Homeowners urge Bellbrook City Council to address stormwater runoff flooding issues

Residents of East Walnut Street voiced urgent concerns about persistent flooding issues during the Bellbrook City Council meeting on April 14, 2025. Homeowners from 11 East Walnut and 107 East Walnut highlighted the severe damage caused by stormwater runoff from properties above them, which flows through Belv Rock Park and has resulted in significant property damage, including flooding of basements and garages.

The homeowners expressed gratitude for previous city efforts, such as the installation of a $94,000 drain, but emphasized that the flooding problem remains unresolved. They called for renewed collaboration between the city and the park district to address the ongoing water flow issues, particularly the need for debris removal and potential engineering solutions to manage stormwater more effectively.

Key proposals discussed included the installation of an alarm system to alert city officials of rising water levels and the exploration of a gate system to redirect floodwaters away from residential areas. The residents also suggested that the city investigate the impact of recent developments, specifically the nearby Landing neighborhood, which they believe has exacerbated flooding conditions.

City officials acknowledged the complexity of the situation and committed to revisiting engineering assessments to find viable solutions. The council's response indicated a willingness to collaborate with residents and the park district to mitigate future flooding risks.

As the community grapples with these challenges, residents are hopeful for timely action from city leaders to protect their homes from recurring flood damage.