City Commission Updated on FDEP Project Grand

By: Shelia Mader

City commissioners received an update during their regular meeting regarding the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) Wastewater Treatment Facility (WWTF) Resilience Project and the need to extend the grant agreement through June 30, 2027, to allow time to complete all project components and required reporting. The project is part of the state’s Resilient Florida Program, which funds studies and improvements aimed at identifying infrastructure vulnerable to extreme storm events and developing plans to strengthen those systems. Consultant Christopher Allen of Dewberry Engineering explained that the work includes a comprehensive vulnerability assessment that inventories critical city assets and models storm and flooding scenarios to determine which areas face the greatest risk.

 Commissioner Rick Pettis said he had reviewed the report and would provide written comments, noting he did not see a planned large stormwater pond in the southeast part of the city reflected on the maps. It was also pointed out several roads with known flooding issues, including Sunset Drive, Sunset Circle and the McCrary Hall area, that he felt should be highlighted. Pettis suggested the flooding models should clearly identify drainage paths so residents can better understand why certain areas appear vulnerable. Allen welcomed the feedback, saying the information will help refine the final report submitted to FDEP.

The Commission thanked him for the update.