Lakewood Ranch residents urge swift action on flood mitigation projects

Concerns over erosion and flooding dominated the recent Manatee County government meeting, as residents voiced urgent calls for action to protect their properties and communities.

One resident passionately highlighted the alarming erosion affecting local waterways, stating, "We're losing our manatees," and urged officials to implement protective measures like riprap to prevent further damage. He recounted how the width of the waterway has increased dramatically since the property was purchased in 1976, emphasizing the need for immediate intervention to safeguard the area from further erosion.

Another resident, Valerie Stafford Malice, shared her personal experience with flooding in her Lakewood Ranch home, which has faced water intrusion multiple times over the years. She questioned the allocation of significant funds for unmet needs and mitigation efforts, specifically advocating for the River Club Boulevard Bridge project over the Braden River. "What is it going to take to get that added to the list that actually gets done?" she asked, stressing the urgency of addressing these issues before the next hurricane season.

Betsy Banak, a former commissioner, echoed the sentiments of her fellow residents, acknowledging the long-standing nature of these concerns and the need for effective solutions.

The meeting underscored a growing frustration among residents regarding the pace of government action on critical infrastructure projects. As the community grapples with the impacts of erosion and flooding, the call for swift and decisive action has never been more urgent.