Fort Pierce residents urge action after developer clears buffer, reports flooding and trespassing

Residents from the High Point community told the City of Fort Pierce commission on March 9 that clearing at a nearby development has removed a long‑standing buffer, altered drainage, and created safety and property‑value concerns.

"The barrier that once separated High Point from the now developing land has been removed," said Karen Manista, who identified herself as president of a residents' board in Savannah Lakes, describing pooled water near residents' air‑conditioning units and a cleared fence line that now allows people to access the community. Other speakers described flooding that has reached lawns, persistent construction noise starting early in the morning, and reports of break‑ins.

Commissioners and staff said the complaints raise potential permit and drainage issues. Commissioner discussion cited development commitments made at planning board approval — including on‑site stormwater storage, berms and a retaining wall — and noted reports that some work began without proper permits. City staff and commissioners identified multiple enforcement and review roles to be involved, including planning, engineering, building, code enforcement and the police department.

City Manager Mr. Chess told the commission he would prepare a written report and convene department heads for an on‑site review. "I'll prepare a report for the five of you," he said, asking staff to investigate and return with findings. Commissioners also asked staff to require the developer to appear at the next commission meeting so residents can hear the company's explanation and the city can outline any required corrective steps.

The Commission did not take a formal legislative or enforcement vote in the meeting; instead it directed staff to investigate alleged permit violations, assess whether the developer met the drainage and berm conditions imposed at approval, and report back to the commission. The city also asked the police department to monitor trespassing complaints.

The next procedural step—staff's investigation and a developer appearance at the following meeting—was set by commissioners during the discussion. The commission said it will consider enforcement or stop‑work orders if the investigation finds work performed without required permits or if approved drainage measures have not been installed as represented during approvals.