Trustees Approve Cedar Creek Drainage Study

When about 6 inches of rain fell on Lake Zurich in about four hours on June 26, Jeff Faetz found himself in what he referred to as "the epicenter of the flood."

His home, in fact, has experienced many floods, the Thistle Lane resident told Lake Zurich trustees at their meeting Monday night. He has lost vehicles, computers, a television and other items to these floods, the most recent of which left 4.5 feet of water in his family room. Faetz said he has given up on rehabbing his basement, which has flooded twice, and said "we could never sell the house."

"I'd just like to know what this village is doing about the storm sewer system," said Faetz. 

Trustees voted unanimously Monday night to spend $37,900 on the Cedar Creek Drainage Study. Manhard Consultants was the lowest bidder for the project, for which the village had budgeted $50,000. 

"The village has identified the area surrounding Thistle Lane and Stone Avenue of the Cedar Creek Subdivision as a problematic area for severe flooding," according to village board documents. 

Village staff said the study would take six to nine months, and then the village will receive a list of recommended improvements to consider.
 
"This is something that's going to take us a little time to complete," said Trustee Jeff Halen. 

"I appreciate that a thorough review is going to be conducted on this," added Trustee Jonathan Sprawka. He added that residents should be informed about what emergency procedures village officials will take in the meantime should there be the threat for additional flooding "so folks know what to expect."

Building and Zoning Manager Dan Peterson said following the flooding, 36 permits have come in, mainly for things like hot water replacements and electrical service panels. The village waived $2,200 in permit fees on those minor projects, Peterson said. 

"If you're planning to do further remodeling, please come in an talk to us," said Peterson. He warned residents of fly-by-night contractors who village staff found were doing things illegally and installing faulty wiring.