Residents raise drainage, flooding and tree concerns; compost program to continue for two years

Several residents used the public-comment period on July 11 to press the council on local infrastructure and maintenance issues.

George Workman asked the council to install a riser on a drain in front of his home and to investigate erosion in an alley north of his property that he said has caused his sidewalk and driveway to sink; he said he suspects a collapsed pipe under the area and asked the village to inspect. Mayor Robert Lloyd said he would look at the property.

Chris Berens (speaking about separate issues) reported that volunteers finished painting signs and praised public works staff Nathan and Wyatt for keeping the village looking good. She said her yard has been flooding for some time because a catch basin is set too high to capture runoff and asked council to address it; Lloyd said he would inspect. Berens also asked why Police Awareness banners were not displayed; Oberlin said the cost of renting a lift to hang banners is high.

Emmabelle Taylor asked that three large trees in a curb strip on Canal Street be trimmed and asked what will happen to the village compost program when it ends in 2025. Oberlin and Mayor Lloyd said the village is discussing replacement programs; Lloyd said the compost program "will continue for the next 24 months," giving the village time to plan alternatives.

Carl Beatty criticized recent changes tied to the meter project, saying billing issues have become a "total nightmare" for him and requesting the village implement the required 60-day shutoff period. He said tenants owe arrears and he fears being held responsible; Bellinger suggested landlords build water costs into rent and administration said they are working on a solution.

The council did not take immediate action on the public-comment items but recorded the concerns and said officials would inspect and follow up.