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Post-Helene cleanup: city to seek contract for stormwater detention pond debris removal and reports 100,000 cubic yards moved
Summary
City staff said bids were received for debris and obstruction removal needed at 11 city-managed stormwater detention ponds, reported more than 100,000 cubic yards of debris processed, and described stump-removal and yard-waste policy changes after Hurricane Helene.
City staff briefed the council on ongoing recovery from Hurricane Helene, reporting that contractors and city crews have processed more than 100,000 cubic yards of debris and that two temporary city debris sites have been closed after consolidation to contracted sites.
A resolution (2025-08) to authorize a contract for debris and obstruction removal related to repairs of public stormwater detention facilities will be on the upcoming council agenda. Staff said the city solicited bids, received at least seven or eight offers, and plans to present an award to the low bidder at the council meeting. The work targets 11 stormwater detention ponds the city is responsible for; crews have identified trees and large debris in those ponds that can disrupt water flow and require removal.
Public works staff also discussed stump-removal operations in Hammond Hills, where SCDOT crews are working on stump removal along Hamilton Drive and nearby streets. Staff said stump work will continue for several weeks because of the neighborhood’s density of downed trees.
Officials described changes to yard-waste collection after the storm: the city has a limited yard-waste operation that accepts only bagged debris or material in yard carts; piles left in yards will not be removed unless the material is bagged or placed in a yard cart. Staff said the council has not directed a permanent policy change and that the modified pickup approach remains in effect until normal operations can resume.
City staff also noted grinding operations and consolidation at larger sites (Riverside Boulevard/Buena Vista), and that two prior city consolidation sites (Fifth Street Bridge, Belvedere) are closed. Staff said they will return to council with the recommended contract award for stormwater-pond debris removal.
