St. Lucie County commissioners voted 3-2 to reject a land-use change that could allow nearly 500 homes on roughly 34 acres near South 25th Street and West Midway Road. The decision came as commissioners questioned drainage at the low-lying property and residents sought action after recent flooding. County staff had recommended approving the change with adjustments to avoid or reduce impacts to wetlands and required buffers.
An engineer said the property receives drainage from about 134 acres and uses a 24-inch pipe to direct water to nearby canals. Another pipe might be needed. The site sits lower than surrounding roads and would need to be raised for development, prompting concerns that construction could push water onto neighboring properties. A residential designation could allow up to 15 homes per acre, according to the discussion.
At the same meeting, residents from Creekside and White City asked commissioners to investigate last week’s flooding, identify who is responsible for local drainage systems and explain how to prevent future flooding. Creekside residents called for an engineering review of their neighborhood and the surrounding watershed, a reassessment of flood risk and a mitigation plan with deadlines. They also requested a public meeting with county engineers and stormwater officials. “I love my community, but it’s not fair that we’re suffering because nobody has taken the initiative to do what’s right for us,” one resident said.
White City residents described recurring flooding and called for drainage improvements and more stormwater storage. One resident said her home and yard had flooded four times since 2012. The county also made its emergency declaration official after days of heavy rain and flooding. The declaration covers hazards including flooded roads and strained drainage systems.