2008-09-22 Regular Counsil Session minutes

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that MSD and the City should be proactive and be aware of the overgrowth and trash existing in River DesPeres. Ms. Sedqui also felt the City’s communication was inappropriate as she was not aware of when tetanus shots were being given or when FEMA was in for a review. She thought the City’s bulletin boards could have been used as a method of relaying information. Lynn Rossel, 7015 Olive Ms. Rossel is owner Rossel Electric. They have been trying to help people who had condemnations notices put on their doors. They have seen some houses in the flooded area where the basement was submerged in water and the electrical panel never shut off the electricity. After checking with the City for requirements, they Certified some houses so clean-up could begin. Then they were told that since the wires were submerged in water, all of these wires needed to be replaced. She only found out about all the agencies present for assistants and help at Centennial Commons, when she was at Heman Park Center on Saturday. Ms. Rossel felt better communication was needed by the City. She also felt the City should have notified the citizens when the water started rising, by going down street with sirens and horns blowing. Wilma Kennell, 1332 Purdue Ms. Kennell asked why a permit was needed to move in but was not inform you that the house is in a flood plain and would need flood insurance. Rosalyne Watson, 1223 Waldron Ms. Watson would like the City to find out why American Water Company has been working on the street for such a long period of time. They have left tons of gravel and is sure that the gravel flowed into the sewer system. They dirt is terrible and stirred up every time someone drives down the street. She also stated that instead of MSD inspector coming out when she called to report the flood damage, they sent her a packet of papers to complete. Bishop Arvell Garrett, 1062 Raisher Dr. Bishop Garrett stated that the flood was a surprise because he was told that MSD was installing a new line some years ago to relieve them of the flood problems they have had. Knowing this, he utilized his basement for living area. He stated that all the debris and growth was never cleaned out of River DesPeres. Bishop Garrett said that a lady from the American Red Cross told him about a Protection Act passed in 1973, where they could receive some benefits. He was inquiring as to what this was. He stated that when FEMA was out inspecting his house, they told him that they are not going along with U.City’s condemnation and would not be able to give him any help. Bishop Garrett was asking for an immediate buyout so he can relocate. Ms. Feier said that the condemnation notices were for the citizens’ safety, The notice had the lowest threshold possible: getting utilities back up, getting the home safe and getting the resident back in their house. Of the 300 homes that received condemnation notices there are only 30 that remain unsafe.