The Dober Ditch living shoreline project was a focal point, nearing completion with plantings scheduled for late December. The project, awarded to Blue Terra at a cost of $34,289.80, aims to stabilize canal banks and mitigate sedimentation issues. Despite initial delays due to king tides, the project remained under budget, sparking interest in reallocating funds for further canal enhancements. The committee’s stormwater management strategy extends to future plans for fiscal year 2026 (FY26), featuring swale reclamation projects at Dover Circle, Garden Street, and North Do Road. These initiatives, under the “Save the Swales” campaign, aim to improve natural filtration and reduce flooding by regrading swales, which have garnered positive community response and volunteer support for additional property improvements.

Stormwater pipelining emerged as another topic, with five project areas identified for rehabilitation. Budget constraints led to the removal of two areas, while North Cypress Drive was prioritized due to a pipe failure. The strategy focuses on extending the lifespan of existing infrastructure, with an annual budget allocation of $100,000 and current projects estimated at $85,000, leaving a reserve for emergencies. The committee underscored the need for regular stormwater pond inspections, planning to utilize underwater cameras and divers to address blockages.

Water quality concerns, particularly regarding PFAS, were a point of discussion. A representative from the water treatment facility elaborated on the current water treatment process, highlighting the challenge of PFAS presence in the surficial aquifer, which the treatment plant does not remove. The committee is developing a master plan to address PFAS, considering various treatment methods to ensure regulatory compliance and operational efficiency. The urgency of this issue was amplified by recent evaluations showing PFAS levels nearing regulatory limits, prompting a community-wide concern for water quality.

The committee explored potential funding sources for PFAS remediation, acknowledging the limited success of the State Revolving Fund (SRF) and the need for additional grants from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and settlements with companies like 3M, DuPont, and BASF. Despite these challenges, the committee remains committed to finding cost-effective solutions that ensure long-term water quality improvements.

In parallel, the committee considered the potential Oyster Habitat Creation Program for 2026, which could involve community events to engage residents in environmental stewardship. Discussions included the logistics of hosting an oyster straining event at local parks, emphasizing family and community participation. The committee also debated the feasibility of an incentive program for mangrove planting, weighing the financial implications and equitable access for all community members.

Suggestions included enhancing visibility of stormwater inlet drains, implementing an “adopt a drain” program, and using educational campaigns to raise awareness about stormwater issues. The committee recognized the need for data-driven decisions, referencing successful monitoring programs from neighboring towns to guide their efforts.