The meeting began with Mayor Catrambone expressing frustration with the slow pace of the Army Corps of Engineers, stating, “I wish I never had to work with them but unfortunately they’re the ones it’s their jurisdiction.” The focus was on the efforts to mitigate flooding and stabilize stream bank erosion, with the township sending formal requests for assistance to the Army Corps. After receiving a federal interest determination in 2021, the council had to fund a feasibility study to explore potential options. However, the pace of the Army Corps was described as “glacial,” and further funding was needed due to changes in federal requirements for the study. The potential for a pump station as a mitigation measure was mentioned, but the outdated nature of previous design proposals was noted.

The council also discussed the potential purchase or condemnation of property to build a retention pond near Milbridge Elementary. Mayor Catrambone presented a concept involving a retention pond that would cost around $5 million. Councilmember Tyler Burrell emphasized the importance of residents filling out applications for the Blue Acres program to make more funds available in the future. The need for improved communication with affected residents was also highlighted.

During the public comments portion, residents’ concerns took the floor. Jody Klein criticized the lack of proactive communication and assistance from the township for those displaced by flooding. Vicky Pepper raised the question of reaching out to Congress regarding the Army Corps of Engineers’ involvement. In response, Mayor Catrambone mentioned previous efforts to involve federal representatives.

Joseph Dobron, a resident with experience as an engineer for the Army Corps of Engineers, doubted the timeline for the Corps to respond. The council clarified the funding was approved and ongoing discussions were in place to expedite the project. Resident Tiffany Otis raised concerns about her condemned house and the potential for devastating floods, while Matt Williams highlighted a local issue with storm drains causing flooding, emphasizing the lack of action from the council.

The council acknowledged the scope of the flooding issues. They explained the breakdown of funding responsibility for flood management measures and discussed engaging with federal and state representatives to push for progress.

The cost and progress of the feasibility study were also debated. Concerns were raised about the increasing cost, from 14 million to an estimated 13.5 million, and the need for additional studies. Residents affected by flooding expressed concerns about short-term solutions. The Blue Acres program representatives discussed the voluntary state buyout program, and a Salvation Army representative offered community assistance.