In November 1996, the Utilities Department mailed letters in monthly utilities bills asking customers if they would be interested in participating in a Water Awareness Program. A Citizens' Water Awareness Program was launched in January 1997. By March 1997, a volunteer planning committee of 15 citizens began meeting to educate themselves and to plan ways to better inform other citizens regarding water as a resource.

The group's mission and accountabilities statement is attached. Three (3) working committees - Communications, Special Projects, and Meeting Programs - are designated to accomplish the committee's objectives.

In May 1997, the Communications Committee distributed a questionnaire in customer bills. 2,364 customers returned questionnaires for a return rate of 13.5 percent. Many customers made written comments on the questionnaires and some even took time to write letters.

More than 500 people responded that they are interested in public meetings to learn more about water resources. As a result, the Meeting Programs Committee developed and scheduled a series of eight (8) monthly programs entitled Florida Water 101 that started in October 1997.

• Schedule of meeting dates and topics.

To reach more people, each program is videotaped and packaged ready for broadcast on the local educational cable television channel. The tapes are also available for loan to schools and community/civic groups. Videotaping for the first five (5) programs is funded by the Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD). The Communications Committee has submitted an application to SWFWMD for additional funding to videotaped the last three (3) programs.