Residents press City over flooding and tree removal at proposed Grace Estates subdivision

Planning and Economic Development Coordinator Pam Fechter presented the final plat for Grace Estates, a 12-home subdivision off Detroit Road, and answered resident concerns over stormwater and tree removal. Neighbors said tree clearing has already increased yard flooding and asked who will be responsible if stormwater systems fail; Fechter and City Engineer Ryan Cummins said the site is covered by Army Corps wetland permits, developer-required stormwater infrastructure must meet engineering calculations and City Code, and City inspections occur before formal acceptance of improvements.

Resident Lauri Mathie said she has lived at her property for decades and warned that digging and grading could worsen longstanding drainage problems: "I have never had standing water in my backyard during 36 years of residence," she said, and asked how the City will ensure accountability if systems underperform. Developer Noam Adler said the company has worked with City staff on plans and that lot buyers or a homebuilder will likely complete individual landscaping; Fechter added that City rules require tree-lawn plantings and a deposit system that funds tree replacement tied to disturbed area. Cummins said the design includes storm sewers and basins intended to collect and release runoff at slower rates and that developers and their engineers remain responsible for code compliance and corrective action if systems fail. Council did not vote on the plat at the work session; the item remains scheduled for formal consideration on April 13.