Residents tell council recent water‑ and gas‑line work left lawns, driveways and sidewalks damaged

Several residents raised concerns at the May 20 council meeting about damage left by recent utility and contractor work.

Bridal Garza, who said she lives on Lafayette Boulevard, told council that the water replacement project last year left holes and torn grass and that repeated requests for repairs have gone unanswered. "I gave him pictures of what was damaged and how my grass looked, and he said that they would get back to me, and I haven't heard anything," Garza said.

Holly Sturgeon of the 1500 block of Stewart said heavy equipment used during a DTE gas‑line project and related crews removed and graded turf and left as much as a four‑inch difference between her repaired lawn and adjacent yards. She said efforts to reach city staff, including the Department of Public Works, had not produced a repair schedule. "I was given the number of Susan over at the DPW. She never returned my call," Sturgeon said.

David Sturgeon raised safety concerns at Gregory Park, citing people he described as drug users near park structures, and he reported ongoing mud and debris from a recycling operation spilling onto neighboring streets.

DPS Director John Kazzu told the meeting he would speak with the residents after the meeting and collect information to help resolve those issues. "You can speak with Mister Kazzu after the meeting and give him your information and he can help you get this resolved," the mayor said on the dais.

Why it matters: Damage to private property and public sidewalks after municipal or utility work can create safety hazards and financial burdens for homeowners. Residents asked for clearer points of contact and timely follow-up from city departments and contractors.

What residents can expect: Staff said they will follow up with the residents and that DPS will examine the reported damage and coordinate repairs or contractor remediation where appropriate.