Flood debrief sessions scheduled

The Town of Coaldale has scheduled a trio of Community Debrief sessions, in order to collect information and connect with residents impacted by the June 2014 flooding in the community.

The three debriefs will take place on the following dates at the Coaldale Hub, located at 2107 13 Street: Aug. 26 from 2-3:30 p.m., Aug. 26 from 7-8:30 p.m. and Sept. 9 from 7-8:30 p.m.

In addition to collecting information from residents, the town will also provide information on any provincial-level relief options and future storm water mitigation plans.

Residents impacted by the flooding are encouraged to attend one of the sessions, which will follow a drop-in format.

Residents are asked to supply their name, address, phone number, extent of damage to their property and insurance coverage or denial.

“Town council is pleased to offer a series of open houses that will allow for the sharing of important information stemming from the June 2014 Flood,” said Coaldale Mayor Kim Craig, in a recent media release.

“The format of the open houses has been established in such a way as to facilitate discussion and we welcome the opportunity to hear from you,” added Craig.

“The town recognizes the devastating impact to our residents from our most recent flood event and as the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), I am committed to working with our residents to develop short and long-range plans to mitigate future events,” said newly appointed CAO Larry Davidson.

Director of Engineering and Operations, Andrew Saje, anticipates the debrief sessions will provide an opportunity for both the town and residents to share information collected during the flooding. “Not all of the problems, such as sewer backups, were the result of infrastructure.”

He added in some cases residents may not be aware of how dealing with overland flooding and drainage on their property can have a negative impact on their neighbours and those further downstream. Saje also sees the sessions as an opportunity for the town to communicate the steps Coaldale is taking to move forward in the handling of drainage water within the community without relying on the Malloy Drain.

“We’re putting forth a couple of RFPs (Request For Proposal) to help with this.”

He encourages residents impacted by the flooding to attend one of the sessions. “It’s a good venue to connect with people, listen to their concerns and how they were affected during the flood event.”

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