Miami-Dade advances feasibility study for FOG compliance loan program

Miami-Dade advances feasibility study for FOG compliance loan programThe county is exploring a partnership with a local credit union to offset the financial burden of wastewater regulations on the local restaurant industry.

The Board unanimously approved a resolution to analyze a revolving loan program for FOG compliance.

The program would potentially be administered by the Dade County Federal Credit Union or a similar local financial institution.

Commissioners emphasized the high cost of compliance for the restaurant sector, urging the administration to expedite pending FOG reports.

The Board also approved a $6.65 million contract with Arcadis U.S., Inc. for water and sewer rate analysis and bond engineering services.

During its June 16, 2026 meeting, the Miami-Dade Board of County Commissioners unanimously approved a resolution directing the county administration to analyze the feasibility of a low-interest revolving loan program aimed at helping local small businesses comply with Fats, Oils, and Grease (FOG) regulations. The proposed program would be administered by the Dade County Federal Credit Union or a similar trusted local financial institution. The initiative is designed to assist businesses—particularly restaurants—with the capital costs associated with financing and installing necessary FOG management infrastructure to prevent sewer system blockages. During the discussion, Commissioner Bermúdez emphasized the regulatory burden placed on the food service industry, noting that compliance costs are making it "much more difficult" to do business in the county. He urged the administration to expedite outstanding FOG reports that were previously requested within a 90-day window, highlighting that the regulatory hurdles have even impacted out-of-state operators attempting to open new restaurant locations in Miami-Dade. In a separate utility finance action during the meeting, the Board also approved an item ratifying a $6.65 million non-exclusive professional services agreement with Arcadis U.S., Inc. The contract covers water and sewer rates, fee analysis, and bond engineering services for the Miami-Dade Water and Sewer Department.