Edgewater’s charm has long rested on its proximity to the Indian River and its lush, low-lying neighborhoods—but for many residents, that same geography has become a source of dread. After yet another season of torrential rains and surging tides, frustration is boiling over. Flooding has become a regular disruption, damaging homes, snarling traffic, and threatening the city’s economic and environmental stability.
That sentiment is echoed across Edgewater, where residents are demanding bold action. The city’s stormwater infrastructure—much of it decades old—is struggling to keep pace with intensifying weather patterns and rising groundwater levels. Local businesses, especially those near the waterfront, report mounting losses from closures and cleanup. Some families have begun exploring relocation options, fearing that the next flood could be catastrophic.
At the center of the debate is Mayor David Depew, who is seeking a second term in office. Depew’s first campaign in 2021 focused on revitalization, economic growth, and community engagement. But as the climate crisis hits closer to home, voters are asking whether he can pivot from promise-maker to problem-solver.
“We’re not just talking about puddles anymore,” Depew said during a recent town hall. “We’re talking about protecting homes, livelihoods, and the future of Edgewater. If re-elected, I will prioritize a comprehensive flood mitigation strategy that includes drainage upgrades, green infrastructure, and state-level partnerships.”
The proposed strategy includes:
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Modernizing the city’s stormwater systems with smart sensors and expanded retention basins.
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Restoring wetlands and implementing permeable pavement in flood-prone zones.
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Collaborating with Volusia County and state agencies to secure funding for long-term resilience projects.
But critics say the mayor’s first term lacked urgency. “We’ve heard promises before,” said Jordan Ellis, founder of the Edgewater Resilience Coalition. “What we need now is a leader who treats flooding like the emergency it is—not a line item in a future budget.”
Ellis and other activists are pushing for a citizen-led oversight committee to monitor flood response efforts and ensure transparency. They’re also advocating for emergency relief funds for affected households and small businesses.
As the 2026 election season heats up, the stakes are high. Edgewater’s future may depend on whether voters believe Depew can deliver—or whether it’s time for new leadership to stem the tide and reshape the landscape.
For now, the city waits, waterlogged and wary.
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