FL H1485

Creates the North Santa Rosa County Utilities Authority as an independent special district serving Santa Rosa County north of the Yellow River, East Bay, and Escambia Bay, with the purpose of acquiring, constructing, financing, operating, and managing water, sewer, and other utility services in the area, effective July 1, 2024.

Establishes a 7-member initial governing body including representatives from the Santa Rosa County Commission, cities of Milton and Jay, Northwest Florida Water Management District, Pace Water System, and University of Florida, which must produce a report assessing current and projected water/wastewater needs and a 20-year plan before transferring power to an elected board.

Provides for a permanent 5-member governing body elected by district in partisan elections beginning in 2028, with staggered 2- and 4-year initial terms and 4-year terms thereafter, and compensation capped at the level of Santa Rosa County School Board members.

Grants the authority broad powers including issuing bonds and other debt instruments, setting utility rates and special assessments, exercising eminent domain (with local government approval), applying for government grants, establishing service districts, and imposing civil penalties up to $500 per violation (or $2,000 per day for federally mandated programs).

Requires a management efficiency audit by a private firm beginning in 2030 and at least every 3 years thereafter, mandates appointment of citizens' advisory committees, and subjects the authority to Florida's public records and Government in the Sunshine laws.