The Planning and Development Board Meeting held on May 23, 2023, in Hollywood City, Broward County, focused on community concerns regarding local flooding and development issues, particularly affecting residents near the golf course.
The meeting began with a resident expressing significant concerns about flooding in the Emerald Hills area. The speaker highlighted the challenges faced during heavy rains and hurricanes, emphasizing that the situation has worsened over the years. They noted that insurance companies are increasingly reluctant to provide flood insurance for homes built at certain elevations, raising alarms about the potential for homes to become uninsurable. The resident urged the board to conduct more studies and collaborate with the Department of Transportation (DOT) to address drainage issues effectively.
Following this, another resident, Daniel Carton, introduced himself and shared his long-standing connection to the Emerald Hills community, having lived there since 1972. He expressed support for ongoing development efforts, stating that the proposed plans would greatly benefit the community and its residents. Carton reminisced about his childhood experiences at the local golf course, underscoring the importance of the area to the community's identity.
The discussions highlighted the urgent need for addressing flooding concerns while balancing development interests in the community. The board's next steps will likely involve further investigation into the drainage issues raised by residents and consideration of the proposed developments that aim to enhance community welfare.