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Resident says sidewalk work damaged retaining wall; council and staff pledge better Phase 2 outreach
Summary
A Columbia Falls resident said a recent sidewalk project damaged his retaining wall and left inadequate communication. City staff said Phase 2 of the downtown sidewalk plan will address drainage and that the city will expand outreach, including an open house and direct mailings to affected properties.
Steve Osborne of 134 First Avenue East told the Columbia Falls City Council the city's sidewalk improvements caused drainage problems that destroyed his yard retaining wall and that he has received little communication about the work.
"The flood it caused had destroyed my retaining wall, and my retaining wall is still destroyed," Osborne told the council during the public-comment period. He said he is fencing his yard to protect grandchildren and pets and warned that his fence could make later repairs harder if the city does not act before he installs it.
City officials acknowledged communication problems during Phase 1 of the downtown sidewalk work and told council members they are changing outreach for Phase 2. The city manager said engineers have been briefed, more one-on-one engagement is planned, mailers will be sent, and a public open house is scheduled; staff said Phase 2 is expected to affect more than 30–40 homes in the next two years as part of the 2021 transportation plan.
Councilors urged clearer notice to residents, door-knocking where needed, and detailed plans showing the expected impact on individual properties. The city also noted it will coordinate with property owners about temporary construction easements and driveway access to minimize disruptions.
