PETITION TO OPPOSE ABOVE-GROUND UTILITY LINES ASSOCIATED WITH
“Mulholland Rd Tie to Twin Rivers” – Application #889626, ROW Permit #2309-0002

Twin Rivers residents are encouraged to review the following background information regarding the recently installed above-ground utility poles located in the rear of 27th Ct E and connecting to the planned “Mulholland Rd Tie to Twin Rivers” project.

Twin Rivers was intentionally designed and developed with underground utilities to preserve the rural, scenic, and natural character of the community. Residents have expressed significant concern and opposition to the installation of above-ground utility infrastructure that is inconsistent with the established appearance and expectations of the neighborhood.

Through communications with Manatee County and PRECO (Peace River Electric Cooperative), residents learned that the project was initially proposed by PRECO staff as an underground utility installation. During PRECO’s internal review process, however, the project was later changed to an above-ground installation. The explanation provided was that the specific 20-foot strip of land involved was not considered “platted” property subject to Twin Rivers underground utility development standards, despite being fully surrounded by communities developed with underground utilities.

County officials have also confirmed that the ROW Use Permit associated with this project was formally extended multiple times and later modified to reflect the above-ground installation now constructed.

Residents additionally contacted the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) regarding the proposed Phase II utility bore beneath Gamble Creek. FDEP responded with the following statement:

“The applicant for this project, Peace River Electric Cooperative, has twice submitted applications to DEP, but neither has qualified for a permit due to a lack of sufficient information. At this time, DEP has no permit applications under review regarding this project.”

Despite ongoing discussions regarding potential underground alternatives, the County has advised that efforts to obtain participation from the adjacent southern development toward the cost of underground conversion have been unsuccessful.

While explanations regarding permitting and jurisdictional technicalities have been provided, many residents believe the final outcome remains incompatible with the character, planning principles, and aesthetic standards historically maintained within Twin Rivers.

By signing this petition, residents formally express:

• Disapproval of the above-ground utility installation associated with this project;
• Request to convert current installation to underground;
• Opposition to future expansion of above-ground utility infrastructure surrounding Twin Rivers where underground alternatives are feasible; and
• Support for preserving the underground utility standards and rural character of our community.
   

Sincerely,

Twin Rivers Association, Inc.
Board of Directors