As projects are proposed by Tampa Bay Water, the Water Resource Team will conduct an initial review and assign a Project Manager and legal counsel. These individuals may be County staff members, Environmental Protection Commission staff or consultants retained by the County.

The Project Manager typically is the individual most familiar or knowledgeable with the technical aspects of the project. After these selections are made, a Project Team is developed based on the types of expertise necessary to fully evaluate the project. The Project Manager is responsible for coordinating all activities of the team.

The Water Resource Team also uses other internal County resources during the review of projects as required to protect the County's interests. Representatives of the Water Department, Real Estate, Public Works, Debt Management, Planning & Growth Management, Parks & Recreation, Solid Waste Management, and Budget departments frequently are called upon to review proposals and lend their expertise to the Water Team.

After a thorough examination of each project, the Water Resource Team completes reports and recommendations to the County Administrator, the County Attorney, and the Environmental Protection Commission Executive Director. This information also is transmitted to the two County Commissioners serving as Board members of Tampa Bay Water and to all other Commissioners.

Decisions by the Board of County Commissioners and the Environmental Protection Commission are required prior to official action on petition or arbitration. In all cases, the group will attempt to reach a consensus with Tampa Bay Water and regulatory agencies. However, the County's commitment to its citizens to bring new sources on board with sensitivity and protection of our natural resources will be the dominant theme of the team's operations.