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Noble County drainage board halts Wolf No. 370 reconstruction, orders further study of creek improvements
Summary
After hours of public comment, the Noble County Drainage Board voted to dismiss a proposed $147,400 reconstruction of the Wolf Number 370 tile and directed staff to study alternatives such as dredging Sycamore Creek and removing beaver dams before pursuing reconstruction.
The Noble County Drainage Board voted on July 15 to dismiss proceedings to order reconstruction of the Wolf Number 370 tile watershed and instead directed staff to study alternatives, following a daylong public hearing and extensive testimony from landowners.
Randolph A. Sexton, the Noble County surveyor, had recommended full reconstruction, saying the tile contains reverse grades and humps that prevent “positive drainage” and that the system “needs to be replaced in order to provide positive drainage for the affected lands.” Sexton’s written estimate put the total project cost at $147,400, including $59,844.68 to install drain infrastructure within the Indiana State Highway 8 right-of-way.
But dozens of property owners and residents questioned whether reconstruction is the correct first step. John Kettler, who said he has lived in the area for decades, argued that the drain “works” in most conditions and that faster conveyance could simply move water downstream rather than eliminate flooding. Other residents urged the board to examine Sycamore Creek channel capacity and beaver dam removal before levying assessments for a large reconstruction.
Board member Speaker 4 moved to dismiss the reconstruction proceeding and consider cleaning or dredging Sycamore Creek as a priority; Speaker 3 seconded the motion. The board carried the motion by voice vote after deliberation.
The board did not adopt reconstruction as an immediate project and instead asked county staff and counsel to investigate lower-cost or targeted remedies, including creek dredging, beaver-trap/removal options and limited repairs to specific tile humps. Officials said any future decision to reconstruct would follow a separate hearing or action and include an updated cost and assessment schedule.
The decision leaves the Wolf No. 370 watershed in study status; residents who spoke at the hearing were told the board will announce follow-up steps once county staff completes additional analysis.
