Letter to the Editor

I was dismayed at the horrific article dated June 14, 2002 by Mike Segal. Not only did he misrepresent facts, he also did not perform any research. It appears that the intent of the article is to gather the clam farmers against Cedar Key Plantation. If Mr. Segal had even begun to discuss the project with the developer, the SRWMD, the FDEP, the aquaculture industry, or myself, then he would surely not have written such and article. I am equally embarrassed for you to approve the article for publication.

At any time the developer would be happy to present you with facts. However, since it appears that may not be the style of reporting you support, I will provide a couple for you. I think the only fact that Mr. Segal did get correct was the property could be developed with septic tanks, however, based on concerns by the aquaculture industry and the SRWMD, the developer has agreed to install central potable water and sanitary sewer systems exceeding typical requirements. These systems will meet or exceed all Levy County, SRWMD, and FDEP regulations, including the flood zone criteria. The property is location in Flood Zone V16, which by FEMA (and Levy County) regulations, section 60.3 requires new "sanitary sewage systems to be designed to minimize or eliminate infiltration of flood waters into the systems and discharges from the systems into flood waters." Clearly, a system will not be constructed that would discharge during any storm event or a hurricane.

We have consistently worked with all interested parties to provide the most desirable way to develop the property. Yes, the project will be constructed, and it will be a state-of-the-art installation that either the City of Cedar Key, the Cedar Key Water and Sewage District, or Levy County would love to own, operate, and benefit from, however, none of those bodies have expressed an interest. Quite possibly, they also have not done their research. It is our goal that once operational, the entire community will be proud of the development.
Again, I offer any information you desire.

Sincerely,
Stuart I. Cullen, P.E.
Vice-President
Brown & Cullen Inc.