The proposed Storm Water Advisory Board would comprise five members, including two citizens from Port Orange, a Florida licensed civil engineer, a Division One contractor, and a dewatering specialist. This diverse team is intended to provide a comprehensive approach to identifying and solving stormwater issues. The council noted that having a second pair of eyes could be crucial in spotting potential flaws and suggesting improvements that may have been overlooked.

In conjunction with the advisory board proposal, a comprehensive stormwater master plan is nearing completion. This plan, initiated after Hurricane Ian, is expected to guide future construction and infrastructure projects. It involves modeling the city’s drainage systems to pinpoint areas needing improvement. The council emphasized the importance of this master plan in securing state and federal funding, particularly through grant applications that require detailed documentation of potential project impacts.

Public Works employees were acknowledged for their dedication during recent storms, working extensive hours to manage the aftermath. The council stressed the importance of public understanding of the efforts being made, balancing the reality of ongoing flooding issues with the acknowledgment of staff contributions.

The meeting also addressed specific infrastructure concerns, including the inadequacy of existing systems to handle extreme weather events. The Nova Canal was particularly highlighted as a challenge, requiring collaboration with neighboring cities to address water flow and flooding problems. The council discussed a vulnerability study in progress, which could unlock additional state funding to tackle these issues.

The discussion moved to the Cambridge project, a temporary fix following damage from Hurricane Nicole. This project, currently at 50% design completion, aims to establish a more effective barrier against flooding, with construction potentially starting in the fall of the following year. The council outlined the necessity of obtaining various permits before construction can commence, highlighting the project’s importance in preventing future storm-related flooding.

Residents voiced concerns during the public comments segment, focusing on flooding and drainage issues in neighborhoods like Beacon Woods and Pona. Many residents described personal experiences with inadequate drainage systems and the resulting flooding, urging the council to take immediate action. The need for better communication and transparency from city officials regarding development projects and infrastructure management was a recurring theme.

The council also discussed amendments to several ordinances, including the Anglers Cove PUD Master Development Agreement and the Land Development Code. These amendments focused on modifications related to screen enclosures and eligibility for economic development incentives. Additionally, changes to the police and fire rescue pension fund ordinances were approved.

Lastly, a council member reported on the River to Sea Transportation Planning Organization, soon to be renamed “Volusia-Flagler TPO,” and expressed pride in being appointed as the first vice chairperson, noting improvements in the organization’s audit processes.