MILT THOMAS
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says Falls. “We are currently investigating
options and the costs associated with
them. One choice would be to leave the
facility where it is by making upgrades to
reduce potential impact on the Lagoon.
Another is to build a brand-new wastewater
treatment on property out by the
airport. The third would be for the county
to take over those functions. All three
involve costs and benefits that we will
present in our findings to the Utilities
Commission. They will then make recommendations
to City Council.”
The treatment facility, if it remains,
would still have land on the waterfront
available for public use. Currently, the
popular Youth Sailing Foundation operates
from there and plans to build a permanent
facility pending decisions by the City
Council. Public opinion seems to view
the treatment facility as a potential threat
to the already struggling Indian River
Lagoon. The upgrade cost would be far
less than building an entirely new facility.
But a new, modern facility might be the
most cost-effective long term because
operating expenses would be lower. There
are costs involved with the third option as
well, including another significant loss of
income to the city.
These two waterfront properties are
separated by the Alma Lee Loy Bridge,
named after a lifelong resident and community
leader affectionately known as
the “First Lady of Vero Beach.” Loy feels as
many residents do, that whatever is built at
this location could well define Vero’s future
as the small town she has worked so hard
to preserve. “I believe if the public’s input
during the charrette process is reflected in
the final plans, we will have a result we can
all be proud of.” v
The Florida Power & Light electric substation is under construction on the former postal annex property.
DEVELOPMENT
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