Volusia County, FL — September 9, 2025
As heavy rains continue to flood streets and neighborhoods across Volusia County, residents are raising serious concerns about the effectiveness of stormwater infrastructure projects. From Daytona Beach to Edgewater, standing water has become a familiar—and frustrating—sight. Now, with the 2026 midterm elections approaching, voters are demanding accountability from local and state leaders.
🚨 Drainage Systems Under Scrutiny
Despite millions in funding and years of planning, many residents say the storm drains simply aren’t working. “Every time it rains, our street turns into a river,” said DeLand resident Marcus Hill. “We were told these projects would fix the problem. So where’s the proof?”
The county’s 2025 Integrated Floodplain Management Plan outlines dozens of mitigation strategies, including embankment armoring, culvert replacements, and baffle box installations. But recent flooding has left many questioning whether those efforts are delivering results.
🗣️ Residents Demand Transparency
At a February 2025 council meeting, Volusia County leaders advanced several floodwater proposals, including stricter soil testing and revised pond placement requirements. While officials say these changes will improve long-term resilience, residents want immediate answers.
“We need to see data, not just promises,” said Port Orange homeowner Carla Jenkins. “If candidates want our vote next year, they need to show us these projects are working.”
🏛️ Political Pressure Builds Ahead of 2026
With the midterms less than a year away, stormwater management is becoming a central issue in local campaigns. Candidates are being pressed to explain their positions on infrastructure funding, development oversight, and climate adaptation.
Some challengers are calling for independent audits of county drainage systems, while incumbents point to ongoing maintenance efforts like ditch clearing and pipe replacements. The debate is heating up—and voters are watching closely.
🔍 What’s Next?
Volusia County’s Public Works Department continues to update residents on stormwater maintenance, including recent repairs in Ormond-by-the-Sea and DeLand. But for many, the question remains: will these fixes hold up when the next storm hits?
As the skies darken and the political season brightens, one thing is clear—Florida’s flood fight is far from over.
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