Ben Quartermaine has been appointed as the director of the newly formed Stormwater Department in Sarasota County. This decision follows a recent investigation revealing significant mismanagement ahead of severe flooding from Tropical Storm Debby.
In a heated budget workshop, county leaders voted to establish this separate stormwater department, previously part of Public Works, in response to public outcry for accountability. Residents expressed frustration during the meeting, calling out the Public Works Director and County Administrator for years of neglect in managing stormwater issues.
Quartermaine is set to begin his role on August 11, pending the completion of standard pre-employment procedures. County officials view his appointment as a crucial step in improving stormwater management within the county.
“Ben’s deep technical knowledge, passion for water resource conservation and proven leadership make him the ideal person to head our stormwater efforts,” stated County Administrator Jonathan Lewis. “We are confident his expertise and leadership will prepare us for the future.”
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Having previously worked in stormwater operations for Sarasota County, Quartermaine brings a wealth of experience, with almost 30 years in civil design and stormwater infrastructure across Florida. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from the University of Central Florida and has led various sustainability projects as a Senior Project Manager at Stantec.
In his new position, Quartermaine will oversee the development and implementation of comprehensive flood mitigation strategies, as well as lead infrastructure planning and maintenance.
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Key Information
- New Role: Ben Quartermaine appointed as Director of Stormwater Department.
- Date of Start: August 11, pending pre-employment processes.
- Background: Nearly 30 years of experience in civil design and stormwater infrastructure.
- Education: Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from the University of Central Florida.
- Responsibilities: Develop flood mitigation strategies, lead infrastructure planning, and manage maintenance.
- Significance: Creation of a separate stormwater department for improved stormwater management following public criticism and a recent investigation.
Article original publish date: 2025-07-07 07:00:00
Article source: www.wgcu.org
Read the full story at the original source: www.wgcu.org
