DeSantis signs bill locking in state control of GRU as utility raises water rates
Gov. Ron DeSantis signed House Bill 1451, which affirms the authority of the state-appointed board overseeing Gainesville Regional Utilities and blocks the city from reclaiming control — overriding a voter-approved ballot initiative from last year that had already been paused by a court challenge. The GRU Authority approved its fiscal year budget alongside the signing, including a 2% water rate increase and a 1.75% wastewater rate increase. City leaders condemned the measure as an entrenchment of an unwanted state takeover, while supporters argued it provides stability and benefits customers.
Sources: Mainstreet Daily News · WCJB TV20
