DEP Grants Permit for RO Water Treatment Plant in Tarpon Springs

Despite a challenge from a local resident, the state Department of Environmental Protection has granted Tarpon Springs a needed permit to build a $45 million reverse osmosis water treatment facility.

Last April, Henry Ross of Tarpon Springs requested a hearing with the state's Division of Administrative Hearings. He wanted DEP to deny an environmental permit the city needed to build the water treatment plant.

During the September hearing, Ross claimed that manatees, sea grass, sea turtles and the habitat would be adversely affected by effluent that would be discharged into an industrial canal.

In December the administrative law judge determined that Ross lacked standing to challenge the project and did not present any evidence to prove his allegations. On Jan. 28, DEP awarded the permit to the city.

Ross now has 30 days to appeal. City officials expect an appeal.

In addition, Ross filed a similar complaint...