Homeowners say Olathe-approved stormwater design is failing; residents demand accountability

Several residents from College Meadows presented detailed testimony that recent flash floods left basements inundated and that the subdivision’s stormwater infrastructure was designed or inspected improperly. Kate Gimbelo described repeated floods that left “4 to 5 feet deep” of water in her house and said the city’s consultants (HNTB) identified four major design and build issues. She said the city initially blamed low foundation elevations but later acknowledged engineering flaws and offered a partial, homeowner‑cost solution the residents rejected.

Max Cook, David Silverstein (a retired engineer who reviewed as‑built plans), Julie Brundes and others asserted the pipe and overflow systems cannot handle expected flows and that the design funnels runoff into a pond that overtops, pressuring homes and public roads. Silverstein said the consultant recommended replacing a 48‑inch pipe with an 8x4 box culvert to increase capacity. Residents said a tort claim was denied and called on the city to repair the system, prioritize safety and compensate or buy out affected homeowners if necessary. City staff did not accept responsibility during the meeting; residents asked for more transparent follow‑up and accountability.