Sumas council discusses short-term flood fixes as residents press for action

A Sumas resident asked the City Council on July 27 whether any mitigation had been done to help with future flooding, prompting councilmembers to outline short-term measures while noting funding and planning constraints.

"Elliot Swaney, Wilson Lane, inquired whether any mitigation had been done to help with any future flooding," the meeting minutes record. Councilmember Josh Clawson said constituents remain unhappy about river erosion and flood risk and that there is no dedicated funding for many mitigation projects.

Councilmembers discussed immediate steps that could be taken with local crews and volunteers — placing "super sacks" on Emerson Road, building a berm along the river, and cleaning ditches — but emphasized that many options require study, permitting or funding. Councilmember Jessica Koehler said she had spoken with County Councilmember Scanlon, who told her there is a vacancy in Ditching District 31 and encouraged a local resident to apply to that board to help coordinate ditching efforts.

The discussion also noted that the City has recently spent on recovery work: Councilmember Todd Daniels reported the City has paid $1.6 million for flood clean-up and has received about $564,000 from its insurance company, with additional insurance proceeds and FEMA assistance still pending. Council members said the city has placed a hold on major projects and is considering options to cover future costs, including possible utility rate changes and hiring an outside consultant to study utility rates and charges.

The council did not take formal action on a particular mitigation project at the July 27 meeting; members said further study and coordination with county and consultants will be needed before making commitments.