In a dramatic showdown over water supply, State Representative Vanessa Oliver has filed House Bill 4077, claiming that Punta Gorda lacks the capacity to meet its peak water demand. This proposed legislation has sparked fierce pushback from city leaders who argue it is based on incorrect assumptions about their water resources. According to Oliver, the city faces challenges in serving customers outside its limits, particularly in the bustling Enterprise Charlotte Airport Park, where economic growth is crucial.
Punta Gorda officials, including Utilities Director Tom Spencer, are pushing back hard. Spencer insists that the city has been successfully providing adequate water to the ECAP zone since its inception, indicating ongoing projects to ensure long-term water supply. The city is also working to expand its water treatment capacity, with plans to double its current output by 2028. They firmly believe that this state bill, which would change utility management boundaries, could complicate their existing systems.
Adding fuel to the fire, Punta Gorda officials argue they weren’t consulted about the legislation before it was filed. They’ve even hired a lobbyist to advocate against it in Tallahassee, eager to keep local control over water services. Oliver, however, remains undeterred, framing the issue as one of public necessity rather than local jurisdiction. As this water war unfolds, Punta Gorda’s future hinges on whether it can convince lawmakers that its water supply is more than sufficient. Who knew a little H2O could create such a splash?
