FPUA adopts Florida PSC inflation index; approves 3.24% increase for water and wastewater rates

The Fort Pierce Utilities Authority board on Feb. 18 adopted two resolutions applying the Florida Public Service Commission annual price index to water and wastewater rates, increasing customer and usage charges by 3.24%.

Mr. Cisneros presented the second reading of both resolutions. The water resolution (UA2025‑03) amends the schedule of rates and charges for water services and cites Article 12 of the Fort Pierce charter; the wastewater resolution (UA2025‑04) performs the same action for wastewater services. Staff said the index‑based adjustments are standard for utilities in Florida and noted that the water and wastewater changes include no shielded portion — the index applies fully to listed charges.

Barbara Micah, chief financial officer, reviewed the sample bill included in the packet and confirmed the required advertising (published in the T.C. Palm at least 10 days prior) and that this meeting constituted the second reading required by state statute. There was no public comment on the resolutions at the meeting.

Both resolutions passed unanimously. Roll call votes recorded “yes” from Mrs. Bennett, Mrs. Davis, Mrs. Gibbons, Mayor Hudson and Chairman Fee.

The resolutions take effect as provided in each document; staff said the 3.24% index will be applied to customer and volume charges per the resolutions and that the adjustments are intended to keep rates aligned with inflation and avoid abrupt rate shocks.