, determining risk, keeping safe in floods and myths and facts about flooding. Planning for the exhibit began in 2001 with completion planned for May 29, 2006. The total budget for Disasterville is $3.5 million with the National Science Foundation contributing $1,583,409. Additional partners include:


Wildland Urban Interface Foundation $100,000 IDEAS (in-kind) 72,500 Westfield Homes 13,000 Suncoast Displays (in-kind) 3,685 RBK Architects (in-kind) 124,269 Bay News 9 500,000 Verizon Classic 21,250 Ward Rovel (in-kind) 3,500 Johnson & Johnson 42,500 Because MOSI is ready to begin the construction phase of the project, an out-of-cycle request was the only way District funds could be used for the exhibit. MOSI is requesting $60,000 from the District to support construction of exhibits in the flood area of Disasterville. Funds are being requested as follows: Alafia River $ 6,600 Hillsborough River 16,800 Northwest Hillsborough 8,400 Pinellas-Anclote River 28,200 Total $60,000 Staff Recommendation: See Exhibit 2 Provide the funding requested by MOSI for the flood portion of the Disasterville exhibit by transferring FY2006 contingency funds to P268 (Public Education) as follows: Alafia River $ 6,600 Hillsborough River 16,800 Northwest Hillsborough 8,400 Pinellas-Anclote River 28,200 Total $60,000

Presenter: Linda McBride, Director, Communications Department

c. City of Tampa's Reclaimed Water System

At its last meeting, the Northwest Hillsborough Basin Board requested that staff answer several questions that it has about the City of Tampa's reclaimed water system. Staff will provide a thorough overview of the South Tampa Area Reclaimed (STAR) Project, which will include the history and current status of STAR Phase I, what has occurred and what is expected for Phase II and what is expected for the future of the City's reclaimed water system. The Board was particularly interested in how much funding the District has provided to the City. Members of the Board also wanted to know about the participation of minority-owned businesses. Customer recruitment and participation, specifically among commercial users, was another area of interest. The City has experienced some operational problems in the area of Davis Islands and the Board wanted to know what caused the problems and how they were being resolved. Lastly, the Board asked that District staff review the City's educational materials to determine how their education program


could be enhanced. Each of the concerns that were raised at the meeting is addressed below.

The Hillsborough River and Northwest Hillsborough Basin Boards each spent $98,906 towards the Basis of Design Report for the entire STAR system. They each also spent $300,000 towards the design of STAR Phase I. The Northwest Hillsborough Basin Board entered into an agreement on May 7, 2002, which was amended on September 27, 2004, to reimburse the City up to $11,000,000 towards the design and construction of Phase II. No funds for Phase II have been expended. Staff was also asked to look into what options there are for funding other projects in their basin if funds are taken from the Phase II project. Those alternatives may include reallocating funds to the Tampa Bay Regional Reclaimed Water and Downstream Augmentation Project (H300) or the Largo/Clearwater/Pasco-ASR/Interconnect Project (H012-A and H012-B).

As requested, staff obtained the City's Minority Business Development Annual Report for fiscal year (FY) 2004. The report describes the mission and accomplishments of the Women and Minority Business Enterprise (WMBE) Program, Small Business Enterprise (SBE) Program and the Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Ordinance. Of the $196,287,289 that the City spent in FY2004, $14,857,365 went to WMBEs. Eighty-four of the 129 SBE applicants received certification. As far as the STAR Project is concerned, the Request for Quotes for consultant services was publicly noticed in accordance with the Consultants Competitive Negotiation Act and the WMBE Program. One of the major concerns for STAR is ensuring that customers hook up to the system. The City has an ordinance that requires new irrigation meters and new irrigation systems to be connected to reclaimed water if service is available. The Board also wanted to know what efforts were being made to look into recruiting industrial and commercial customers. As far as the South Tampa area is concerned, whenever a water audit is performed in the STAR service area an analysis of reclaimed versus potable water use is included in the report. This includes using reclaimed water for both cooling towers and irrigation. In order to further encourage the use of reclaimed water among industrial, commercial and institutional (ICI) customers, when the STAR Phase II agreement is amended the city will be required to show evidence that they included an analysis of ICI use in their customer selection process. In future service areas, such as New Tampa, the District is going to require the City to fully investigate the opportunities to hook up large customers that will be located along the north Tampa pipeline that is associated with the Tampa Bay Regional Reclaimed Water and Downstream Augmentation Project. Staff also looked into some of the operational issues of the STAR system. During the crossing of Seddon Channel, the high density polyethylene pipe tore. This allowed soil surrounding the pipe and bentonite fluid to enter the reclaimed water main. The damaged section of pipe was removed and a new section was welded into place. A process known as pigging where a pipe is cleaned by pulling an inflatable tube, or pig, through it was employed. According to the City, the final pig was


oversized and appeared to remove all of the debris within the pipe. City staff are still assessing the impact that this has had on the distribution system, and at the February meeting District staff will report on the progress of sediment removal. The Board directed staff to work with the City to see if we have any suggestions for improving their education program. Staff will report on the meeting with City staff to review their education program and related materials to determine what improvements may need to be made and what support the District can offer. Staff's assessment of the education program will be shared with the Board at the February meeting. Staff Recommendation: This item is for the Board’s information only, and no action is required. Presenter: Alison P. Ramoy, Staff Water Conservation Analyst

Resource Conservation & Development Department d. Lake Pretty Surface Water Project

During the October 7, 2005 Basin Board Workshop, Mr. Robinson asked for a status report on the augmentation project at Lake Pretty. Tampa Bay Water staff will provide a brief overview and status of the project.

Presenter: Warren Hogg, Tampa Bay Water

e. FY2007 Cooperative Funding Requests

Applications for the FY2007 Cooperative funding cycle were received in December and are provided in the Basin Board budget notebook. Staff will provide a brief overview of the project submittals received and review the District's project ranking process. Staff will return to the April meeting with initial project ranking and funding recommendations for the Board's consideration. Staff Recommendation: See Exhibit #3 This item is presented for the Basin Board's information only, and no action is required. Presenter: Mikel Renner, Senior Planner, Planning Department

6. Reports: a. Basin Board Education Committee Report

This report provides an overview of the BBEC meeting that was held on November 8, 2005, at the Brooker Creek Preserve Environmental Educational Center in Pinellas County. The meeting was chaired by Watson Haynes, II. The overview includes reports on Adopt-A-Pond programs with Hillsborough and Pinellas counties, Youth Watershed Education activities at Brooker Creek, and the recent Curb Appeal event.


Also at the meeting, Committee members were provided with their Basin’s Community Education Grants and staff recommendations for their review. BBEC members represent their respective Basins in the review process of that Basin’s Community Education Grants. Their input was due to staff December 2, 2005. The Basin’s primary representative to the BBEC will review the proposals with the Board. Basin Board members were invited to join the BBEC members immediately following the meeting to participate in a tour of the Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center. The BBEC report and the list of the Basin’s Community Education Grants are included as exhibits. See Exhibit No. 4 Presenter: Maritza Rovira-Forino, Committee Representative

b. Basin Board Land Resources Committee Report

The Basin representative will report on some of the key issues that came before the November 17, 2005 Land Resources Committee.

Presenter: Joe Robinson, Committee Representative c. Chair Ex Officio Report on Governing Board Activities

The Chair Ex Officio will report on some of the key issues before the Governing Board.

Presenter: Jennifer E. Closshey, Chair Ex Officio Staff Recommendation:

These items were presented for the Board's information only, and no action was required.

7. Announcements: a. Basin Board Education Committee Meeting: Tuesday March 14, 2006,

9:30 a.m., Springs Coast Environmental Education Center, Weeki Wachee

b. Basin Board Land Resources Committee Meeting, Thursday March 16,

2006, 9:30 a.m., Sarasota Service Office c. Next Basin Board Meeting: Thursday, April 6, 2006, 1:30 p.m., Tampa

Service Office d. Others

8. Adjournment


**Information Item** The item listed below is for the Board's information. This item was included in the Basin Board’s Fiscal Year (FY) 2006 budget or previous budgets, or was $50,000 or less; therefore, did not require Board action. A formal presentation is not planned, but staff will make a presentation and/or answer questions at the next Board meeting, if the Board so desires. 1. North Dale Mabry Highway Stormwater Retrofit and Wetland Restoration

Project (W259) – Execution Notice

This Fiscal Year 2006 Cooperative Funding project with the Florida Department of Transportation is to remove invasive, nuisance vegetation, restore existing wetlands and provide water quality treatment and attenuation for stormwater and base flows that enter the site from an 80± acre highly urbanized drainage basin. It is scheduled to begin immediately and be completed by December 2007. The total project cost is $900,000 with the District's portion totaling $450,000, of which $225,000 is from the State SWIM funds and $225,000 is from the Northwest Hillsborough Basin Board. The District will be the lead agency in procuring the services of an engineering consultant and construction contractor. Please refer to the project write-up in your budget notebook for detailed information. The Executive Director signed this agreement on December 5, 2005. Copies of the executed agreement and scope of work are available upon request.

2. Florida Automated Weather Network (FAWN) Data Dissemination and

Education (B136) – Execution Notice

This FY2006 District and Basin Initiative is a water conserving and water quality project, to collect and disseminate climatic data. In addition the project contains a youth and adult education component to help teach the public how to utilize the data. The project is on going and this Agreement will end in February 2007. The total project cost is $75,000, with the $37,500 coming from general revenue and each Basin Board providing about $5,400. Please refer to the project write-up in your budget notebook for detailed information. The Executive Director signed this agreement on October 5, 2005. Copies of the executed agreement and scope of work are available upon request.

DRAFT Minutes of the Meeting

NORTHWEST HILLSBOROUGH BASIN BOARD

Southwest Florida Water Management District Tampa, Florida October 7, 2005

The Northwest Hillsborough Basin Board of the Southwest Florida Water Management District met for a regular meeting at 9:20 a.m., October 7, 2005, at the Tampa Service Office.

Board Members Present Staff Members Jennifer E. Closshey, Chair Ex Officio Joseph W. J. Robinson, Vice Chair

Bruce C. Wirth Lou Kavouras

Mercedes “Mercy” DiMaio, Member Maritza Rovira-Forino, Secretary Board Members Absent Frank “Lester” Adams, Member Andreas “Andy” Paloumpis, Member

Mark A. Hammond Gregg W. Jones Gary W. Kuhl Richard S. Owen Rand R. Baldwin M. Beth Bartos

Recording Secretary Joan Riccardelli

Randy C. Emberg B. Terry Johnson Alison P. Ramoy Mikel E. Renner

Kathleen F. Scott A list of others who attended and signed the attendance roster is filed in the permanent files of the Basin. Compact disks of the audio and copies of materials and handouts, as set forth in full herein, are also filed in the permanent files of the District.

The numbers preceding the items listed below correspond with the published agenda.

1. Call to Order and Roll Call Chair Closshey called the meeting to order at 9:20 a.m. She noted that if any member of the

public wished to address an item, they fill in a blue speaker card and they would be given an opportunity to speak at the appropriate time. (CD Track 1/0:01-0:38)

2. Pledge of Allegiance Chair Closshey led the Pledge of Allegiance. (CD Track 1/0.39-1:01) 3. Additions/Deletions to Agenda There were no additions/deletions to the agenda. In the absence of a quorum, Chair Closshey altered the order of consideration. 5. Discussion Items: a. City of Tampa’s Reclaimed Water Education Program

Mr. Steve Daignault, Administrator with the City of Tampa’s Public Works and Utility Services, provided an update of the program. He said that on a daily basis the city processes about 60 mgd of sewage that results in about 57 mgd of highly treated water being disposed of in Hillsborough Bay. In order to make good use of that water and offset the use of potable water for irrigation, the city entered into a reclaimed program, the South Tampa Area Reclaimed (STAR) Water System. The first phase includes Davis Islands (D1), the Westshore area (D2), and Hyde Park (D3, D4). When developing a funding mechanism for STAR, the city chose not to charge assessments or a readiness to serve charge, but to try to recoup capital costs in the rates. Unfortunately, this set the rate for reuse water slightly higher than the rate for potable water. Potential customers favorably received the funding

Minutes of the Meeting October 7, 2005 Northwest Hillsborough Basin Board DRAFT Page 2 of 3

plan; almost 5,200 signed up indicating they would be interested in connecting once the lines were in. Based on those numbers, the city anticipated annual revenue of about $1.7 million. When areas D1 and D4 were activated, only 1,147 customers connected for an actual annual revenue of $376,170. The city conducted a survey asking potential customers why they had not connected. The problem seems to be they have no impetus since they have no money invested, plus the higher reuse rate. Areas DI south and north, and D4 south and north have been activated; area D2 is scheduled for November 2005, and area D3 is scheduled for Spring 2006. The city is concerned about the financial arrangement, and Mayor Iorio is concerned about moving into the next phase of the program before Phase I is fully functional. For this reason, Phase II will be delayed. A consulting firm will be hired to analyze the first phase and find appropriate solutions. Mr. Daignault said he hopes this delay will not impact the Board’s support of the STAR program. Chair Closshey asked that Mr. Daignault return to the Board once the consultant’s report is complete. He then responded to several Board comments and questions. In response to Mr. Robinson’s question relative to how much additional District funds have been expended due to construction delays, Ms. Scott noted the District only funded the design portion of the STAR Phase I project. The Basin’s budgeted funds are for Phase II of the project, which will not be expended until that phase moves forward. Mr. Robinson stated the Board should reconsider using those budgeted funds toward funding other projects. He also suggested the city look at commercial and industrial end users for the reclaimed water. Mr. Daignault said that part of the STAR II design and evaluation would be to look at potential customers. Mr. Robinson also stressed the city make a serious effort to hire minorities in the contract selection process. Chair Closshey asked that at the December meeting staff provide the Board with a status of the project funds, as well as other options for utilizing those funds. She also asked that the Board be provided a report relative to minority efforts. In addition, she asked that the city provide a presentation on the consultant’s report when it is completed in the spring, which should include a section on all-encompassing potential users. (CD Track 1/1:02 through Track 6/0:01-4:25) Ms. Sandra Anderson, City of Tampa Water Department, touched on public education issues relative to the STAR program. (Ms. Rovira-Forino entered the meeting at this time.) The media aspect of the program began on July 8, 2005 at Davis Islands. The goal is to provide great customer service and a reliable product to activated customers. In order to provide good customer service, some of the Education Outreach used was to create a dedicated hotline, public meetings before and after an area was activated, direct mailings, media releases, door hangers, and web site updates. Ms. Anderson said a question that frequently comes up is whether salt chlorides in the reclaimed water will affect plants. She said this issue is addressed on both a proactive and reactive basis through brochures, coordination with the Extension Service, web site information, and staff training. She stressed that one of the most important messages the outreach program tries to convey is the efficient use of water; the issue is not to try to save money, but to maximize the use of the water resource. In order to attract STAR customers, the Water Department is continuing to work with other departments and agencies, holding internal monthly meetings, staff training, and computer access to address public questions and concerns. They will also continue to be visible in the community through local television and media, attending neighborhood homeowner association meetings, and direct mail-outs to current non-customers. Ms. Anderson responded to several Board comments and questions. Mr. Robinson suggested the city target high-end users as potential customers, and also that the city and District education departments work together to explore additional ways to market the program. Ms. Anderson asked that the Board continue to support the program and provide feedback from their constituents. This item was presented for the Board’s information, and no action was required. (CD Track 6/4:26 through Track 15)

At this time, Chair Closshey asked that the roll be called. Ms. Riccardelli called the roll and noted a quorum was now present. (CD Track 16 /0:01-0:21)

Minutes of the Meeting October 7, 2005 Northwest Hillsborough Basin Board DRAFT Page 3 of 3

4. Consent Item:

a. August 11, 2005 Meeting Minutes Following consideration, Ms. DiMaio moved, seconded by Mr. Robinson, to approve the August 11, 2005 meeting minutes, as presented. Motion carried unanimously. (CD Track 16/0:22-0:38)

6. Reports:

a. Chair Ex Officio Report on Governing Board Activities Chair Closshey provided a review of issues discussed at the September Governing Board meeting. These included: (1) approval of the budget and millage; (2) fees will remain the same; and (3) update of Tampa Bay Water issues. (CD Track 16/0:39/2:43)

7. Announcements: a. C.W. Bill Young Regional Reservoir Ribbon Cutting Ceremony: October 10, 2005, 11:30 a.m. b. Nature’s Classroom Visitation and Tour: October 22, 2005, 9 to 11 a.m., Thonotosassa c. Basin Board Education Committee Meeting: November 8, 2005, 9:30 a.m., Brooker Creek

Environmental Education Center, Tarpon Springs d. Public Land Acquisition and Management Conference: November 16-18, 2005, Hutchinson

Island e. Basin Board Land Resources Committee Meeting: November 17, 2005, 5:15 p.m.,

Hutchinson Island f. Mayor’s Annual Hillsborough River and Waterways Cleanup: November 19, 2005, 8 a.m. to

1 p.m., Lowry Park Boat Ramp g. Next Basin Board Meeting: December 8, 2005, 1:30 p.m., Tampa Service Office

8. Adjournment: There being no further business, Ms. DiMaio moved, seconded by Mr. Robinson, to adjourn the meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 10:35 a.m.

The District does not discriminate based on disability. Anyone requiring reasonable accommodation under the ADA should contact the Executive Department at (352) 796-7211 or 1-800-423-1476 (Florida only), extension 4609; TDD only, 1-800-231-6103 (Florida); fax (352) 754-6874/SunCom 633-6874.

MINUTES

Northwest Hillsborough Basin Board Fiscal Year 2007 Basin Planning Workshop

Tampa Service Office October 7, 2005

Board Members Present Staff Members Jennifer Closshey, Chair Ex Officio Bruce C. Wirth Joe Robinson, Vice Chair Lou Kavouras Maritza Rovira-Forino, Secretary Mark A. Hammond Mercy DiMaio, Member Gregg W. Jones Gary W. Kuhl Board Members Absent Richard S. Owen Lester Adams, Member Rand R. Baldwin Andy Paloumpis, Member M. Beth Bartos Randy C. Emberg B. Terry Johnson Recording Secretary Alison P. Ramoy Joan Riccardelli Mikel E. Renner Kathleen F. Scott A list of others present who signed the attendance roster is filed in the permanent files of the District. Recordings have been used to record these proceedings and are available in the permanent files of the District, as well as a copy of the materials and handouts as if set forth in full herein. The numbers preceding the items below correspond with the published agenda. 1. Call to Order The workshop was called to order at 10:45 a.m. 2. Introduction / Workshop Purpose

Ms. Renner said the annual workshop is the Board’s opportunity to establish its priorities and set its strategic direction for the coming fiscal year. It provides guidance to staff and local cooperators in developing project proposals and assists the Board in its budgeting decisions. She provided an opportunity for those in attendance to introduce themselves to the Board. Ms. Renner stated the objectives of the workshop, which is to identify new trends and assess how they will affect the Board, with a focus on establishing priorities in conjunction with the budget and to the Governing Board’s strategic plan. Staff is suggesting a change in how the Board views its priorities by becoming more specific or strategic. (CD Track 1 through 2/0:01-3:00)

3. Overview of Basin Issues and Ongoing Initiatives Ms. Renner said this Basin has been undergoing tremendous growth, which engenders increasing water supply demand; consequently, the Board has allocated the largest percentage of funds to alternative water supply sources. This portion of the workshop deals with Board accomplishments, which are also ongoing priorities, and emerging issues to help establish strategic priorities for FY2007 and beyond. (CD Track 2-3:01 through Track 3/0:01-2:00) • Accomplishments/Ongoing Priorities/Emerging Issues

Ms. Renner introduced Mr. Jones who provided a progress report of the Northern Tampa Bay Water Supply Development project, a review of the Regional Water Supply Plan (RWSP), and accomplishments associated with the Consolidated

Northwest Hillsborough Basin Board October 7, 2005 Minutes of the Workshop DRAFT Page 2 of 4

Wellfield Permit, the Regional Reservoir, the Regional Reclaimed Water and Downstream Augmentation project, and the South Tampa Area Reuse (STAR) project. He stressed the fact that the STAR project is a completely distinct and separate project than the Regional Reclaimed Water project. Relative to the RWSP, Mr. Jones said the project represents potential implications for the Basin Board’s budget. The plan is updated every five years and assists water users in meeting their water supply needs. The purpose of the plan is to demonstrate that enough water will be available to meet water supply and environmental recovery needs in the Planning Region through 2025 from sources other than groundwater. The plan covers the ten-county central and southern regions since that is the area where groundwater has been exceeded. (CD Track 3/2:01 through Track 8) Ms. Renner stated the next major program area is the Watershed Management Program, which represents a major accomplishment of the Board and also covers three other areas of responsibility: flood control, water quality and natural systems. It proactively addresses increasing growth in flood prone areas. The program consists of five steps: collect topographic information, evaluate existing data, generate models based on the information, implement best management practices, and continue maintenance of watershed parameters. Some initiatives the Board has undertaken include updates of the Hillsborough County Watershed Models, the Lakes Watershed Management Plan, and the City of Tampa Watershed Management Program, Lakes Raleigh and Rogers augmentation projects, and the Rocky Creek Lake Enhancement project. (CD Track 9 through Track 10/0:01-0:15) Water Conservation is another major project area. The Lowry Park Zoo Groundwater Reuse Conservation project represents one of the Board’s accomplishments in this area. Some others are the Tampa Plumbing Retrofit and Education project, the Water Conservation Hotel and Motel Program (C.H.A.M.P.), and the Florida Automated Weather Network (FAWN) Data Dissemination and Education project. Chair Closshey commented she would encourage the Board to consider any opportunity to fund projects that utilize technology and research. (CD Track 10/0:16-4:10)

In the Public and Youth Education area, Ms. Renner cited the Lakes/Stream Monitoring Program, Adopt-A-Pond, Tampa Plumbing Retrofit and Education, the Water Conservation Education Theatre, and the Brooker Creek Pilot Watershed project. At this time, Ms. Renner introduced Ms. Bartos, who provided the Board with a presentation on Community-Based Social Marketing (CBSM), a new trend the District is engaging in to improve its education efforts. CBSM incorporates scientific knowledge of behavior change into the design and delivery of community programs. Ms. Bartos said that changes on the horizon include using CBSM criteria for community education grants and cooperative funding, giving preference to projects that use marketing research to target specific barriers to behavior change, and educating cooperators and partners on this holistic approach. In response to Ms. DiMaio’s concern about yard maintenance people blowing leaves and other debris into sewers, Ms. Bartos said the District is partnering with the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS) and the Florida Green Industry to enhance and promote existing landscaper certification programs and explore additional programs. Mr. Robinson recommended the District share the CBSM criteria with the City of Tampa.


Ms. Bartos noted the City is already moving in this direction. (CD Track 16/4:11 through Track 21) The workshop was adjourned at 12:15 p.m. to provide for a lunch break. The meeting reconvened at 12:30 p.m. Ms. Renner took this opportunity to focus on Emerging Issues with the Board. In light of recent hurricane activity, Emergency Response Activities have become a developing issue. Ms. Renner noted that of the 10 structures within the Basin, all have been retrofitted. Some related structural works include erosion prevention and gate maintenance. The Watershed Management Program is central to such issues as improved land use planning decisions, maintaining Hillsborough County’s plans, and partnering with the City of Tampa on Stormwater Management plans to help reduce and/or prevent future flooding. The Board will also continue to fund post-partnership Alternative Water Supply Development projects, as well as projects related to water quality issues in Tampa Bay. Ms. DiMaio suggested the Board participate in land acquisition since the price of land has become so high. Ms. Renner said this issue is a high priority with the Governing Board. Chair Closshey said she would take the message back to the Governing Board that the Basin Board might be willing to participate in the acquisition of land specific to the Basin if this would fall within the Basin purview. In response to Mr. Robinson’s questions relative to the City of Tampa Lake Augmentation project, staff will provide an update of the project at the December meeting. Mr. Robinson asked if the City of Tampa was considering continuing its pilot program of putting filtration devices in canals and waterways that would collect runoff before going into the river. Mr. Chuck Walter, Director of the City of Tampa Stormwater Department, said the city is wholeheartedly considering installing sediment traps in as many locations as possible as relate to water quality, and not navigation, issues. He said the City would be coming to the Board in the next funding cycle with several proposed projects. Chair Closshey asked if Mr. Walter would make a presentation at the December meeting with an overall view of these proposed projects. (CD Track 22 through Track 27/0:01-1:29)

• Strategic Budget Direction Ms. Renner provided an overview of the Governing Board and Basin Board priorities budgets and noted the consistencies between both budgets. The greatest percentage of funds in both budgets has been allocated for water resource and supply needs. She stated that funding allocated toward the Partnership would be completed in FY2007; the Board will still need to make contributions through the New Water Sources Initiative in FY2008 and FY2009 to fund the development of alternative water supplies. The Board is basically in good condition as far as future available funds to pursue further interests. Staff-recommended strategic budget priorities for future focus include ongoing Alternative Water Supply Development for Northern Tampa Bay, development and implementation of the Watershed Management Program, and Public and Youth Education. (CD Track 27/1:30 through Track 28/0:01-3:31)

4. Confirm/Update Basin Priorities and Strategic Board Direction Ms. Renner asked if the foregoing was an accurate representation of the Board’s position relatives to its priorities. In response to Ms. DiMaio’s comment regarding land acquisition, Ms. Renner said this would be discussed under the Watershed Management Program. A discussion followed on how best to include the Board’s desire to reflect its


position on the importance of research and educational training, as well as its other overriding goals. Chair Closshey suggested the Board have two priorities lists, one that would reflect support for the staff-recommended strategic budget priorities, the other that would itemize each of the specific concerns. (CD Track 28/3:31 through Track 30/0:01-0:05)

5. Open Discussion Mr. Robinson asked if the Land Resources Department could furnish him with some information relative to conservation easements.

6. Public Input There was no public input. 7. Adjournment

Ms. Renner wrapped up the workshop and thanked the members and staff for their participation. The meeting was adjourned at 1:13 p.m.

The District does not discriminate based on disability. Anyone requiring reasonable accommodation under the ADA should contact the Executive Department at (352) 796-7211 or 1-800-423-1476 (Florida only), extension 4609; TDD only, 1-800-231-6103 (Florida); fax (352) 754-6874/SunCom 633-6874.

See Exhibit 3 Attached

Presented by the

Museum of Science & Industry

Tampa, FL

MOSI

Disasterville

See Exhibit 3 Attached

Northwest Hillsborough

Basin Board

2007 Cooperative Funding

Applications

1

Exhibit No. A Basin Board Education Committee Meeting Report Brooker Creek Preserve Environmental Education Center November 8, 2005 The meeting was held at the Brooker Creek Preserve Environmental Education Center. The following topics were discussed: Dedication ceremonies for three new education sites supported by District

funding: Joes Creek Park, Springs Coast Environmental Education Center and The Pier Aquarium Water Walk.

Water CHAMP (Conservation Hotel and Motel Program) has received a

national award — second place in the government category of The Gulf Guardian program, which helps protect the Gulf of Mexico. The award will be presented March 28, 2006, in Corpus Christi, Texas.

Watson Haynes, committee chair, asked BBEC members to serve as point

persons to our Boards on education matters, ensuring that education stays a priority across the District.

The District received 52 Community Education Grants this year totaling

$230,653. This represents an increase of nearly 30 percent over last year’s number of grants. Staff is recommending funding 31 projects totaling $131,089. BBEC members were provided grant applications and staff recommendations for review. BBEC members represent their respective Basins in the review of that Basin’s Community Education Grants. Their input was due to staff by December 2, 2005.

Curb Appeal, a landscape makeover event used to promote Florida-

friendly landscaping, was held October 26 and 27. Gerry Rivera, a Tampa resident, won a landscape makeover coordinated by the District. The project was featured on BayNews 9 and will become a recurring story on the District’s web site. Tampa Bay Wholesale Growers and SMR Farms (Mac Carraway) in Manatee County donated the plant materials and sod for the project. Wild Rose Lawncare, Inc. in Lutz also provided the landscape design and supervision of the two-day installation. Florida Yards & Neighborhoods staff from Hillsborough and Pinellas counties also supported the project.

A report on continuing youth education efforts in the Brooker Creek

watershed included teacher Ron Goddard and two of his students from Farnell Middle School. Mr. Goddard attended the four-day summer

2

institute in 2003, which was part of the Brooker Creek watershed education pilot program, and has continued watershed education through a Splash! mini-grant from Northwest Hillsborough Basin’s funding for youth education. Students demonstrated the Enviroscape watershed model.

Adopt-A-Pond is an educational program that helps citizens restore pond

treatment and flood protection functions, learn to manage ponds, reduce stormwater pollution and increase habitat. Adopt-a-Pond program representatives from Hillsborough County (Jason Mickel) and Pinellas County (Kelli Levy) reported to the committee members. The District would like to expand this program to other counties. Initial efforts have begun in Pasco and Polk counties.

Alafia River Basin Board is discussing an environmental education center

or an interpretive center at Medard Park. The park has a 700-acre reservoir used for swimming, fishing and boating. The park also includes a boardwalk and observation tower. This is a popular recreation area, hosting 500,000 visitors each year. Although the park is located on District lands, the land was purchased with ad valorem taxes and, therefore, is not eligible for Save Our Rivers funding to reimburse the Basin Board for an environmental education center (like Starkey and Springs Coast, for instance).

Communications staff is also participating in planning the Circle B Bar

Ranch Environmental Education Center in Polk County. Staff is trying to bring Dr. Douglas McKenzie-Mohr back to Florida for

additional trainings in community-based social marketing. We plan to offer advanced training to key staff and cooperators. We also plan to use Dr. McKenzie-Mohr’s services as a consultant to review District education efforts and provide feedback on how we can more effectively use community-based social marketing techniques and tools.

Following the meeting, Brooker Creek Environmental Education Staff

provided a tour of the center.

Exhibit No. B 2006 Community Education Grants in the Northwest Hillsborough Basin The Northwest Hillsborough Basin Board approved funds in its FY2006 budget for a ninth year to assist education projects through the Community Education Grants program. The grants program provides funding assistance up to $5,000 to individuals, service groups, community associations and other organizations to implement a water resources education project. This year the Communications Department received 52 applications Districtwide for Community Education Grants, with a combined total of $230,653 in requests for funds. Funded projects must be implemented between March 1 and June 30, 2006. The chart below illustrates the figures relative to the Northwest Hillsborough Basin.

Basin Funds Available

No. of NW Hillsborough Applications

Received

Total Projects Funded Total Funds Allocated

$14,500 4 3 $14,500

Below are projects received and staff recommendations for funding within the Northwest Hillsborough Basin: RECOMMENDED FOR FUNDING: Project Name: Florida Yard Fandango Organization: Wildrose Lawncare, Inc. Funds Requested: $5,000 Recommendation: Fund at $500 (Balance will come from a different District

public education program within the Northwest Hillsborough Basin.)

This Florida-friendly landscaping event will be held at the University of South Florida and will target 500 residents in northwest Hillsborough County. The primary educational goal is to dispel the myth that responsible, Florida-friendly landscaping and lawn maintenance is boring and difficult. Participants will tour the botanical gardens on campus and attend workshops on the nine principles of Florida-friendly landscaping and organic pest control. Project Name: Logan Gate Village Watershed Program Organization: Logan Gate Village Special Dependent Tax District Funds Requested: $4,500 Recommendation: Fully fund This water quality program will educate 4,000 Logan Gate Village homeowners about the potential harm of pesticides and fertilizer runoff from their property. There will be planned workdays to remove Brazilian pepper trees and other exotic plants from the seven ponds located in the area. Two ponds in particular have been affected by

stormwater runoff. In addition, residents will be educated by marking all basins with a sign telling them which pond the basin services. Florida-friendly landscaping will be promoted as a solution to excessive pesticide and fertilizer use. Project Name: Pond Ecology Education and Training Workshop Organization: Hillsborough County Adopt-A-Pond Funds Requested: $5,000 Recommendation: Fully fund This watershed education project will target 5,000 Hillsborough County residents with a full-color information brochure containing watershed education, stormwater pollution prevention, best management practices and Florida-friendly landscaping techniques. In addition, two pond ecology workshops will be held to certify 25 sampling volunteers and provide an advanced curriculum based on the information in the brochure. These 25 sampling volunteers will test their pond and report their findings monthly to measure the effectiveness of their adopted pond. NOT RECOMMENDED FOR FUNDING: Project Name: Lake Senac Restoration Organization: Magdalene Reserve Homeowners Association Funds Requested: $5,000 Recommendation: Do not fund (Not a strong enough education component.) Lake Senac is a six-acre lake invaded by melaleuca, barring access to the lake. Magdalene Reserve homeowners and members of the Church of Latter Day Saints will remove the melaleuca and restore the pond with native plants. A newsletter will be mailed to residents and churchgoers informing them of the project and educating them on invasive species management. Presenter: Linda McBride, Director, Communications Department cc: Lou Kavouras Michael Molligan Beth Bartos

NORTHWEST HILLSBOROUGH BASIN FY 2007

STRATEGIC BUDGET PRIORITIES On October 7, 2005, the Northwest Hillsborough Basin Board held its annual planning workshop for the purposes of reviewing recent accomplishments, identifying emerging issues and setting strategic budget priorities for FY 2007. These priorities provide guidance to District staff and the Basin Board's cooperators in identifying and scoping projects for potential Basin Board funding. At the workshop, the Board agreed on the following set of strategic budget priorities. • Alternative Water Supply Development • Watershed Management Program • Public and Youth Education While the above priorities were developed to help ensure that the most critical needs of the basin are addressed, the Basin Board funds a wide variety of projects to assist in the achievement of the mission of the Southwest Florida Water Management District. These include projects that fall within each of the District's four areas of responsibility: water supply, flood protection, water quality and natural systems.

inset

Fmm Tampa, travel 1-275 to 1-4 East and exit to Highway 301 North.

From 1-75, exit to 1-4 West and Wen exit to Highway 301 North.

location Map Tampa Service Office

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