Daytona Beach Charter Amendment: A Risk to Water Resiliency
In November 2027, Daytona Beach voters will decide whether to approve a Charter Amendment limiting reclaimed water. While supporters say it will protect their drinking water and slow development, the amendment will instead limit your community’s flexibility to use highly treated reclaimed water as a cost-effective and resilient water option.
The Charter Amendment prohibits using highly treated and disinfected reclaimed water for aquifer replenishment and potable reuse. Aquifer replenishment using highly treated reclaimed water is a common practice, especially among coastal communities like Tampa Bay, to increase aquifer levels and slow the rate of saltwater intrusion along the coast. Potable reuse begins with clear, disinfected reclaimed water and involves purifying it through a multi-step, rigorous purification process so it can be used safely and reliably for drinking.
Potable reuse is already utilized across the United States and around the world. While it is an available water supply option in Florida, it is not mandated by the state and Daytona Beach has no current plans to purify recycled water for drinking. But a “No” vote on the Charter Amendment will preserve flexibility for future generations.
Water is too precious to be used just once. Through nature, all water has been used and reused since the beginning of time. Using advanced technology to recycle water merely accelerates a natural process to make our communities more resilient.
About Water Reuse
Water reuse is a clean, safe, and versatile water supply which can strengthen Florida’s resilience. Learn more:
Why should I vote no on the 2026 Daytona Beach Charter Amendment?
Raises Cost of Living
Limiting options for water utilities can add to costs, which get passed on to residents in our water bills. Now is not the time to add more pocketbook pressure.
Won’t Limit Development
If residents want to limit development, the appropriate tools are zoning and land-use decisions—not restrictions on water. Even with the charter amendment, new developments could still be built using water-efficient methods or alternate water supplies.
Risks Future Water Supplies
Aquifer replenishment using highly treated reclaimed water is a common practice, especially among coastal communities like Tampa Bay, to increase aquifer levels and slow the rate of saltwater intrusion along the coast. Banning potable reuse risks future water supply strategies that could help Daytona Beach.
Not Relevant to Daytona Beach
Potable reuse is not mandated by the state and Daytona Beach has no current plans to purify recycled water for drinking. The charter amendment is not relevant to the city’s plans but will create more red tape and restrictions that could affect the ability of future generations to adapt and thrive.