TARPON SPRINGS, FLA. — Concerns about the environment have stalled Tarpon Springs’ $45 million water project, the St. Petersburg Times reported.

The project, which was supposed to be completed two months ago, includes the construction of a reverse-osmosis treatment facility that would desalinate brackish water from several new wells, according to the story.

Officials are concerned that the drilling of the wells will cause sinkholes and they are also worried about the disposal of brine, which is a by-product of the desalination process, the article stated.

“A brackish groundwater resource is a responsible water resource,” said Bob Robertson, Tarpon Springs’ public services program manager. “We are not taking fresh groundwater. This project gives the city control over supply, quality and rates.”

The city is still seeking permits for the construction of the water treatment plant and for the discharge of brine into the Gulf of Mexico, according to the report.

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