Change happens when residents show up — informed and persistent. Here's how you can help.
Know Your Rights: Section 110-311
Sarasota County's Section 110-311 (Article IX) explicitly requires the county to maintain stormwater "conveyance systems." This isn't a request — it's an obligation written into the county code since 1994. Any resident on any waterway in the county can cite this ordinance when advocating for maintenance.
This isn't just a Phillippi Creek issue. If your creek, canal, or drainage system isn't being maintained, Section 110-311 applies to you too.
Attend Meetings
The county pays attention when residents are present and prepared. Key meetings include:
- Board of County Commissioners (BCC) — Regular meetings where budget and project decisions are made
- SEUAC (Stormwater Environmental Utility Advisory Committee) — Focused on stormwater policy and priorities. This is another important venue for residents to weigh in on how stormwater funds are spent.
- Budget Hearings — Annual opportunity to comment on stormwater funding
Join the Phillippi Creek Coalition
The PCC holds Thursday Zoom meetings at 9:00 AM (recurring weekly). These are open to anyone who wants to stay informed, contribute research, or coordinate advocacy efforts.
Email: info@justdredge.org to get the Zoom link and stay in the loop.
Contact Your Commissioner
Your district commissioner represents your interests. Let them know:
- You're aware of Section 110-311 and the county's maintenance obligations
- You're watching the dredging project and expect the full scope to be completed
- You want transparency on stormwater spending
Document Conditions
Photos and videos of flooding, sediment buildup, and drainage problems are valuable evidence. When you document issues:
- Note the date, time, and location
- Take photos before, during, and after rain events
- Share with the Coalition
Spread the Word
- Share this website with neighbors
- Talk to your HOA or neighborhood association
- Post on community social media groups
- Bring the Section 110-311 reference to your next HOA meeting
File Public Records Requests
You have the right to see county communications, contracts, and spending reports. Florida's public records laws are strong — use them. Sunshine requests can be filed through the county's public records portal.
For Residents on Other Waterways
If you live on a creek, canal, or drainage system anywhere in Sarasota County, the same ordinance language protects you. Section 110-311 doesn't mention Phillippi Creek specifically — it covers all stormwater conveyance systems.
The approach is the same: cite the ordinance, document conditions, attend meetings, and connect with neighbors. You don't need permission to hold your government accountable. You just need the receipts.
Contact the Coalition
Have information, questions, or want to volunteer?
Email: info@justdredge.org
We're residents just like you, working to make sure our community gets the infrastructure we've been paying for.