The request of staff of City Council is to conduct the second and final reading of Ordinance 2018-2146 granting a 50’ drainage easement to Pasco County.

On June 7, 2018 Pasco County staff met with New Port Richey Public Works staff requesting the City grant Pasco County a 50’ drainage easement along the eastern property line of the Grey Preserve south of Plathe Road.  The existing drainage easement is 15’ wide and contains an eight and a half (8.5’) foot deep ditch constructed at a 1:1 sloop. In addition, the 1:1 sloop is susceptible to frequent bank erosion which can hinder the volume and velocity of stormwater flow during storm events driving downstream from the East Berry Gardens sub-division to the north and a portion of the City Limits to the west adjacent to the Harbor View Mobile Home Park.

Staff has reviewed the request and has determined this type of easement conveyance is warranted.  The granting of a larger drainage easement will allow the County to enlarge the existing ditch which will benefit the County and the City by reducing the frequency of flooding in the surrounding areas.  It will also allow the County to construct a ditch with banks at 4:1 slope.  This grade is easier for maintenance personnel to maintain.