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Drainage board approves maintenance claims; residents press for fixes to local flooding
Summary
The Delaware County Drainage Board approved maintenance claims and heard updates on spraying and debrushing projects; residents raised recurring flooding near West Lawn and downstream concerns tied to commercial runoff and development.
The Delaware County Drainage Board approved routine maintenance claims and heard updates on debrushing and spraying work during its June meeting.
Surveyor staff reported progress on debrushing projects across several ditches (Campbell Creek, Donovan, Morrison and others) and discussed contractor licensing constraints for aquatic spraying; staff noted three companies in the state qualified to spray county ditches and explained that drone spraying has limitations and licensing requirements.
The board approved maintenance claims (including four claims from Butler Masonry) by roll call. Board members also discussed contractor scheduling and the board’s practice of withholding final payment until required cleanup is completed.
Public comments: a downstream contractor, Jiren Crabtree of JJC Excavating, asked how the county will handle any downstream complaints if work upstream accelerates flows; staff said downstream effects will be evaluated and additional maintenance or debrushing can be scheduled. Later in the meeting a resident from West Lawn reported continued flooding in a long-established subdivision after heavy rain and urged county intervention, noting that runoff from nearby commercial parcels appears to be contributing. Staff explained the upstream field tile and private storm systems are private infrastructure and recommended municipal coordination for permitting, while offering to inspect the area and prepare a letter requesting that township/municipal permitting include the drainage board’s review for projects within 75 feet of regulated tile.
Legal note: County attorney Mr. Brooks briefed the board on an Indiana 2009 case that places liability for damage from a fallen dead tree on the landowner or possessor of the land; the board discussed how control of a right-of-way differs from ownership and how responsibility may attach when the board controls a ditch right-of-way.
Next steps: staff will continue maintenance scheduling, pursue debrushing where practical, and inspect the West Lawn site to recommend potential interventions and any coordination needed with township or municipal permitting authorities.
