South Lake leaders discuss economic and business growth and water issues in South Lake County

CLERMONT – On Thursday, Feb. 9, 2012, elected officials and staff representing the south Lake cities of Clermont, Minneola, Groveland, Mascotte, and Montverde, along with Lake County, the Lake County Water Authority, Florida Department of Economic Opportunity and the south Lake Chamber of Commerce, met with Hans Tanzler, the new Executive Director of the St. Johns River Water Management District, and key members of his staff at Lake-Sumter Community College’s Clermont campus.

In this meeting, hosted by the Economic Development Committee of the south Lake Chamber of Commerce, the parties discussed collaborations among the cities and Lake County over the past nine months, as well as future opportunities for District participation in those efforts. Emphasis was placed on cementing future economic viability and growth opportunities for businesses in the south Lake region, by ensuring a sustainable water supply.

Commissioner Sean Parks and Groveland Councilman Tim Loucks led a discussion on matters pertaining to the new “South Lake Regional Water Initiative.” This endeavor, which was supported by resolutions of each south Lake city, Lake County and the South Lake Chamber, is addressing regional solutions in the critical areas of reclaimed water distribution, minimum flows and levels of the region’s lakes and rivers, alternative water supplies, and conservation. 

“Mr. Tanzler noted this is exactly the kind of regional cooperation we need here and put a new face on the District, with a clear message that he and staff were here to listen and help us ensure that Lake County continues to grow and prosper and that Lake County will be open for business well into the future,” said Commissioner Parks.

Those in attendance were updated on activities and changes that have occurred within the District in both staffing and philosophy. These changes aim to make the District a partner in the issuance of water permits, going forward, while advocating for the protection of the environment and its resources. All parties involved are committed to working together over the next few months to develop an action plan that fully addresses the issues covered in the meeting. 

For more information about the meeting, contact the South Lake Chamber of Commerce at (352) 394-4191.