1/23/2025 Central FL DPC

Central Florida DPC Minutes

Meeting Date: January 23rd, 2025
Location: Sunshine 811 Call Center, 11 Plantation Rd, DeBary FL 32713
Lunch provided by GeoPoint Surveying and Sunshine 811
Attendance: 28 Total Attendees

Opening Remarks

  • Emphasized the importance of teamwork and maintaining respect within the group.

Agenda Overview

  1. Announcements & Updates

    • Exactix Screen: Take the time to read announcements on your Exactix screen to stay updated on important changes and communications.

    • Bimonthly Newsletter: The first edition of Sunshine 811’s News & Updates was sent out in January, providing readers with updates on 811 and DPCs.

    • 811 Essentials: A complete review of the 811 process and stakeholder responsibilities. It is available in three formats:

      • Online - coming soon

      • Monthly webinars the second Thursday of each month at noon - includes Q&A

      • In-person taught by 811 safety education liaisons - includes Q&A. Contact a liaison to schedule.

    • Ticket Records: On January 6, 2025, 11,218 tickets were entered, with 9,765 ITE tickets entered by excavators.

    • Upcoming CGA Meeting: Scheduled for April 7-10, 2025 in Orlando.

 

  1. Open Discussion

    • Ticket Timeliness:

      • Legislation to expand the locate timeframe from two to three full business days was unsuccessful.

      • Check positive responses early and respond immediately if no proper response is received within 2 days.

      • Contact liaisons when appropriate contact details are not listed in Exactix, and submit noncompliance reports to notify members and maintain records.

    • Design Phase Process:

      • Discussion on how different companies utilize the design phase.

      • Design phase should be used to plan projects, taking into consideration existing underground facilities, to avoid last-minute surprises.

    • Accuracy of Ticket Information:

      • Ensure correct contact information and proper utility markings.

      • Address issues where contractors call in unnecessary tickets.

    • Sewer Laterals:

      • Clarification needed on whether sewer laterals are public or private.

      • Check responses and reach out for discussions if needed; private locators may be required.

    • Liability for Damages:

      • Concerns about liability for private and public line damage, especially sewer laterals in the ROW.

      • Take site pictures for documentation and litigation purposes.

    • Safety and Training:

      • Reinforced the importance of safety and verifying marks before excavation.

    • Municipality Coordination:

      • Emphasized maintaining professionalism and effective communication with municipalities.

    • Homeowner and HOA Education:

      • Efforts to educate homeowners and HOAs about 811 dig laws.

    • Contractor Responsibility:

      • Contractors must verify locate marks and ensure ticket details (scope, address, cross street, contact info) are accurate.

      • Contractors should check marks a few days before excavation and ensure visibility.

    • Bleed Over:

      • Discussed locating issues with utility bleed-over and why depth cannot be provided.

  2. Next Steps

    • Encourage more proactive communication internally and with municipalities to prevent issues.

    • Follow up on safety protocols to ensure contractors are well-trained and informed.

    • Establish good communication relationships with locators to minimize issues.

W Schaefer