Residents of Woodmont Court voiced significant concerns regarding flooding issues during a recent government meeting, highlighting the ongoing challenges posed by heavy rainfall in the area. Thomas Bucklew, a local resident, presented evidence of severe flooding events, including a notable incident in 2015 and recent rainfall totals that reached 11.5 inches in October. He emphasized that the existing floodplain absorbs rainfall, but increased development could exacerbate runoff problems, particularly affecting nearby Terra Plantation and Little Bear Creek.
Bucklew's remarks were supported by visual aids, including engineers' drawings that illustrated the floodplain's capacity and the anticipated impact of proposed developments. He warned that elevating and covering more than 42% of the property could lead to increased flooding, contradicting assurances from developers about adequate retention measures.
George Dotson, a council member with six years of experience, echoed Bucklew's concerns, noting that previous proposals for development in the area had been rejected primarily due to drainage issues. Dotson criticized the adequacy of the proposed retention plans, referencing a history of high-density development that had previously strained the city's drainage systems.
The discussions reflect a growing apprehension among residents about the implications of new developments on local flooding, underscoring the need for careful consideration of environmental impacts in urban planning decisions.