The Green Cove Springs City Council unanimously approved the 2026 Rate Study for Water, Wastewater, and Reclaimed Water during a recent special session, establishing a framework for future utility rate discussions. Interim City Manager Mike Null noted that no final rate decisions will be made until the FY25 audited budget and proposed FY27 budget are presented in April. Water Utilities Director Scott Schultz provided an overview of the department’s operations, followed by a presentation of the study by Jason Schepler of CPH Consulting.
During the session, the council also approved Amendment 2 to the City’s State Revolving Fund Loan Agreement. According to Scott Schultz, the amendment will slightly reduce the loan payment following a reconciliation of project costs. The council unanimously approved the amendment.
During the session, no public comments or questions were raised regarding Electric and Stormwater utilities. City Attorney Jim Arnold noted the ongoing Huntley property lawsuit, citing that legal costs are approaching the current allocation of $10,000. Mayor Matt Johnson inquired about potential settlements, and it was decided that staff would provide a review and recommendations by March 31, according to the City of Green Cove Springs.
Discussion of the Solid Waste Department included concerns from Council Member Darren Stutts regarding a garbage truck requiring costly repairs. Interim Director Greg Bauer stated that repairing the truck’s blown engine would exceed $80,000, and Stutts said he would investigate the cost further. Bauer also updated the council on the sale of a recycling truck, with expected auction revenue of up to $40,000 for the city.
