DEBARY, Fla. – City leaders are getting an update on a plan to convert hundreds of homes from septic tanks to a central sewer system, as there are ongoing concerns about pollution in Gemini Springs.
At a special meeting on Wednesday, DeBary council members will discuss engineering, construction, and funding strategies for an action plan for the springs, which includes the Septic-to-Sewer Program.
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In June 2025, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection indicated nitrate levels in Gemini Springs were increasing, and the agency previously determined 40% of the contamination was linked to septic tanks.
Last year, the state legislature approved an appropriation to Volusia County to begin engineering work to convert around 700 homes in phase one of the conversion program.
To handle the increased capacity, Volusia County Utilities has been working on a $70 million expansion of DeBary’s water treatment plant.
Last month, the county approved the engineering contract to design the first phase of the focus area.
City and county leaders are seeking grant opportunities to pay for construction, residential hookup costs for homes, and to support residents who are burdened with replacing failed septic tanks before conversion.
The DeLand City Council is expected to give guidance on funding strategies during its meeting on Wednesday at 6:30 p.m.