District joins city of Panama City Beach to protect Grand Lagoon

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HAVANA – The city of Panama City Beach and the Northwest Florida Water Management District announced the completion of the Grand Lagoon Septic-to-Sewer project, which will improve water quality for the surrounding area.

“Any time we can assist with converting septic to sewer is a win,” said Nick Patronis, a member of the District’s Governing Board who represents Bay County. “This project doesn’t just reach Grand Lagoon, but impacts the entire basin.”

The District, in partnership with the Department of Environmental Protection, provided $71,975 in funding for the project under Gov. Ron DeSantis’ Alternative Water Supply grant program to offset connection fees for residents. The city provided $429,214 for the project and is offering grants to residents on a first-come, first-served basis.

“I am proud of the collaborative work that was done to improve water quality for the community,” said Sen. George Gainer, whose district includes Panama City Beach. “This is yet another example of agencies working together to preserve resources in northwest Florida.”

Residents can apply for reimbursement of already paid sewer impact fees not to exceed $3,125 per connection beginning November 1, 2022. A public hearing to provide information on the grant program was held on October 20, 2022.

“This isn’t the first time the city of Panama City Beach has successfully addressed water quality, and it will not be the last,” said Rep. Jay Trumbull, whose district includes Panama City Beach. “I will continue to support projects just like this one so regional needs are met.”

The project will positively affect the water quality of Grand Lagoon with the construction of approximately 2,780 linear feet of gravity sewer, 97 sewer service laterals, and 11 manholes as well as facilitate the removal of approximately 55 existing septic systems which discharge within the Grand Lagoon Basin.

“Now, even more Bay County residents have access to better water quality,” said George Roberts, Chairman of the District’s Governing Board who also represents Bay County. “This is the type of project that continues to serve the community and aligns with Gov. DeSantis’ commitment to identifying and funding alternative water supply projects throughout our region.”