Clearwater candidates press for stormwater, permitting and resilience investments after back-to-back storms

Candidates described ongoing recovery needs after back-to-back storms and urged the next council to prioritize stormwater upgrades and resilience projects.

Mark Bunker said some residents are still suffering and pressed for reservoirs and continued brush-clearing to keep drains flowing. He emphasized the need to help residents navigate federal aid and to protect police, fire and stormwater budgets.

Sam Wilson and Jared Leone pointed to successful recent grants and partnerships — including a $1.75 million grant cited in the forum — and stressed collaboration with state and federal partners. Leone noted his role in helping secure a grant as president of a neighborhood coalition; Wilson highlighted local recovery work and the importance of dunes and beach renourishment.

Bianca Lvala described neighborhood-level relief work she performed after the storms and urged that permitting and emergency services remain accessible so residents can return to safe homes quickly. Candidates also discussed the long-term idea of moving or replacing water-treatment facilities out of flood zones to preserve utility function during major storms.

While the forum did not resolve funding sources for large projects, candidates agreed resilience and permitting reform should be priorities for the incoming council.