Drainage Board approves $58M project to address flooding in Eaton County

The Eaton County Board of Commissioners convened on April 16, 2025, to discuss significant drainage issues affecting local residents, particularly concerning the maintenance and improvement of established drains. The meeting focused on the procedural aspects of initiating projects within drainage districts, emphasizing the importance of community involvement and the statutory requirements for moving forward.

The discussion began with a request for clarification on the process for establishing a drainage project, particularly in light of the recent concerns raised by residents about flooding. The Drain Commissioner explained that for an established drain, a petition must be signed by five property owners or one municipality to initiate the process. However, due to a recent consolidation of the bank drain, the threshold for petitions was raised to 50 signatures. This change aims to streamline the management of inter-county drains.

The Drain Commissioner detailed the two-step process required for inter-county drains, which includes a "hearing of practicability" to assess whether it is worth investing in engineering studies. Despite low attendance at public meetings, residents expressed significant concerns about ongoing flooding and its impact on property sales. The Drainage Board unanimously voted to proceed with the project, acknowledging the necessity of addressing these issues.

The estimated cost for the proposed drainage improvements is between $40 million and $70 million, with discussions around funding options, including potential grants and loans. The board highlighted efforts to reduce costs through innovative solutions, such as property acquisition for detention purposes.

Commissioners voiced their support for the project, albeit with reservations about the financial implications for constituents. Some expressed frustration over the perceived lack of communication from the Drain Commissioner, emphasizing the need for accountability and transparency in addressing residents' concerns.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the urgency of addressing drainage issues in Eaton County, with the board committed to moving forward despite the challenges posed by funding and community expectations. The next steps will involve further engineering assessments and continued engagement with residents to ensure their voices are heard in the process.