Agenda - Public Works Committee - 08/20/2024

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Alison Bollman, 5731 145th Court, appreciated the changes that were made to the structure noting that her yard has almost completely cleared the standing water. She commented on the sunken yard that remains and noted that she is having estimates completed for the repair that would be necessary. Carissa Hoyt, 5741 145th Court NW, agreed that the standing water has receded. She commented that some properties where the water has receded have wildlife that have come into the yard because of the flooded conditions. She expressed concern with a lack of communication during the project, and prior to that. She believed the City could have done a better j ob explaining what would be done and the reason for the project, along with updates during the project. She stated that there are other residents that have been impacted that have not been able to, or may not have wanted to, attend the meeting. Chairperson Musgrove asked if Ms. Hoyt has been receiving responses to her emails. Ms. Hoyt commented that she did reach out to staff one year ago to find out more information about the project. She commented that most recently she has received responses from the Council, when she has emailed, but stated that there has been a slower response from staff. She stated that perhaps more research could have been done prior to the project. Ms. Hopkins asked if the other residents have lived on water before. Mr. McBroom commented that there were multiple feet of standing water. He commented that it was the combination of the project and the increased rainfall that caused the issue and damaged the properties. He did not disagree that there is a happy medium somewhere, but it was not right to have that type of sway. He commented that the presentation stated that an error was made, and the level was raised eight inches too high, and it seems that they are correcting the issue. He stated that he still has puddles, which he expects in the rainy season, but the standing water has receded. Ms. Hopkins acknowledged that people will not be happy in the high or low levels, but they will have to find something they can agree with. Councilmember Olson agreed that it makes sense to wait some time to let things settle so they know where they will land before they make additional adjustments. He agreed that staff should continue to work with the DNR to find the happy medium, but did not believe that any further adjustments should be made at this time, and they should let it settle. Councilmember Howell agreed that it would seem reasonable to let things settle. She agreed that staff should work with the DNR to determine what would be possible if further adjustment is needed. Chairperson Musgrove acknowledged that there has been a bounce in the water level over the years and appreciated that staff did the work to continue checking and realize that an error was made, and then making that adjustment. She stated that there has been positive movement since the adjustment was made, which has been helpful for the residents. She suggested that staff continue Public Works Committee/July 16, 2024 Page 4 of 8