Slippery Rock residents react to flood; council reassures plans underway
SLIPPERY ROCK — Nearly every seat for the Slippery Rock Borough Council meeting was full Tuesday evening, July 14, as council prepared to discuss recent flooding of residences and businesses.
The borough experienced significant flooding on the evening of July 5, which caused Mayor Jondavid Longo to declare a disaster emergency. Longo also met with the American Red Cross to provide relief to those affected worst.
Resident Dennis Snyder spoke during public comment Tuesday to share his experiences with flooding in the area and offer some potential ideas to address the recurring issue.
“The first was three years ago. It was about 2 feet of sewage and water in our basement, resulting in $10,000 of damage. The second brought 6 inches of water and required assistance from the fire department. Most recently, we experienced another flood, which was about 1 foot of sewage and water,” he said.
Snyder, who said he works with sewer and stormwater systems, told council a comprehensive strategy would help reduce flooding and sewer backups.
David Gordley, a dentist who previously told the Butler Eagle he would need to replace flooring and equipment following the July 5 flooding, also shared his experience.
“This is the second time in four years that I’ve had over $100,000 worth of damage to my practice,” he told council Tuesday.
He said he was frustrated by previous council suggestions, such as getting flood insurance and being told to keep his grates clean.
“I don’t know if I matter to this community or not, but I’ve given this community my heart,” he said.
He called the most recent flooding “inevitable and predictable” and called on council to take action.
Borough solicitor Rebecca Black said Gateway Engineers assessed the property in the past and determined the borough was actively addressing the issue when possible. She said the engineer would need to review the issue before any action will be decided upon.
During council reports, several members added they or someone they know were also impacted by the flooding.
“I’ve lived in the borough since 1994, and I can tell you, the last time I saw that much rain was 2005 when Hurricane Katrina came through,” Councilman Paul Leuken said.
While no action was taken at the meeting, borough manager Christian Laskey said he received hundreds of calls and both the borough office and parks building were damaged.
“It was an overall disaster,” he said.
Laskey and members of council said there are ongoing efforts and future plans to address the issue. Many council members also called on Slippery Rock Municipal Authority, which is responsible for the sewer system, to take action.
Longo reassured attendees they are constantly discussing solutions to the problem.
“I truly believe that we’re all in this together,” he said.
The next borough council meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. Tuesday, July 21.
