Shelley Drive Residents Present Petition Saying Development Has Diverted Stormwater, Causing Yard Flooding

Residents of Shelley Drive presented a petition asking the city to address what they described as improper stormwater diversion connected to nearby development. Owen Larson said development behind the properties raised ground approximately four feet and that a creosote log retaining wall—built and approved during development—has caused water to flow into backyards, leading to standing water, silt buildup, soil erosion and potential foundation damage.

Larson said the problem has existed for years, that prior city follow-up led to an estimated repair cost he described as prohibitive (an earlier estimate he recalled was about $200,000) and that neighbors have collectively signed a petition asking the city to rectify the situation. Neighbor Eddie Arabella corroborated Larson’s account, saying he paid nearly $6,000 for a French drain to keep water from entering his house and that a cedar fence is being pushed in by saturated soil.

Council members and staff asked clarifying questions about the development timeline, whether the petitioners and developer had discussed remedies and whether the city had previously inspected or engaged the developer. A staff speaker noted prior review and discussions but did not identify a present remedy; the petitioner said the original developer likely has passed away.

Council members asked the petitioners to provide details and for staff to re-examine prior records; the city manager indicated staff would follow up with inspections and further review.