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Elderly resident told sewer lateral repair is homeowner responsibility; bank assistance suggested
Summary
A Hammond resident said a large street sinkhole near 942 State Street aligns with her sewer lateral; sewer staff said lateral repairs to the main are the homeowner's responsibility and recommended an assistance application at 1st Merchants Bank for eligible elderly or disabled residents.
At the meeting's public comment period, resident Linda Eichen said a large hole near the curb outside her property at 942 State Street is causing her hardship and that she received a notice asking her to pay for repairs. Sewer department staff reported camera work showing the defect aligns with her lateral line and explained that lateral repairs from the house to the main are typically the homeowner's responsibility.
Recognizing Eichen's limited income, a board member asked staff to provide contact information for financial assistance; inspections staff recommended the 1st Merchants Bank program on Hohman Avenue for elderly and disabled homeowners. A local contractor offered to do work pro bono if possible but noted limitations because the defect is on or before the public right-of-way and not always subject to city pickup or repair.
