Sarasota County Commissioners are set to vote Tuesday on a $10 million investment aimed at overhauling the county’s aging stormwater infrastructure—a move spurred by the flooding impacts of last year’s hurricanes.

For many residents, the vote can’t come soon enough. Some say they fear flooding every time it rains, and claim years have gone by without meaningful maintenance.

Areas like Phillippi Creek were hit repeatedly last year, and neighbors say the situation has only worsened due to years of sediment buildup and debris clogging the waterway.

“It shouldn’t take this much public advocacy to right a wrong,” said Kristy Molyneaux, who lives along the creek. “Phillippi Creek has been neglected for years.”

Frustrations came to a head at a recent county meeting, where homeowners voiced concerns over both flooding and lack of accountability.

“I’ve got to ask—where do we go from here?” said Connie Neely. “It’s not just a flood problem anymore. It’s a trust problem.”

In response, county leaders are considering the $10 million package to repair, restore, and maintain critical parts of the stormwater system. The urgency increased after the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers denied the county’s emergency permit request, citing the scale of the work needed.

Officials say last year’s storms exposed deep vulnerabilities, prompting a push for faster, long-term solutions.

As part of that effort, the county is forming a dedicated stormwater department. On Monday, officials named Ben Quartermaine as its new director. He’s scheduled to start August 11.

“We work for the citizens, and the message has been clear,” said County Commissioner Tom Knight. “We need to begin restoring public trust, and this is the first step.”

The vote will take place at 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday, July 8, at the Sarasota County Administration building in Venice. A public hearing will be held during the meeting to allow residents to weigh in.

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(Image credit: Sarasota Observer)

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