In a recent meeting, the Board of County Commissioners discussed a waiver request concerning floodplain cut and fill balance requirements for a property located at 8550 Jungle Trail. The request, presented by Acting Public Works Director Kirsten Leinecker, aims to facilitate the construction of a new residence and associated structures on a 3.67-acre site, which is situated in a flood-prone area.

The property owner, Catherine Fisher, along with her engineering team from Coastal Waterways, is seeking to waive the cut and fill balance requirements mandated by the County Land Development Regulation. The proposed development includes a 3,750 square foot residence, a 2,400 square foot garage, a 2,400 square foot workshop, and extensive driveway space. The site is divided between two special flood hazard areas, with base flood elevations of 6 and 7 feet for the 100-year flood event.

Leinecker explained that the applicant's engineering studies indicate that the flood elevation could rise by 0.12 to 0.30 feet due to the proposed development. The waiver request is crucial as it would allow the filling of approximately 6.59 acre-feet for the 100-year flood event and 2.7 acre-feet for the 10-year flood event, which together account for a significant portion of the available floodplain storage.

The board was informed that the natural ground elevation of the site is low, posing challenges for development without raising the land significantly. The proposed design aims to avoid filling any wetlands connected to the Captain Forrester Hammock Preserve, which is a key environmental consideration. The board also discussed potential impacts on neighboring properties and the historic designation of Jungle Trail, which could affect construction logistics.

Commissioners raised concerns about the implications of granting the waiver, particularly regarding the county's standing in the FEMA floodplain guidelines. The county is currently undergoing an audit that could affect flood insurance rates for residents. The board noted that previous waivers had been granted, and the potential impact on the county's rating system was a significant factor in their deliberations.

Ultimately, staff recommended that the board consider granting the waiver, contingent upon the applicant meeting all stormwater management and flood protection requirements. The board is expected to make a decision on the waiver request in the coming weeks, weighing the benefits of the proposed development against the potential risks to flood management and environmental integrity.