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Residents describe years of Mitchell Street runoff; council directs engineering review and grant exploration
Summary
Two residents told the Tazewell council that chronic stormwater runoff from Third/Slaughter Streets has eroded their driveway and flooded their basement for years. The council directed staff to seek engineering analysis and pursue grant funding options for a permanent fix.
Elena Quinn and her brother Patrick told the council June 9 they have endured recurring stormwater runoff damage at their Mitchell Street property since about 2018, documenting driveway erosion, repeated basement flooding and ongoing repair costs they described as "thousands of dollars." They provided photos and asked the town to identify a permanent solution rather than repeated temporary repairs.
Town Manager Leanne acknowledged the town had attempted temporary repairs but said the problem likely originates uphill on Third/Slaughter Streets and appears to be a broader stormwater-drainage issue affecting multiple properties. Leanne recommended engineering analysis and noted potential grant opportunities from state programs to address stormwater runoff.
Councilors discussed access, potential easement needs (work across multiple private properties), and the practicality of engineering versus piecemeal repairs. After public comment and staff input, the council agreed to direct staff to contact engineering services to assess the root cause, create a plan for a permanent remedy and investigate grant funding opportunities.
Elena Quinn said she and her family had repeatedly reported the problem to town staff and that temporary fixes had not solved the root cause. "We've been dealing with this issue since 2018," she said, asking councilors to prioritize a permanent engineering solution.
The council’s direction was procedural rather than an appropriation; staff said they would begin engineering outreach the following Monday and return with options.
