Resident urges accountability as Kirkland advances stormwater study; council warns funds are limited

Dan Carlisle, who provided a written letter to the council, told members he wants clear responsibility and action on persistent flooding in his neighborhood. "I just want somebody to take responsibility," Carlisle said during the stormwater discussion, urging officials not to raise rates without a plan for what the county or town will do about repairs.

Council members and public works staff said the town is participating in a broader, county‑level stormwater study and that coordination with Boone County may be required because the watershed is shared. Public works lead Billy told the council that engineers from Commonwealth have performed survey work and will take elevations and mapping across Kirkland, and the town will meet with county staff and consultants to identify needed repairs and grant‑ready projects. "Kirkland has failed to do that every year," Billy said, arguing for steady investment rather than short‑term fixes.

Officials said applying for grants will require the town to demonstrate local investment; the council discussed the possibility of modest rate increases to match grants but emphasized that the stormwater fund will be stretched by planned repairs. Chair noted a recent resignation from the stormwater board and said the town must recruit an appointee who meets party rules before taking action on vacancies. Staff and council agreed to continue the study, meet with county surveyors, and return with maps and a recommended timeline for repairs.