FL H1325

Repeals the position of general manager for utilities and creates the Gainesville Regional Utilities Commission as an independent, municipally owned, not-for-profit utility governing body with five appointed voting members.

Commission voting members serve 4-year staggered terms, must reside in the electric service territory, be utility customers, hold a baccalaureate degree in relevant fields or own a business with over $5 million in sales, and cannot have felony convictions; at least one member must represent unincorporated Alachua County.

Commission has full authority over management, operation, billing, rate-setting, and collection for all city utilities including electric, water, wastewater, reuse water, natural gas, and communications systems.

Commission must pay the city's general fund 7-9 percent of gross utility revenues monthly after covering operating expenses and debt service on revenue certificates.

Takes effect only upon approval by majority referendum vote of Gainesville city electors in conjunction with the next presidential preference primary election in Alachua County.