Florida's water wars are igniting again, pitting north against south.

A group of business leaders says it's time to consider transferring water from places that have it to those that don't.

Though the Florida Council of 100, a business group that advises the governor, isn't specifically recommending that water from North Florida be piped to South and Central Florida, environmentalists and local government officials fear that's what it has in mind.

"South Florida is looking for inexpensive water, and they don't care how they get it," said Jacksonville City Councilman Lake Ray.

The Council of 100 recently issued a report that also recommends transferring authority over water-supply issues from Florida's five water management districts to a new state commission that would guarantee developers get enough water for future growth.

Local governments are now scrambling to protect their turf and storming into what many see as a lengthy battle over the state water supply. Last month, the Jacksonville City Council passed a resolution urging the Legislature not to allow water transfers -- a path several other water-rich governments also have taken.

Florida water policy allows water transfers only after all local options, including re-use, conservation and desalination, are exhausted.