§ 126-132. Abandonments.

It is the intent of the Board that water or wastewater service to customers of a Utility not be interrupted by the abandonment or placement into receivership of the Utility. To that end, no Franchisee shall abandon the Utility without giving a 120-day notice to the County.

(a)

The owner of the Utility and/or the Franchisee shall remain ultimately liable for all debts and claims of the abandoned Utility until subsequent transfer of ownership. The County shall have the right to take all necessary legal action to ensure compliance with this requirement.

(b)

Abandonment without notice shall be treated as a misdemeanor of the first degree, punishable as provided in Florida law and other such legal actions as may be appropriate.

(c)

Abandonment with less than a 120-day notice shall constitute a violation of this article. The Board may impose upon the Utility a penalty for each offense of not more than $1,000.00. Each day less than the 120-day notice period shall be treated as a separate offense.

(Ord. No. 2016-041, § 2, 9-21-2016)