Implementation of the STEP System to reduce Lagoon Pollution

Explanation: A main tenant of the Florida Existing Building Code (FEBC) states that a building can remain occupied as long as it’s usage and area are not altered in accordance with FEBC paragraph 101.4, included below. Therefore, the City of Vero Beach would have to apply to the Florida Building Commission in order to require mandatory connection.  

[A] 101.4 Applicability. This code shall apply to the repair, alteration, change of occupancy, addition and relocation of existing buildings, regardless of occupancy, subject to the criteria of Sections 101.4.1 and 101.4.2. 

[A] 101.4.1 Buildings not previously occupied. A building or portion of a building that has not been previously occupied or used for its intended purpose in accordance with the laws in existence at the time of its completion shall be permitted to comply with the provisions of the laws in existence at the time of its original permit unless such permit has expired. Subsequent permits shall comply with the Florida Building Code, Building or Florida Building Code, Residential, as applicable, for new construction. 

[A] 101.4.2 Buildings previously occupied. The legal occupancy of any building existing on the date of adoption of this code shall be permitted to continue without change, except as is specifically covered in this code, the Florida Fire Prevention Code, or as is deemed necessary by the code official for the general safety and welfare of the occupants and the public. 

Lastly, how can we assist the citizens connect to the STEP system. 

            As with any change in the Municipal or Building Code requirements, money is involved. The question of who and how the payment is made must be paramount in the City Council’s mind. Since no one wants to spend money to fix a problem they perceive is not their responsibility I suggest two tactics:

• Educating the public by developing a slide show to present at locations in the multiple STEP Basins and to share via streaming. Sometimes, a little education works wonders when dealing with out-of-touch property owners. 
• Developing a  basic STEP related Grant Program that allows the City Staff to use the consultant data documenting a reduction of pollutants into the Indian River Lagoon to apply for State, National and Private Water Centric Grants and disperse the money to the property owners solely based upon financial need.