Alderman urges city review of algae issues at Hyden Pond and Victoria Lake; asks stormwater utility to help fund treatment

An alderman told the Watertown Common Council he wants the city to reexamine algae and maintenance problems at Hyden Pond and Victoria Lake and consider using stormwater utility funds to help pay for treatment and long-term remediation.

The concern was raised during the meeting’s reports section by a council member who asked the Public Works Commission to revisit the issue sooner than previously scheduled. The alderman said property owners and a prior study identified a treatment need and estimated a $3,500 cost for at least one site.

“I’m bothered by the increased appearance of them,” the alderman said, referencing both ponds and noting that Victoria Lake’s condition has worsened. He said a property owner told him the treatment would cost about $3,500 and that only seven property owners are involved in contributing funds.

The alderman pointed out that the city’s stormwater utility generates about $1,200,000 in revenue and argued those funds could be used to address problems that affect runoff, flooding management and groundwater connections. He asked the Public Works chairman to relook at the issue and not defer action until next year; the minutes he cited had indicated a revisit date of 02/19/26.

Council discussion noted the ponds are within an area where state ownership and local agency roles overlap and that previous studies have examined the issue. The alderman who raised the matter urged the city to consider a mix of treatment and larger-scale solutions.

No formal motion or funding allocation was made at the meeting; the alderman asked the Public Works Commission to review the matter and report back. He emphasized both aesthetic and functional benefits of addressing the ponds and encouraged using stormwater utility resources if appropriate.