STUART — Two weeks after a natural-gas pipeline rupture shut down the two major thoroughfares leading to South Florida, more than 20 miles of the pipe remain closed and investigators are still trying to figure out why it failed.

The May 4 blast along Florida’s Turnpike in Martin County caused a 113-foot-long segment of the pipe to be ejected from the ground and hurtled alongside the highway, according to an initial report from the federal Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration.

Though the cause of the rupture remains unclear, the report raises the possibility that a seam in the pipe may have been a factor. The 18-inch-wide pipe was manufactured by Youngstown Sheet and Tube in 1959. (more…)

STUART — To contend with the ongoing budgetary uncertainties facing local governments, Stuart City commissioners Monday unanimously approved an early retirement incentive package for city workers.

In addition to regular retirement benefits, city employees who would be eligible for retirement by Sept. 30 can opt to receive 36 months of paid insurance at their current coverage and premium level or a lump-sum, before-tax payout of $20,000, said Stuart City Manager Dan Hudson.
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Before you turn on that sprinkler, check the time, check the date and check over your shoulder.

The water management districts covering the Treasure Coast are revving up efforts to catch illegal lawn waterers.

But they’re going at it in different ways:

The South Florida Water Management District, which includes Martin and St. Lucie counties, is relying on local governments for enforcement. The St. Johns River Water Management District, which includes Indian River County, plans to hire private contractors.

At a workshop Thursday, officials with the South Florida district, gave a pep talk to local law enforcement officials charged with enforcing watering restrictions. Representatives from the Stuart and Port St. Lucie Police departments, the Martin County Sheriff’s Office and the Jupiter Island Public Safety Office attended. (more…)