In an in-depth analysis, the committee examined the effects of sea level rise and tidal flooding on Tarpon Springs’ infrastructure, identifying areas and assets that could be inundated by 2040, including coastal wetlands and significant city structures such as Tarpon Springs High School and the wastewater treatment facility. The committee also discussed the risks posed by a major 100-year storm and the implications of a Category 2 hurricane storm surge, as modeled by the National Hurricane Center.

To address these challenges, the committee considered a series of action areas that could prioritize vulnerable neighborhoods and infrastructure. Strategies included establishing a city seawall elevation policy, updating the Parks master plan to mitigate flood risk from smaller events, and hardening critical facilities to ensure quicker service restoration post-disaster. Specific projects eligible for funding under Resilient Florida, such as stormwater and roadway improvements, were also discussed. The construction of the new Fire Station 70 was highlighted for its emphasis on resilience to storm surge.

The committee’s dialogue revealed a strong consensus on the necessity of resilient planning and infrastructure investments to confront the impending realities of climate change. Additionally, the committee members noted the need for a vulnerability assessment to guide future grant applications for coastal resiliency projects.

Beyond the focus on environmental resilience, the committee explored objectives for the city’s sustainability communication plan. Goals for the plan included educating the community about local environmental concerns, engaging the business community, and enhancing community connectivity. The committee debated how best to reach these objectives, emphasizing the importance of partnerships with local businesses and utilizing resources such as the Tampa Bay Estuary program. Ideas such as creating neighborhood associations and implementing sustainability tours for homes and businesses were proposed to foster community engagement.

Further discussions touched on the need for consistent marketing messages to build a connected community and the exploration of community events centered on gardening and sustainability. Members considered the impact of a new bill signed by the governor, which could preempt local government authority, on the committee’s goals and local initiatives. The committee also discussed the importance of integrating the various communities within Tarpon Springs and the challenge of engaging new residents.

The meeting also addressed the vulnerability of the city’s septic tanks to flooding, particularly in light of the recent Hurricane Adelia. Members expressed a preference for proactive mitigation measures over adaptation strategies to combat climate change’s effects. Future agenda items were outlined, including a presentation on tree removal and Duke Energy’s right of way, updates on the climate action plan, and the introduction of a new sustainability coordinator.