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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes - 7/21/1999 - Public Works Committee Public Works Committee Meeting � Minutes July 21, 1999 Present: Chairperson Alderman Bolger, Alderman Baird, Alderman Glab Others Present: Mayor Cuda, City Clerk Althoff, City Administrator Lobaito, Assistant Administrator Maxeiner, City Attorney McArdle, Director of Public Works Batt, City Engineer Representatives William Blecki and Carl Moon (arrived at 7:07 p.m.) Public Works Chairperson Alderman Bolger called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. He stated the purpose of the committee meeting was to discuss the June 13th flooding and related sanitary sewer backup problems as well as to address the 1999 Streets Improvement Program. He stated the committee would address each agenda item and open the floor to audience comment and inquiry thereafter. FLOODING/JUNE 13, 1999 Chairperson Alderman Bolger noted staff had successfully addressed sandbag availability. Sandbags would not only be available at the city garage but also at the Lakeland Community Center and the Water Treatment Plant facility located at the south end of Beach Street, off State Route 120. Director of Public Works Batt introduced City Engineering, Baxter and �, Woodman representative, William Blecki. Director Batt stated in addition to the known flooding areas, other more isolated flood-related problems occurred. He cited significant soil erosion problems in the Maple Avenue neighborhood and Riverside Drive runoff conditions. Solutions to the soil erosion problem were currently under investigation. The Riverside Drive run-off was corrected and cleanup efforts completed. The developer in question has redirected the water runoff to area detention basins and a corrected drainage system is now in place. Overland flooding in the Oaks of McHenry subdivision is not yet resolved, however solutions are being investigated. Area detention must be recalculated to meet today's 100-year flood criteria as opposed to the criteria established during the subdivision's 1989 plat review. City engineering representative, Carl Moon arrived at 7:07 p.m. City Administrator Lobaito summarized the conditions experienced by the City of McHenry on June 13, 1999, leading to the severe flooding and sanitary sewer backup problems. He noted the McHenry Lock and Dam reported a record rainfall on Sunday, June 13th of 4.01 inches. The storm sustained long periods of heavy rain. A personal survey of the trouble areas revealed significant problems had developed, by noontime, in both stormwater and wastewater systems. Road sections were overtopped, wastewater systems were backed up and surface � flooding of numerous low-lying areas was apparent. The Police Department f Public Works Committee Meeting Minutes � July 21, 1999 Page 'I�vo handled early calls and response, however Public Works Department personnel responded in force by 11:00 a.m. City Administrator Lobaito stated large areas of surface flooding was experienced in the following areas: along Prairie Avenue from Meadow to Oak including Clearbrook east of Eastern along Clearview Avenue between North and Millstream Avenues along Pine Drive south of McCullom Lake road along Anne Street near Dale including Clover and Timothy and isolated areas within the McHenry Shores subdivision. Sanitary sewer backup problems were experienced in the following areas: within the Center, Dale and Anne Street area within the Riverstream Drive and Judy Lane area on Millstream on Loch Glen. Director Batt noted both the Central and South Wastewater Treatment Plants experienced flows in excess of available pumping capacity. At one point both State route 31 and Anne Street overtopped simultaneously creating severe traffic backup. In addition several streets were closed for extended periods of time. Emergency vehicle service access was reduced significantly. � Staff has expressed concern regarding flooding in the area of Loch Glen as this appears to be a new, previously unidentified problem. Flooding in the Lakeland Park subdivision area is currently being corrected. Dra.inage improvements are being constructed in phases and when complete will significantly reduce, if not eliminate, flooding problems. The completion date is tentatively scheduled for the year 2001. The availability of sandbags will be continually monitored due to the deterioration process. Discussion occurred regarding solutions for sanitary sewer backups. Director Batt recommended installation of overhead sewers or check valves. He described the operating function of a check valve for council edification. He suggested the committee consider recommending to full council the passage of an ordinance requiring installation of overhead sewers in all newly constructed residential units. Staff noted the overhead sewer installation was a standard feature in all Park Ridge Estate residential units currently under construction. In response to committee inquiry Director Batt explained the sanitary sewer system experienced backups because of excessive water surcharge due to the invasion of stormwater into the wastewater system. Stormwater invades the wastewater system in a variety of ways, including manhole covers. Some discussion followed regarding the desirability of sealing manholes. Staff � suggested sealing only those manholes located in underwater areas. � s Public Works Committee Meeting Minutes � July 21, 1999 Page Three Discussion continued regarding the feasibility of performing an infiltration analysis. Director Batt opined an analysis is usually less than successful, however additional capacity in the sanitary sewer plant can be obtained. In response to Alderman Baird's inquiry Director Batt noted in all likelihood some residential sump pumps were connected directly to the wastewater system. It was the consensus of the committee to inform City of McHenry residents through the city newsletter that direct connection of sump pumps to the sanitary sewer is illegal. In response to Committee inquiry Director Batt noted these illegal hookups do affect the sanitary sewer system. Within a fifteen (15) to (20) minute period enough water could potentially infiltrate the sanitary system overtaxing area lift stations significantly. Chairperson Alderman Bolger opined corrective solutions must be available, as the river was an apparent eighteen (18) to nineteen (19) inches lower than the Anne Street/Dale Avenue intersection. He also noted the complete flooding of McCracken Field resulting in the eventual submersion of Kane Street. In response to Chairperson Alderman Bolger's inquiry Director Batt affirmed the second Green Street culvert currently unavailable for use might be retrofitted � for future use. He also explained the existing culverts crossing Green and John Streets are only 40% the size of the culvert installed along State Route 31. Downstream drainage should be at least equal in size to facilitate the proper drainage of stormwater runoff. A variety of solutions are available for council consideration. Director Batt noted two engineering firms, Baxter and Woodman and Smith Engineering have expressed interest in proposing corrective measures. Chairpersc�n Alderman Bolger recommended the following corrective measures for committee consideration: -Authorize the hiring of City Engineering firm, Baxter and Woodman to analyze existing flooding conditions and make recommendations for corrective measures; -Sec:ure easements from the Union Pacific railroad tracks to the Fox River for better stormwater drainage control -Secure authority over the McHenry Country Club Dam which traverses John Stree�t -Construct retaining walls for affected Grove, Anne, Maple, Grand and Millstream properties -Se��l/waterproof all manholes which were submerged during the June 13� flooding. In response to Committee inquiry Baxter and Woodman representative, Carl � � J Public Works Committee Meeting Minutes � July 21, 1999 Page Four Moon stated each new development approved by the McHenry City Council, since 1989, adequately addressed stormwater management issues. Both stormwater and wastewater lines were sized appropriately. Alderman Baird noted most of the flooding and sanitary sewer backups were experienced in the older sections of the city. The sanitary sewer backup experienced by Loch Glen residents may have been caused by their proximity to the South Wastewater Treatment Plant and the area's low elevation. Further discussion occurred with Baxter and Woodman representative, Carl Moon. In response to Chairperson Alderman Bolger's inquiry Mr. Moon stated a cost proposal could be developed and presented for full council review within one week. The scope of services will entail the drainage conveyance system from State Route 31 to the Fox River along Anne Street, Edgebrook School property and McHenry Country Club. The proposal will be delivered prior to the regularly scheduled July 28� council meeting. Alderman Glab suggested future planning include a re�onal detention area, perhaps the Pacini property located on west State Route 31. He opined a regional detention area would not only alleviate existing stormwater runoff, but will also address future growth concerns. � In response to Alderman Glab's inquiry, staff stated the installation/construction of retaining walls might be partially funded with the development of a special service area. Alderman Baird recommended the finance committee address funding mechanisms for the more costly corrective measures. Less expensive corrective measures could be reviewed and approved accordingly. It was the consensus of the committee to recommend full council authorize the sealing and/or waterproofing of the affected manholes immediately. Staff, with the assistance of city engineering firm, B�ter and Woodman, can identify those manholes requiring sealing. Motion by Bolger, seconded by Glab to recommend the following corrective measures to full council for consideration: -authorize the hiring of City Engineering firm, Baxter and Woodman to analyze existing flooding conditions and make recommendations for corrective measures; -secure easements from the Union Pacific ra.ilroad tracks to the Fox River for better stormwater drainage control; -secure authority over the McHenry Country Club Dam which traverses John Street; � � Public Works Committee Meeting Minutes' � July 21, 1999 Page Five -construct retaining walls for affected Grove, Anne, Maple, Grand and Millstream properties; -seal/waterproof all manholes which were submerged during the June 13th flooding. Voting Aye: Baird, Bolger, Glab Voting Nay: None Absent: None Motion carried. Baxter and Woodman representative, Carl Moon, noted although the committee had addressed corrective action for stormwater flooding, no recommendations had been given regarding wastewater backup concerns. Director Batt stated the quickest and most reliable correction for sanitary sewer backup would be the installation of check valve or overhead sanitary sewer lines. He again recommended the committee consider passage of an ordinance requiring all new residential units be constructed with overhead sewer lines. Some discussion followed regarding the feasibility of initiating a financial incentive program for existing homeowners wishing to install overhead sewer lines. � Director Batt noted the Village of Barrington instituted an ordinance addressing this issue. Staff was directed to obtain a copy of the ordinance for full council review. In addition, Baxter and Woodman representative Carl Moon offered to conduct seminars for city residents providing information regarding corrective measures for wastewater backup and flooding. Further discussion occurred regarding a catch basin problem at 715 N. Green Street. Streets Superintendent Stull, who was in the audience, informed the committee there was too much water for the system to handle effectively. Discussion continued regarding the Green Street restrictor at Edgebrook. Cha.irperson Alderman Bolger opened the floor to audience comment: Scott Ericson of 3711 Anne Street addressed the committee. In response to his inquiry regarding any intentional flooding of the Anne Street area by the City of McHenry to alleviate flooding in other areas of town, City Administrator Lobaito stated not only was no such action undertaken, no such control device existed. Staff also noted during the flooding of 1996 area grates were blocked by debris. Ann Cuda of 3911 Clearbrook addressed the committee . Ms. Cuda noted residents living along the south side of Clearbrook Avenue experienced wastewater backup, however residents living along the north side of Clearbrook did not. She requested the committee consider permitting the homes along the south side connect to the same sanitary sewer line as those properties located � � Public Works Committee Meeting Minutes � July 21, 1999 Page Six along the north side of Clearbrook. She also noted although Freund Field was, in effect, acting as a detention pond, the area still experienced flooding. Al Kurz of 608 Broadway distributed photographs depicting his personal flooding occurrence on June 13�. He noted he had never experienced a flooding problem previously and opined this specific occurrence was the direct result of new construction, which blocked the existing drainage pathway. Mr. Keith Taunis of 613 Orchid Path stated he was a neighbor of Mr. Kurz and experienced similar flooding problems. Ron Samuelson of 4903 Willow Lane informed the committee his home had experienced flooding problems on six separate occasions since 1986. He opined the cessation of the creek maintenance program has negatively impacted his personal situation. He expressed concern regarding on-going maintenance of the creek allowing proper drainage to the creek. He informed the committee he and his neighborhood had to use a pickaxe and shovel to unblock debris blocking the area drainage way. Tom Reese of 4910 Willow Lane noting he was Mr. Samuelson's neighbor, addressed the committee. He informed the committee regular maintenance of �, the culverts located underneath area driveways did not occur. He stated his property has experienced flooding on three separate occasions because of the lack of culvert maintenance. Debbie Karlsen of 3812 Anne Street encouraged city engineering firm representatives to contact Anne Street homeowners personally to document the flooding conditions experienced on June 13th. Mr. Moon agreed and was provided Ms. Karlsen's phone number. Ms. Karlsen also requested staff provide information, specifically lift pump statistics. In response to her statement regarding the operation of the Anne Street lift station pumps, Director Batt stated only one pump was operational during the first 10 hours of Sunday morning because the flooding problem was not evidenced during the first six hours of operation. In response to Ms. Karlsen's inquiry regarding bypassing the treatment facility, Director Batt stated this option is against IEPA regulations. Ms. Karlsen offered information to the contrary noting she had spoken to IEPA representatives. Director Batt requested Ms. Karlsen provided staff with copies of this IEPA information for their perusal. Director Batt also noted neither the Central nor South Wastewater Treatment facility had bypass capabilities. Tom Reese of 4910 Willow addressed the committee again noting the committee should consider recommending to full council the implementation of an on- going maintenance program for these areas. � .�.. Public Works Committee Meeting Minutes � July 21, 1999 Page Seven Karen Buenzli of 238 Loch Glen informed the committee her home experienced wastewater backup during the June 13th storm. She requested further information regarding the installation of overhead sewers and/or a reverse valve. St�iff obtained Ms. Buenzli's telephone number and stated intent to contact her regarding these corrective measures. Diane Wetterquist of 4511 Cleaxview informed the committee her home experienced the same flooding problems as in 1996. Current corrective improvements undertaken by the City in the Lakeland Park subdivision area have not corrected her flooding problems. Ms. Wetterquist has implemented corrective measures at her own expense, yet they too appear to be inadequate. A lengthy discussion ensued between committee members and Lakeland Park area residents. Ms. Blinkal suggested the city, after purchasing her home, demolish it and utilize the site as a detention pond for the area. She informed the committee videotape of her flooding problem could be supplied council. Staff recommended consideration of the installation of stormwater lines along the rear-yard property line to alleviate the flooding in this area of Clearview. In response to audience inquiry, staff responded the Lakeland Park drainage project was scheduled for completion either next year or 2001. Director Batt � also informed the committee the Illinois Department of Transportation originally designed the stormwater drainage design in Lakeland Park. He will make an attempt to find the appropriate design data. 1999 STREET IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM Alderman Glab requested the committee address the city's current policy regarding curb replacement as part of the Streets Program. He expressed dissatisfaction with the replacement selection on Oakwood Drive. He informed the committee a meeting with the Streets Project Manager from Baxter and Woodman and City Inspector Marcinko provided the information curb replacement was conducted based on function not aesthetics. He requested consideration be given to the replacement of significantly damaged curb. A lengthy discussion followed regarding the potential cost of replacing all unappealing curb. In response to committee inquiry staff noted the cost of curb replacement, not including removal, was $5/foot. Mayor Cuda noted financial constraints eliminated Grand Avenue from the 1999 Streets Program and it was visually apparent this street needed immediate repair. It was the consensus of the committee to view the Oakwood curb replacement selection and make a formal determination of curb replacement policy thereafter. � ( Public Works Committee Meeting Minutes � July 21, 1999 Page Eight NEW BUSINESS Alderman Baird requested staff provide a project update report on the Loch Glen/Turnberry drainage problem. Staff concurred. Alderman Glab requested staff continue to investigate the feasibility of extending Lillian Street west of Crystal Lake Avenue. He opined it was a good plan. City Administrator Lobaito reported this suggestion will be reviewed in conjunction with the full Crystal Lake Road planning study to be conducted by Planning Resources. In addition the committee requested staff to investigate the possibility of a joint access between the Post Office and Ace Hardware. Motion by Ba.ird, seconded by Glab to adjourn aat 9:30 p.m. Voting Aye: Baird, Bolger, Glab Voting Nay: None Absent: None Motion carried. : , , .a � Chairpers��n Willi Bolger � `- � , r, PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE '�- JiTLY 21, 1999 AGENDA SUPPLEMENT TO: Public Works Co 'ttee FROM: Fred Batt SUBJECT: Rainfal nd Subsequent Flooding of June 13, 1999 On Sunday, June 13, 1999 the City suffered from one of the most significant rainfall events over the past several years. The McHenry Lock and Dam reported rainfall on Friday, June 11 at 0.48", on Saturday the 12�'rainfall was 1.22"and on Sunday 4.01". The storm began at approximately 6:30 AM on Sunday and ended about 2:00 PM. It was a very untypical storm �{� because high winds, lightning and thunder were not evident. The storm sustained long periods of \� ` heavy rainfalL ,� ��t A personal survey of the known trouble areas in the communi was conducted between 10:0 �,' tY 0 � �. and 11:00 AM and no problems were apparent. This changed very rapidly over the hour as upstream flows to tributary streams came into play and rainfall continued as well. By noon it was very apparent significant problems had developed in conveyance systems, both storm and wastewater. Road sections were overtopped, wastewater systems were backed up and surface flooding of low-lying areas was apparent. Problems continued to develop as late as 6:00 PM, Green Street near Kane was overtopped. Early community response was handled by Police Dispatch, but by 11:00 AM this was supplemented with phone answering services at Public Works offices. A summary of Public Works calls for storm related problems are attached for the period until June 17�' for your information. We have also prepared a map logging these calls in an effort to define problem areas. Lazge areas of surface flooding were along a Prairie Avenue corridor from Meadow to Oak including Clearbrook east of Eastern, Clearview between North and Millstream, Pine Drive (condos south of McCullom Lake Road), Anne Street near Dale including Clover and Timothy, and several isolated areas of McHenry Shores. Sanitary sewer backups occurred in the Center, Dale and Anne Street area; Millstream; and Loch Glen. Other unreported backups including a sanitary system overflow occurred in the area of Riverstream and Judy. Both the Central and South Wastewater Plants experienced flows in excess of pumping capability. Public Works overtime reached 99 hours over the weekend. Most of this time was spent keeping� k drainage systems open, streets both open and closed and simply finding ways around flooding to.-': �' get from point A to point B. During one part of the day both Route 31 and Anne Street overtopped simultaneously with azeas 18" deep. Neither was able to handle traffic adequately ���' �, .��� � and backups oPtraffic were severe. Access for emergency services was very difficult and slow. Several streets were closed for extended periods and no suitable detour was available for Route 31 (Front Strec:t traffic). Not much in ttie way of assistance to individuals can be done under these circumstances. However, once� flood waters subsided the City provided special pickup services for ruined household goods. We also provided advice to many residents about how to avoid future problems, particularly sanitary sewer backups. We have also addressed several other problems since. At least three homeowners in the non-City portion of Riverside Drive south of McCullom Lake Road suf Pered from large volumes of silt and water running off the development to the north. We wo1•ked with the developer and quickly completed some improvements that will relieve, if not cure, the situation. Another problem on its way to solution is a severe bank erosion problem on Maple that was supplied with rip-rap from the Street Program. We put the contractor and the homeowner in touch with each other who aze working together to solve the problem. We have also assisted homeowners on Timothy and Loch Glen to assist them in solving their sewer backup problems. We have inspected the Edgebrook drainage pipe to insure no obstructions occurred that would hamper future drainage. We discussed improvements to the Edgebrook drainage system with both Smith Engineering and Baxter& Woodman. We are working on providing sandbags at one location to residents who are helped by them. Much remains to be done. We would like to present some new thoughts to the Public Works Committee regarding surface flooding at Anne Street and discuss a new concept employed in the Village of Barrington to encourage homeowners to solve their sewer backup problems. In addition, we w�uld like to discuss Ordinance changes that would require overhead sewers either in all cases or at least where it could be predetermined that a problem could occur. The following categories summarizes the nature of all problems experienced during the storm: 1. Sewer backups 2. Infiltration into sewer system 3. Insufficient capacity in existing storm drainage systems 4. Improper grading and building elevation on single family homes The problems experienced by the residents require a number of initiatives to reach a resolution. A number of ideas are listed below that should be discussed in greater detail at the meeting. 1. Offer incentive program to encourage residents to install overhead sewers.��- 2. Flood prevention to existing residents. •�- 3. Amend Ordinances to require overhead sewers for new construction. 4. Hire an Engineering Consultant to analyze the Anne Street drainage and recommend solutions. 5. Seal manhole covers and frames. FCB:ch Attachment