Coral Springs Improvement District Receives FDEP 2022 Plant Operations Excellence Award

The Coral Springs Improvement District (CSID) is outdoing dozens of utilities departments that provide drinking water services across eight counties, according to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP). FDEP recognizing CSID with the prestigious 2022 Plant Operations Excellence Award.

Each year, FDEP’s Southeast District, which covers Monroe to Indian River County and represents approximately one-third of Florida’s total population, recognizes a facility that demonstrates a special commitment to excellent water quality while exceeding expectations in its operation, maintenance, innovation, waste reduction, recycling, and compliance.

CSID has been honored with the 2022 Plant Operations Excellence Award for its drinking water treatment plant in the category of medium community water systems that serve 3,300 to 50,000 people in FDEP’s Southeast District. In 2022, CSID processed more than 1.4 billion gallons of potable water. Among the 59 CSID employees, 11 staff members handle operating, monitoring, and maintaining all water system components to provide clean and safe drinking water that meets, and exceeds, stringent local, state, and federal standards. This includes staff monitoring the plant around the clock, every day of the year.

CSID also maintains 122 miles of potable water lines that run throughout the District. Furthermore, CSID plays a role in public safety. The District is responsible for supplying water to 810 fire hydrants, of which 712 are owned and maintained by CSID.

“This award adds yet another chapter in our successes,” said Ken Cassel, CSID, district manager. “It’s a tribute to the hard work and dedication of our staff. Our water operations and distribution team holds a wealth of knowledge, puts versatile experience to work each day, and takes great pride in providing outstanding water to our 39,000 customers.”

Safe water, innovation, and efficiency are major priorities for CSID, which were key factors recognized by FDEP. CSID has been able to reduce water loss over the past several years by efficiently servicing and maintaining potable water lines and furthering this mission by contracting with E-Source’s Water Systems Optimization (WSO) team and implementing a water loss program. Furthermore, the District invested in a standalone pressure sensitive diesel-powered pump that does not rely on FPL or a generator to function. When water distribution pressure drops below 55 psi, this high-powered engine automatically activates and, within seconds, achieves optimal pressure to keep distribution waters from dropping below the minimum mandated pressure.

At a time when customers are facing inflationary pressures and increased costs, CSID has also maintained one of the lowest billing rates in the area through management best-practices.

“While our District continues to be recognized and honored with awards, the real winners are the great residents and businesses who have chosen to put down roots within our District,” said David McIntosh, CSID, director of operations, and an employee for more than 16 years. He added, “We hold ourselves to very high standards with a focus on providing the highest quality water at the lowest possible cost to our customers and this award is a testament to our motto of ‘excellence to the last drop.’”

To help celebrate this recognition with customers, CSID is extending a public invitation to its Spring Open House. The family-fun event will take place on Saturday, April 29, 2023, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at CSID’s facility located at 10300 NW 11^th Manor, Coral Springs, FL 33071. The event includes tours of the award-winning facility, kids’ activities, and complimentary food.

Last year, CSID was named 2022 District of the Year by the Florida Association of Special Districts. CSID was formed in 1966 by the Florida State legislature.

For more information on CSID’s history and services, visit www.CSIDFL.org.