During a recent government meeting, community members raised significant concerns regarding a proposed development in Sherwood, Florida, highlighting issues related to flooding, inadequate drainage, and the potential impact on local neighborhoods.

Residents expressed alarm over the area's floodplain status, noting that recent heavy rains have exacerbated flooding problems, particularly in older communities adjacent to new developments. One speaker pointed out that the construction practices of new developers, who elevate their projects, leave older homes vulnerable to flooding without the ability to raise their own properties in compliance with local ordinances.

Heidi Peterson, a long-time resident, emphasized the dangers of building on wetlands and low-lying areas, warning that water must go somewhere when wetlands are filled. She urged officials to consider the implications of the St. Johns River's overflow on local drainage systems, arguing that the proposed development would worsen existing flooding issues.

Another resident, Faith Swanson, outlined three primary objections to the development: insufficient stormwater management, inadequate buffer zones, and the potential destruction of the neighborhood's character. She criticized the developer's plans for drainage, asserting that they would lead to increased runoff and flooding in surrounding areas, particularly along North Carpenter Road.

The meeting underscored a broader concern among residents about the integrity of local governance and the need for responsible development that prioritizes public health and safety. Community members called for a postponement of the development proposal, urging commissioners to consider the long-term impacts on their neighborhoods and the environment.

As discussions continue, the fate of the Sherwood development remains uncertain, with residents advocating for a thorough review of the potential consequences before any decisions are made.