Money, Mandates, and Water Management: Foreshadowing A Florida Disaster

21 Vermont Journal of Environmental Law 1 (2019)

St. Thomas University School of Law (Florida) Research Paper No. 2020-02

54 Pages Posted: 19 Nov 2020

See all articles by Keith W. Rizzardi

Keith W. Rizzardi

St. Thomas University School of Law

Date Written: 2019

Abstract

Repeated failures to properly regulate, manage and maintain water resources and infrastructure creates enormous risks and consequences, across the US. and beyond. Applying those lessons, this study offacts, data, and law foreshadows a water management disaster in Florida. At the South Florida Water Management District, a critical regional agency, budget and staffing are now below 1996 levels. Regulatory scrutiny and enforcement have declined. Infrastructure is inadequately maintained. Rainy day reserve funds are kept at bare minimums. Important new laws are merely unfunded mandates. Florida officials must recognize the magnitude of the problems, offer meaningful leadership to restore water management finances and capabilities, and protect the public before the next flood, harmful algal bloom, or other disaster comes.

Suggested Citation

Rizzardi, Keith W., Money, Mandates, and Water Management: Foreshadowing A Florida Disaster (2019). 21 Vermont Journal of Environmental Law 1 (2019), St. Thomas University School of Law (Florida) Research Paper No. 2020-02, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=3733890

Keith W. Rizzardi (Contact Author)

St. Thomas University School of Law ( email )

16401 N.W. 37th Ave.
Miami, FL 33054
United States
305.474.2422 (Phone)

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