Residents of Shannon Road voiced significant concerns during a recent government meeting regarding a proposed new home construction that could exacerbate existing flooding issues in their neighborhood. The project, presented by Phillip Ross of Flynn Building Specialists, has drawn opposition from local residents who fear that the addition of another house will worsen drainage problems that have already led to severe flooding in the area.
James Neely, a resident near the proposed site, highlighted that the current drainage system is inadequate, stating that the road already floods during rainstorms. He expressed worries that the new construction would further impede water flow, leading to increased flooding in their homes. Diane Dawson echoed these concerns, recalling previous issues with drainage caused by another house built by Flynn, which had resulted in flooding in neighboring yards.
Clark Dawson raised a critical question about the necessity of the construction, noting that the building is already underway despite the ongoing drainage issues. He criticized the removal of trees that previously helped mitigate noise and flooding, emphasizing the negative impact on their quality of life.
Commissioner Eddington, who represents the district, confirmed that the last heavy rain resulted in significant flooding throughout the neighborhood, with water levels exceeding a foot in some areas. He expressed skepticism about approving the new construction without addressing the drainage problems first, noting that previous attempts to improve drainage had not been effective.
The discussion also touched on the zoning implications of the property. Sean, a county representative, explained that the land is currently zoned for commercial use, which could allow for a business to be established if the residential project is denied. This raised the question of whether residents would prefer a house or a commercial enterprise in their neighborhood.
The meeting underscored the tension between development rights and community concerns, as residents seek solutions to their flooding issues while navigating the complexities of local zoning laws. The outcome of this discussion remains to be seen as officials consider the implications of the proposed construction amidst the pressing drainage concerns.