Central to the meeting was the discussion on setting rules for groundwater table elevations. The committee examined various methods for determining these levels, considering factors like rainfall, adjacent development, and soil composition. The number of borings required for gathering data was a contentious point, as members weighed the necessity of precision against cost and future planning implications. The need for regular maintenance of stormwater ponds, including dredging for wet ponds and cleaning for dry ponds, was emphasized to ensure optimal function.

Deliberations included whether to implement a trial basis for new rules and the consequences of setting elevations too high, possibly leading to increased costs and land use limitations. The quality of geotechnical reports and detailed soil analysis emerged as crucial for accurate seasonal high elevation settings. The committee also explored using vegetative indicators to establish water levels and acknowledged the variability in elevation due to landscape differences and mounding effects.

The conversation then shifted to the variability of the groundwater table and the role of culverts in establishing seasonal highs. Some members stressed the importance of precision in regulations, while others suggested adding a safety factor to the seasonal high water table. The use of soil scientists to determine long-term seasonal high averages was discussed, as was the projection of these averages for future planning. The committee broached the possibility of amending rules to specify a minimum number of borings for groundwater assessment, with the use of various boring methods and the implications of curve numbers on stormwater calculations also coming under scrutiny.

Stormwater design responsibilities were debated, with attention given to how professional engineers can navigate calculations to meet regulatory thresholds. The committee underscored the need for intelligent stormwater pond locations, debating the merits of placement at the lowest property spot versus the edge. Groundwater modeling was mentioned as a potential tool for determining optimal pond placement.

The committee also focused on redevelopment standards and their effects on stormwater management. The balance between cost-effectiveness and environmental impact was a highlight, as members pondered the merits of piping water offsite versus regrading properties to manage water flow. Underground storage for stormwater management in urbanized areas was discussed, with the committee considering incentives for property owners to adopt such measures.

Incentivizing underground stormwater storage in residential or commercial areas was proposed, with the committee evaluating the environmental impacts and the role of green space in urban areas. Past projects like Andy Romano Park and New Smyrna Beach City Hall parking lot were cited as examples of successful underground storage implementations.

A motion was passed to direct staff to develop language for a rule change related to geotechnical boring standards and the establishment of seasonal high groundwater tables. Other motions approved included verifying curve numbers for soil types with multiple hydrologic conditions and evaluating conditions for tailwater elevation coordination.

Finally, the committee discussed developing a rule for the proper location of stormwater ponds to avoid conflicts with new water management district rules. A detailed presentation on the current work plan for stormwater projects highlighted the county’s efforts to update studies to address flooding and water quality issues, emphasizing collaboration with cities.

Routine maintenance of storm-prone areas was mentioned, with a focus on the need for public reporting of blockages. The enforcement of federal rules on compensating storage in floodplains and the acquisition of properties for flood mitigation were also discussed. The committee concluded the meeting by proposing topics for the next agenda, including reclaimed water and irrigation regulations and a discussion on trees, with the reappointment of committee members also considered.