Residents of Port Orange voiced their frustrations during a recent city council meeting, highlighting ongoing issues with flooding and inadequate city response to storm preparedness. Many speakers recounted personal experiences of severe flooding, with some homes inundated multiple times in just two years.

One resident from North Brighton Drive expressed anger over the lack of city action, stating that despite repeated attempts to communicate with city officials, including letters and online submissions, there had been no response. She criticized the city for not providing essential resources like sandbags during storms, claiming that city workers were unproductive and dismissive while residents struggled to protect their homes.

Another speaker, Kirk Barnes, raised concerns about the city's long-standing knowledge of drainage issues, particularly regarding the Nova Canal, which exacerbates flooding in his area. He questioned the lack of action on proposed solutions and demanded a timeline for when improvements would be made, expressing skepticism about the city's commitment to resolving these issues.

John Atencio, a fourth-generation resident, described the deteriorating condition of a crucial bridge that hampers drainage in his neighborhood. He recounted how flooding had never affected his home until recent storms, emphasizing the urgent need for infrastructure repairs to prevent future disasters.

Robert Williams shared his experience with flooding following the construction of new buildings that he claimed were not up to code. He criticized the city for allowing developments that worsen drainage problems, suggesting negligence on the part of city officials in overseeing construction permits.

The meeting underscored a growing frustration among residents regarding the city's handling of flooding and infrastructure issues. Many called for accountability and immediate action to address the longstanding problems that threaten their homes and safety.