Residents of Zephyrhills are preparing to take legal action against their county, alleging mismanagement of water resources and development that has led to significant property damage. Robert Woods, a local property owner, claims he has suffered nearly $60,000 in flood-related damages and believes the county’s water management practices are directly responsible.

Woods points to a series of flooding events, including a major incident in July and subsequent water pumping onto his 10-acre property in August. He argues that approximately 50 residents have experienced similar problems, primarily stemming from county water pumping practices and new development near a local golf course.

The situation highlights concerns about uneven land development, with new housing and tennis courts built at higher elevations while surrounding properties remain vulnerable to flooding. Woods criticized the county’s approach, quoting a county official who seemingly admitted to “robbing Peter to pay Paul” in water management strategies.

Frustrated by the ongoing issues, Woods and his neighbors have attempted to find legal representation, with one resident reporting calls to nearly 20 lawyers. They argue that the current development and water management practices create an unfair burden on existing property owners.

“We’re not seeing careful integration of building, runoff management, and strategic pump placement,” Woods explained, expressing deep concern about the potential for future flash flooding during upcoming rain events.

The residents are united in their demand for accountability, seeking legal recourse to address what they view as systemic mismanagement of local water resources and development practices.

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(Image credit: Tampa Bay Times)