Residents of Mount Dora expressed urgent concerns regarding rising water levels in the Lake of the Woods area during a recent government meeting. Ashley Mazer, a local homeowner, reported that since 2018, water levels have consistently risen, causing significant property loss and access issues for her and her neighbor. Mazer highlighted the financial burden of attempting to manage the flooding, having spent approximately $30,000 on commercial pumping efforts that only provided temporary relief.

The engineering director, Jeff Earhart, acknowledged the challenges posed by the area's landlocked water and flat groundwater contours, which prevent effective drainage. He noted that the rising water levels are linked to several factors, including potential contributions from nearby nurseries and natural springs that have intensified their flow.

In response to the community's plight, the city is initiating a comprehensive study to investigate the water levels and flooding issues in the Lake of the Woods and Wolf Branch Sink areas. This study, estimated to cost around $1.24 million, aims to analyze both surface and groundwater conditions to identify the causes of the flooding and develop long-term solutions.

The meeting also touched on previous flooding incidents and the potential for future FEMA assistance, as officials await a response regarding a grant application. The discussions underscored the need for immediate action and collaboration between residents and local authorities to address the ongoing water management crisis in the region.