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Commission approves $10M stormwater funding, hires new director to lead recovery and mitigation
Summary
The commission approved a $10 million FY2025 budget amendment for stormwater infrastructure repairs and restoration and learned the county offered the stormwater director job to Ben Quartermaine. Board also adjusted priorities for stormwater projects and asked staff for public reporting on delays and project sequencing.
The Sarasota County Board approved budget amendment B2025‑56 on July 8 to appropriate $10 million for stormwater system infrastructure maintenance, repair and restoration.
Public Works Director Spencer Anderson told the board the funds will be applied to a prioritized list of stormwater repairs that includes Donna Bay (phases 2 and 3), Phillippi Creek projects, roadway flood mitigation projects and stormwater repair/rehabilitation programs. Anderson said some previously earmarked projects will be delayed rather than canceled and staff are exploring alternative fill sources and grant offsets.
County Administrator Jonathan reported the county offered and secured acceptance from Ben Quartermaine to become the new stormwater director. Quartermaine, a Sarasota resident with more than 30 years in stormwater practice, has accepted the offer and will give notice to his current employer before starting; the county expects him to begin a phased transition and to start preliminary analysis while finishing his notice period.
Commissioners asked staff to publish lists of delayed projects so residents know timing and priorities. Commissioner Mast requested a third‑party long‑range strategic plan and levels‑of‑service review; the board assigned staff to pursue both a near‑term operational review and a longer strategic study to guide investments and reuse of surtax proceeds.
The amendment and staffing updates passed unanimously. Staff said they would return with formal timelines and a report on project sequencing and potential grant opportunities to reduce general‑fund impacts.
