In a recent City Council meeting held on December 16, 2024, in Codington County, South Dakota, officials discussed critical flood management strategies, particularly focusing on the implications of a proposed alternative plan for managing water levels in Lake Compesca. The meeting highlighted the potential consequences of not utilizing the lake as a temporary water storage solution, which could lead to increased flooding risks for local structures.

Councilman Beeler emphasized the urgency of moving forward with flood management efforts, noting that the community has waited years for a comprehensive study on the issue. He expressed concern that delaying action could result in regrettable consequences for Watertown residents. The discussion revealed that if the lake is not used for temporary storage, it could flood 52 structures in the area, significantly altering the cost-benefit analysis of the proposed flood management plan.

The council also explored the regulatory requirements for any proposed changes to the waterways, indicating that coordination with FEMA and compliance with the Clean Water Act would be necessary. The conversation underscored the complexity of flood management, as officials considered various options, including widening the river and raising levees, to mitigate flooding risks.

A key point of contention was the potential impact of these changes on existing properties and the floodplain. While widening the river could theoretically decrease floodplain areas, the council acknowledged that any induced flooding on properties would need careful evaluation to avoid exacerbating the situation.

The meeting also touched on the importance of maintaining the sedimentation basin, which is expected to benefit Lake Compesca. Preliminary estimates suggested that maintaining this basin could incur costs of approximately $4 million every 15 years.

As the council deliberated on the next steps, it became clear that the community's flood management strategy hinges on a delicate balance between immediate action and long-term planning. The discussions highlighted the need for a formal letter of support from the city for any proposed plans to move forward, emphasizing the collaborative nature of flood management efforts.

In conclusion, the City Council's meeting underscored the pressing need for effective flood management solutions in Watertown. With potential flooding risks looming, the council's decisions in the coming months will be crucial in shaping the community's resilience against future flood events.