John Bull drainage study funded; commissioners discuss grants and a $500,000 annual stormwater program

Flagler Beach — The commission reviewed a stormwater capital plan item for the John Bull drainage area and discussed how the city can use reserves and grant funding to accelerate work in flood‑prone neighborhoods.

Staff described a $12,000 allocation for preliminary design work in the John Bull area (the neighborhood between South Daytona and John Bull Road in the 2700 block) and said the work is being done with Mead & Hunt. Commissioners asked whether a project can be constructed this year; staff said they will pursue grants and other funding but cautioned that design must be complete first.

The capital plan also lists a $500,000 annual stormwater improvements line intended for smaller, “low‑hanging fruit” projects and to implement recommendations from the McKimmon Creek Phase 2 stormwater plan. Commissioners discussed using existing stormwater reserves to augment the annual allocation and to use the money as matching funds to leverage grant opportunities.

Staff clarified that certain stormwater reserves are earmarked exclusively for stormwater and can be used to implement studies’ findings. The commission directed staff to continue applying for grants and to prioritize work in the most flood‑impacted blocks, including possible implementation of driveway aprons and conveyance work in the 2700 block.

No formal action was recorded; staff will return with grant updates and refined project lists.