During a recent government meeting, officials addressed ongoing flooding issues affecting residents in Timber Creek and Red Robin Drive, highlighting the complexities of private property disputes and local regulations.

The discussion began with concerns raised about a property on Tree Line Drive, where improper drainage modifications by a homeowner have led to water runoff affecting neighboring properties. Officials confirmed that a permit was required for the changes made by the homeowner, and they committed to investigating the status of this permit to determine if corrective actions had been taken.

The conversation then shifted to a more complicated situation on Red Robin Drive, where a homeowner had covered a culvert with a metal plate, obstructing water flow and causing flooding for four other homes. Officials noted that because this is a private road, the county has limited authority to intervene. They indicated that the homeowners' association (HOA) lacks the necessary jurisdiction to enforce maintenance or improvements, complicating the resolution of the flooding issue.

County staff had previously met with the property owner to discuss potential excavation work to alleviate the flooding, but concerns about underground utilities limited their options. Officials emphasized that the main drainage ditch leading to Tomoka Farms Road is overgrown and requires maintenance, which the homeowners would need to undertake themselves.

The meeting underscored the challenges faced by residents in navigating property rights and local regulations. Officials advised that homeowners may need to seek legal recourse to resolve disputes, as the county cannot enforce compliance in private matters. The discussion concluded with a reminder for residents to be cautious of potential environmental regulations from the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) when considering any maintenance actions on their properties.