GREEN COVE SPRINGS – The City Council proposed changes to Chapter 70 of Ordinance O-01-2020 – stormwater utility – during its meeting last Tuesday.

Councilmember Mike Null read the proposed changes to the ordinance by suggesting a $125 annual usage fee for each equivalent stormwater unit. The fee was originally set at the special session meeting of the City Council on Nov. 19. That meeting also had a presentation that followed a seven-year period of analysis and study to create a Stormwater Utility and fee per structure. It had been suggested to be set between $200-$250 for each ESU.

The annual budget is $750,000 for stormwater capital improvement and funding for stormwater system projects.

At its most-recent meeting, the council proposed an ordinance setting the fee at $125. Final approval or denial for the ordinance will be ratified on Feb. 18.

The first ordinance was adopted on Jan. 8, 2013, which was the predecessor of the Stormwater Utility Fund. Changes since that time have led to the current legislation.

In other business:

· Connie Butler accepted the council proclamation to make February Black History Month.

· Mike McNaney and other volunteers from the Parade of Trees were recognized for their work that featured about 150 whimsically decorated trees that are adopted by companies, schools and families. Each tree has a personalized sign with names, memories and honors for those who adopt the tree.

· New personnel of the electric department were introduced.

· The city council approved the purchase of extra handguns and peripherals for the Green Cove Springs Police Department Armory.