FR 2025-00354

Florida Gas Transmission Company, LLC has submitted a request to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) that seeks approval to construct a small pipeline extension in Hillsborough County, Florida. This development aims to reallocate existing gas delivery capacity, rather than expanding it, with the project's estimated cost set at $10.9 million. Stakeholders, including the public, have the opportunity to engage in the review process of this project by filing protests, interventions, or comments until March 4, 2025. More detailed information is accessible through FERC's website.

Key Issues and Concerns

The document outlines the project's cost but lacks a detailed breakdown of the $10.9 million estimate. Such a lack of specificity could raise concerns about potential inefficiencies or wasteful spending that need further scrutiny to ensure transparency and financial accountability.

The process for public engagement, although specified in the document, presents several complexities. For individuals without prior experience in such regulatory frameworks, the detailed instructions on filing protests, motions to intervene, or comments could become a barrier to participation. Simplifying the filing processes or offering more user-friendly guidance could boost public involvement in the review process.

Additionally, the document supplies numerous contact methods and addresses, which, while comprehensive, may also lead to confusion. Streamlining these communication channels or providing clearer instructions could help mitigate potential misunderstandings and increase effective public participation.

The intricate language describing the regulatory context could present a challenge for the general public, limiting their understanding and potentially diminishing their active engagement in the proceedings. Simplifying this language or providing explanations in layman's terms could make the document more accessible.

Impact on the Public and Stakeholders

Broadly, the document shows the mechanisms by which public involvement is facilitated in governmental projects, emphasizing transparency and civic engagement. While the opportunity for public comment is positive, the complexity involved could deter some from participating to the fullest extent.

The document may positively impact specific stakeholders such as local residents and environmental groups by providing them the chance to voice their concerns or support for the project. This is crucial in ensuring that development aligns with community interests and environmental standards.

Conversely, the complexity of navigating the process could disadvantage those without legal expertise, potentially skewing participation to those more familiar with such regulatory proceedings, such as businesses or larger organized groups. It is important to address and minimize these barriers to provide an equitable platform for all stakeholders.

In conclusion, while the notice from Florida Gas Transmission Company, LLC offers a structured procedure for public participation, significant improvements could enhance transparency and engagement. By addressing these issues, FERC can ensure a more inclusive and comprehensive review process.

The document provides notice regarding a project proposed by the Florida Gas Transmission Company, LLC (FGT). The project involves constructing a lateral loop pipeline in Hillsborough County, Florida. One key financial aspect is the estimated cost of $10.9 million for this infrastructure development. This figure is noted as being more fully detailed in FGT's request on file with the Commission, which is accessible to the public.

Summary of Financial Allocation

The primary financial detail in the document is the $10.9 million estimated cost for the construction of approximately 0.92 miles of pipeline and ancillary facilities. This investment is part of a project aimed at reallocating delivery capacity between existing delivery points. Notably, the document does not provide a breakdown of these costs or specific details regarding how this capital will be allocated across different phases or aspects of the project.

Financial References and Identified Issues

The absence of a detailed breakdown of the $10.9 million project cost could potentially raise questions regarding the allocation and transparency of the funding. Stakeholders, including the public or other interested parties, might find the lack of detail concerning, as they may wish to understand more about how the financial resources will be distributed across the various components of the project. This concern can be linked to the broader issue of potential wasteful spending, where the allocation and utilization of funds might not be scrutinized without sufficient transparency.

Additionally, while the document provides thorough instructions for public engagement regarding the project, the complexity of these procedures might deter participation, especially from individuals unfamiliar with such regulatory processes. Simplification of these procedures or providing additional guidance and support could facilitate more effective public input, particularly with regards to financial spending concerns. This highlights a need for accessible communication to ensure stakeholders can comfortably express any financial oversight issues they may perceive.

In summary, while the document outlines a significant spending measure of $10.9 million, the lack of specific financial breakdowns and the potential complexity of participation processes may pose challenges for transparent and effective public oversight and engagement in the project's financial aspects.