The idea is to have a master storm water facility, Darabi said. In addition to maximizing the amount of land that could be developed, the regional retention pond would benefit builders by relieving them of flood maintenance responsibilities and streamlining the permitting process. Costs would include creating and maintaining the facility. Jerry Scarborough of the Suwannee River Water Management District said the regional facility could be used as a neighborhood park with a pond. A storm water study said the Cannon Creek basin is projected for development that could benefit from a retention facility.
Flooding becomes a problem with development because paved land allows water to run off more quickly.
The water management district, county and city would have to work together to construct the facility. The water management district would purchase the land. At a meeting in February, Darabi said area developers and land owners were in favor of a regional system.