City Commission reviews stormwater master plan with engineers McKim and Creed

The City of Flagler Beach held a workshop and regular commission meeting on July 10, 2025, focusing on the ongoing development of a stormwater master plan. The meeting featured a presentation by professional engineers who provided an overview of the project’s goals, recommendations, and implementation strategies.

The primary objective of the meeting was to discuss the second phase of the stormwater master plan, which aims to address the city's flood management challenges. The engineers highlighted the need for a comprehensive approach to improve stormwater infrastructure, emphasizing the importance of public engagement and transparency in the planning process. They presented a scoring system used to prioritize 23 recommended projects out of 75 conceptual ideas, with a total estimated cost of $41 million.

Key discussions included the necessity of securing external funding sources, as the city currently lacks a robust revenue stream for stormwater management. The engineers noted that many grant programs require matching funds, which the city must prepare to provide. They also stressed the importance of annual reviews and updates to the master plan to ensure its relevance and effectiveness.

Commissioners raised concerns about the feasibility of the proposed projects, particularly regarding the implementation of curbs and gutters in areas lacking existing drainage systems. The engineers assured them that all proposed solutions would include necessary infrastructure to manage stormwater effectively.

Public comments during the meeting reflected community concerns about the effectiveness of past stormwater management efforts and the financial implications of the proposed projects. Residents expressed a desire for transparency regarding the progress of previously identified low-cost solutions and the overall management of stormwater funds.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the city's commitment to improving its stormwater management system while acknowledging the significant financial and logistical challenges ahead. The commission plans to continue discussions on funding strategies and project prioritization in future meetings.