PORT ANGELES — A buildup of sediment in a culvert at Valley Creek puts the stream at risk of flooding during the upcoming fall and winter storms, the City Council was told Tuesday.
The council voted 5-2 Tuesday to authorize City Manager Kent Myers to issue a contract to remove the obstruction as soon as possible.
City Council members Cherie Kidd and Max Mania voted against the action because contract bids have not been received.
The cost estimate is between $35,000 and $100,000.
Glenn Cutler, city public works and utilities director, told the council the city didn’t have time to wait until the Sept. 20 meeting to bring bids to the council because of the flood risk.
Cutler said the city discovered the buildup in the last 100 feet of the culvert in May but didn’t bring the issue forward earlier because the city’s permit applications with the Army Corps of Engineers and state Department of Fish & Wildlife had not been processed.
Staff members expect the permits this week.
Cutler said the permit applications were submitted shortly after the obstruction was found.
In November 2009, Tumwater Creek flooded several businesses, including the Plunkin Shack and Pettit Oil.
The council voted unanimously Tuesday to settle a claim with Pettit Oil for up to $30,000.
The Plunkin Shack’s $63,212 claim has not been settled.
Cafe owners Patti and Brian Larson allege the city did not properly maintain the culvert at the mouth of the creek, leading to greater flooding.
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Reporter Tom Callis can be reached at 360-417-3532 or at tom.callis@peninsuladailynews.com.
