Resident urges Osakis to provide storm‑sewer hookup after years of basement flooding

A property owner who identified their address as 226 Central Avenue told the Osakis City Council that chronic surface and groundwater pooling behind downtown buildings has repeatedly flooded basements and kept concrete contractors from completing repairs. The speaker said private fixes have failed and requested that the city provide access to a storm sewer or accept ownership of the narrow alley between buildings so a catch basin can be installed.

Council members said they had discussed the problem with Darren in city sewer and water, who suggested running storm piping north along Main Street as a simpler option than tapping back through the private parcel. The speaker and others described the alley as heavily used despite being privately owned, with potholes, sandbags at a business entrance, and cars driving through; one council member noted the fire department parks in the area during emergencies.

Council members raised legal and practical hurdles: property ownership and delegated parking spots (one small square owned by "Genie" was described as a delegated parking space needed to legalize upstairs apartments), the need for easements or purchase of land, and uncertainty over who currently plows the area. Staff suggested exploring an easement first, then acquisition if necessary.

The owner offered to provide video evidence to staff and said the city’s involvement would reduce repeated basement damage to businesses including a café and the community center. Council members agreed to follow up: staff will consult Darren and planning/zoning, get cost estimates and pricing options, and bring drainage and easement options back to the workshop for further discussion.

Next steps: staff to investigate routing options (including the north‑on‑Main‑Street alternative), obtain quotes, and report back at the council workshop and at a subsequent meeting.