Residents urge town action on backyard drainage and standing water; DPW to inspect catch basin

Two residents raised ongoing drainage and standing-water problems behind multiple homes on Edgewood during the public-comment period, telling the council that a sagging catch basin and poor drainage are creating persistent pools that attract mosquitoes.

One resident described standing water behind homes at 831 Edgewood and said the basin has contained water for decades, is eroding and is contributing to rodents and mosquitoes. “There’s a huge drain on my property… it floods up into our yards,” the resident said. Council members acknowledged the problem and the Chair committed to having Department of Public Works staff inspect the catch basin the next day to determine if cleaning or repair is feasible.

A separate commenter reported a tree growing into electrical lines near Dunn Street and was advised to contact the electric company; council staff said they would coordinate with DPW contacts and the property owner to address trimming on easements if appropriate.

What’s next: Chair said DPW personnel (superintendent Brian Moore or designated staff) would visit the site to assess the catch basin and drainage and to determine whether easements or private-property access is required for remediation. Residents were advised to expect DPW crews and to coordinate with neighbors before crews enter properties.