A significant portion of the meeting focused on the elevation of homes and flood mitigation in response to recent storms. Participants expressed concern about homes built on block structures with inadequately elevated ground floors, particularly garages, which are susceptible to flooding. One participant emphasized the need for resilience in new constructions, urging the council to review and potentially revise existing codes to ensure adequate protection against future flooding events.

Further exploration of the issue revealed that many homes are located in low-lying areas, exacerbating flooding problems. The need for compliance with FEMA guidelines was acknowledged, with participants noting the importance of ensuring that new constructions adhere to these regulations to mitigate flooding risks effectively. A suggestion was made to review a recent Town Hall meeting that addressed these issues.

The conversation also covered the elevation of roads and their impact on flooding. Participants noted that some roads are only a few feet above sea level, posing challenges during high tides and heavy rains. There was a call to explore immediate actions to elevate roads and improve drainage infrastructure, recognizing that some homes are built at or below the elevation of surrounding streets, exacerbating flooding issues.

Stormwater management was another topic, with discussions centered on an ongoing stormwater study by a company referred to as Bell. Participants emphasized the need for enhanced measures to protect coastal areas, acknowledging the challenges posed by Port Richey’s low elevation. The concept of retaining stormwater for a 24-hour period during a 100-year flood event was suggested as a buffer for local flooding issues. Additionally, the idea of creating a “life preserver” around Port Richey and Newport Richey was introduced as a proactive strategy, involving acquiring land to hold excess water and improving drainage systems.

The deterioration of roads due to flooding and inadequate drainage was also addressed, with specific references to the condition of Old Post Road. Participants advocated for the use of durable road materials, such as concrete, to withstand storm damage. There was a call for larger stormwater pipes instead of existing smaller ditches, with proposals for implementing 36-inch pipes in busy roadways to improve drainage capacity. A specific proposal involved creating a drainage system beneath Bay Boulevard to alleviate flooding, recognizing the potential impact of road elevation on adjacent properties.

The meeting also delved into the complexities of the city’s Comprehensive Plan, particularly concerning coastal management and environmental considerations. Discussions revolved around the encouragement of native vegetation, such as mangroves, for erosion control and storm surge protection, while acknowledging the challenges they may pose, including obstructing man-made canals. Participants expressed frustration over managing mangrove growth due to regulatory protections, highlighting the need to balance ecological benefits with urban development practicalities.

Zoning and land use management were also discussed, focusing on the management of impervious surfaces. Participants expressed dissatisfaction with current practices that allow developers to create designs based on a certain percentage of hard surfaces, only for homeowners to modify properties later without considering stormwater impacts. There was an emphasis on resilience in urban planning, with strategies including elevating structures and avoiding construction in flood-prone areas. The potential for more tailored regulations specific to various geographical areas within the city was suggested, along with the exploration of innovative building designs to enhance resilience while maintaining aesthetic appeal.