Residents raise flooding concerns at Southern Hills development meeting

During the Brooksville City Council meeting on June 2, 2025, residents raised significant concerns regarding flooding issues linked to local developments, particularly the Southern Hills area. Donna Moore, a long-time resident, voiced her frustrations about the water runoff affecting her neighborhood, which she described as being situated in a basin. She highlighted that while the developer of Southern Hills does not flood his own properties, the surrounding areas, including her community, suffer from excessive runoff during heavy rains.

Moore emphasized that the flooding impacts many elderly residents, causing water to accumulate on their patios and driveways, although it does not enter their homes. She expressed her worries about future developments, particularly the Powell Road project, questioning how much fill dirt would be used and how high the new construction would be. This raised concerns about the potential for increased flooding in her area, which is already vulnerable due to its elevation.

Additionally, Moore inquired about high watermark data and its implications for understanding flooding risks in the community. She referenced a study conducted by the Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) about ten years ago, indicating a need for updated information to better inform residents about their flood risks.

The discussions at the meeting underscored the ongoing challenges of managing water runoff in Brooksville, highlighting the need for careful planning and consideration of community impacts in future development projects. As the city moves forward, addressing these flooding concerns will be crucial for ensuring the safety and well-being of its residents.