UCNSB 2025 SHOCKWAVES: 5 Major Projects And Rate Changes Rocking New Smyrna Beach Utilities

The Utilities Commission of New Smyrna Beach (UCNSB) is currently navigating one of its most transformative periods, with a series of high-impact projects and critical financial decisions set to redefine utility services for residents throughout 2025 and beyond. As of December 22, 2025, the focus is sharply on a comprehensive rate review and a massive infrastructure upgrade aimed at protecting the area’s most vital natural resource, the Indian River Lagoon. The decisions being made now—from the adoption of cutting-edge "Digital Twin" technology for the electric grid to a multi-million dollar water quality initiative—will directly influence monthly utility bills, service reliability, and environmental health for years to come. Understanding the details of these five major initiatives is essential for every property owner and resident in the New Smyrna Beach area.

Key Personnel and Governance of the UCNSB

The Utilities Commission of New Smyrna Beach (UCNSB) operates as a separate entity from the City of New Smyrna Beach Commission, though its commissioners are appointed by the City Commission, ensuring accountability to the local government. The UCNSB is responsible for providing electric, water, wastewater, and reclaimed water services to its customer base. The leadership team and key personnel driving the 2025 initiatives include:

• James "Buddy" Davenport: A confirmed Commissioner for the Utilities Commission of NSB, Davenport plays a key role in setting the strategic direction of the organization and overseeing major project approvals.
• Tom A. Cloud: Serves as the General Counsel to the Utilities Commission of New Smyrna Beach. His role is critical in navigating the legal and regulatory landscape of all major projects and rate revisions, including those related to the Florida Public Service Commission (PSC).
• E. Chavez: Holds the position of Director of Finance, a central figure in the ongoing 2025 Utility Rate Study and the development of the FY 2026 Budget.
• Dana Hale: A key administrative contact within the UCNSB organization, often involved in project coordination and public communications.
• The UCNSB Board: The full board is responsible for authorizing major financial decisions, including the issuance of 2025 Revenue Bonds and the approval of the Cost of Service Study.

The 2025 Utility Rate Study and Proposed Fee Revisions

The most immediate and financially relevant development for New Smyrna Beach residents is the active 2025 Utility Rate Study. This study is the foundation for proposed revisions to the UCNSB’s Water, Wastewater, and Reclaimed Water Service Rates, Charges, and Fees. The need for a comprehensive rate adjustment stems from several factors, including:

• Infrastructure Debt: The UCNSB is planning to issue 2025 Revenue Bonds to finance necessary capital improvements and system upgrades. The new rate structure must generate sufficient revenue to cover the additional debt service.
• Increasing Operational Costs: Like most utilities, UCNSB is facing rising costs for materials, power purchases, and labor, necessitating a review to ensure the utility remains financially solvent through its projections to 2029.
• Fair Cost Allocation: The Cost of Service Study aims to ensure that each customer class (residential, commercial, industrial) pays a fair share based on their actual use and the cost to serve them, a standard practice in utility management.

Public hearings, often referred to as Preliminary (First Reading) Public Hearings, are a mandatory part of this process, giving residents a chance to review and comment on the proposed changes before they are finalized and implemented in the upcoming fiscal year.

$11.4 Million Silver Sands Project: The Septic to Sewer Breakthrough

One of the most significant environmental and infrastructure projects underway is the Septic to Sewer initiative, which received a massive financial boost in the 2024-2025 funding cycle. The UCNSB was awarded a substantial $11.4 million through the Indian River Lagoon (IRL) Water Quality Improvement program for the Silver Sands Project. This funding is a game-changer, directly addressing a critical environmental concern: the impact of aging septic systems on the delicate ecosystem of the Indian River Lagoon. * Project Goal: The primary objective is to convert existing septic systems in targeted areas, such as the Silver Sands neighborhood, to the central sewer system. * Environmental Impact: Converting septic tanks to sewer dramatically reduces the nitrogen and phosphorus runoff that pollutes the IRL, a major factor in harmful algal blooms and declining water quality. * Strategic Upgrade: This project is part of a larger strategic plan by the UCNSB and the City to upgrade facilities and enhance wastewater treatment capacity across New Smyrna Beach. This initiative demonstrates a strong commitment by the UCNSB to long-term water quality and environmental stewardship in Florida.

The Future of Energy: Solar and Digital Twin Technology

The UCNSB is not just focused on traditional infrastructure; it is also aggressively pursuing modern energy solutions to enhance grid reliability and promote clean energy access.

Solar Project Phase II and Renewable Energy

The push for renewable energy is moving forward with the Solar Project Phase II Update. The UCNSB is a member of the Florida Municipal Power Agency (FMPA), which is actively involved in solar energy generation across the state. The Phase II discussions involve future build-out plans and project pricing comparisons for NSB-owned facilities, following up on a previous feasibility study for the Western Utility Complex. The continued focus on solar power is a key part of the utility's commitment to sustainable, long-term power generation that benefits its customers.

Implementing the Electric Grid Digital Twin

In a remarkable step toward modernization, the Utilities Commission of New Smyrna Beach is implementing a Digital Twin of its electric assets. This advanced technology creates a virtual replica of the entire electric grid. The Digital Twin allows UCNSB engineers and operators to:

• Model Scenarios: Simulate the impact of storms, new construction, or equipment failures before they happen, improving disaster preparedness.
• Optimize Performance: Analyze system performance in real-time to boost efficiency and reduce power outages.
• Support DER: Crucially, the Digital Twin helps assess Distributed Energy Resources (DER) hosting capacity, which directly supports equitable access for customers who are installing rooftop solar or battery storage systems.

This investment in smart grid technology positions UCNSB as a leader in Florida's municipal power sector, ensuring a more resilient and modern electric service for the community.

Coordinated Utility Planning and Community Engagement

The success of these major projects—from the rate structure to the septic-to-sewer conversion—hinges on seamless coordination between the UCNSB and the City of New Smyrna Beach Commission. Joint workshops are regularly held to align the strategic goals of the utility with the city's overall development and financial planning. The financial planning for Fiscal Year 2025 and 2026, including the FY 2026 Budget, is currently underway, reflecting the projected costs and revenues associated with these massive infrastructure upgrades and technology implementations. Residents are encouraged to monitor the official UCNSB and City websites for meeting schedules and public notifications regarding the rate study and project updates. The Utilities Commission's commitment to transparency ensures that the community remains informed about the critical decisions that shape the future of utility services in New Smyrna Beach.

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