Minutes - Public Works Committee - 07/16/2024

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Deanna Hopkins, 14249 Junkite Street NW, stated that she is the first resident that the water from the creek flows to. She commented that no one has come to look at her property because she has not expressed concern directly to the City. She stated that her property is the lowest elevation around the pond and requested that staff come to review the elevation of her property compared to the pond. She asked if the ponds that the water would outflow to would be capable of handling the additional waterflow from this pond. City Engineer/Public Works Director Westby commented that staff has mentioned that they have spoken with Ms. Hopkins when they were out in that area. He asked the purpose of the stakes on the property. Ms. Hopkins commented that she was using the stakes to measure the depth of the water. City Engineer/Public Works Director Westby commented that they do not anticipate any issues downstream. He commented that he would be happy to visit with Ms. Hopkins on her property to further discuss her concerns. Ms. Hopkins suggested delaying action to lower the weir and letting the water level out for one year before making any changes. Theresa Moulzolf, 14260 Junkite Street, commented that she started working with the DNR in 1996 because a developer lowered the culvert lower than it should be. She was concerned that if the weir is lowered because of complaints of some residents, that could have a negative impact on the pond. She stated that the weir should have been installed many years ago to restore the water level. She expressed concern with the quality of the pond and increased vegetation if the water level is lowered. City Engineer/Public Works Director Westby reviewed information received today from the DNR on the outlet elevation history going back to 1991. He stated that the objective of the DNR is to restore the elevation to the pre-development level. Ms. Moulzolf asked why the City would continue to make changes, as this is one of the wettest years that has been experienced. She stated that part of the increased water in people’s yards is because of the high rain levels. Chairperson Musgrove asked how this year compares to other years for rain levels. City Engineer/Public Works Director Westby replied that this year is about four or five inches more precipitation than an average year. Chairperson Musgrove commented that the weir was cut by eight inches because it was too high. th Eric McBroom, 5771 145 Court, commented that the water level has reduced in his yard since the weir was opened, although still much wetter than the previous summer. He thanked staff for the update and for correcting the error that was made. Public Works Committee / July 16, 2024 Page 3 of 8