LARGO - Many residents complained last year that their neighbors were ignoring the city's reclaimed water restrictions.
But the city didn't have any speedy process to fine the violators. The city staff must first issue a warning before taking the case to court or the city's Code Enforcement Board. According to the current ordinance, those convicted face a fine of up to $500 a day or 60 days in jail.
The process can take 30 to 60 days.
Under a proposed fine schedule, the city staff would immediately issue fines, similar to traffic tickets, when they see violations. The violator would pay the fine to the city or oppose the fine in court.
First-time violators would have to pay $32. A second offense within a year of the first violation calls for a $100 fine. A $500 fine will be imposed for a third violation within two years of a previous violation.
"There are people who've been thumbing their nose at this ordinance for years," said Mayor Bob Jackson.
Additionally, the city can permanently terminate reclaimed water service to repeat violators with 30 days' written notice. The city supplies reclaimed water to 1,939 residences and 125 commercial users. Residents are restricted to watering no more three days a week, depending on their addresses.
The City Commission on Tuesday approved the new fine schedule, which should result in an estimated additional revenue of $3,000. The final vote and public hearing will be Aug. 17.
During their meeting, commissioners also approved a one-day tour to visit the cities of DeLand and Winter Park to take a look at their successful redevelopment efforts.
Officials are implementing a strategic plan that would transform the city into a destination point over the next few decades.
DeLand, in Volusia County, has been developing its historic downtown for about 20 years, while Winter Park in Orange County has a walkable downtown and a privately funded public parking garage.
In other news, Jackson proclaimed Aug. 1-7 as Largo Firefighter Appreciation Week, in recognition of firefighters' efforts to raise money for the Muscular Dystrophy Association. Florida firefighters collected more than $1.4-million during last year's campaign to raise money to support the group.
