MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. (WFLA) — Manatee County residents are raising concerns over new developments in their area, as they continue to recover from the flooding caused by Hurricane Debby.
Drone footage from Anna Ritzenthaler’s property shows just how devastating the flooding has been in her neighborhood. Many residents are speaking out, demanding action to address the issues.
They blame new development.
“They are about to add 16 more houses, I wanted that stopped, figure out your water before you add any more,” Ritzenthaler said.
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The East Manatee Preservation Association held a forum in Parrish to discuss the impact of Debby’s flooding and the ongoing concerns about local development.
Residents said the area’s rapid growth is making the flooding worse, leaving their homes and farms vulnerable.
“I live off Golfcrest Road and I own a small farm. Our cow pasture had almost 4 feet of standing water in it,” Sara Evancho said.
Others, like Ritzenthaler, are worried about losing more than just property.