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Dear Mr. Battista:

On behalf of the Citrus County Commission you ask the following question:

Is the mechanical harvesting of aquatic vegetation and tussock removal (floating islands) a public work pursuant to section 255.05, Florida Statutes?

You indicate that Citrus County contracts with private parties to remove aquatic weeds and floating tussocks which impede the navigable waterways within the county. While the waterways are owned by the state, the county undertakes clearing them in order to ensure navigability. The county currently has a three-year contract for a potential expenditure of…