During a recent government meeting, discussions centered on a significant water management project affecting both Lake and Orange Counties. Trustee Donahue raised concerns regarding the scope and funding of the project, particularly its implications for Lake County taxpayers, given that approximately 35-40% of the project area lies within Orange County.
The project aims to address water runoff and groundwater contributions to the Wolf Branch Sink, a critical area for water management. The preliminary nodal network map has been developed, primarily focusing on Lake County, with limited detail on the Orange County side due to less development in that region. However, officials acknowledged the necessity of including Orange County in the study to account for water contributions that do not adhere to county lines.
Trustee Innesha emphasized the importance of expanding the study area further east, citing new developments in Orange County that could impact Lake County's water resources. She expressed concern over the lack of representation from the City of Mount Dora and Orange County at the meeting, suggesting that their input is crucial for a comprehensive understanding of the project's implications.
In light of these discussions, Innesha proposed tabling the agenda item until representatives from both municipalities could provide their insights. The motion received support, highlighting the collaborative approach needed to address the multifaceted water management challenges facing the region. The meeting underscored the importance of stakeholder engagement in ensuring effective solutions for water resource management across county lines.