Posted by Lisa Strawbridge - email
TOLEDO (WTOL) - Many Toledoans also experienced flooding problems this week.
Much of the chaos was caused by sewer system back-up, so the city is renewing a commitment to help homeowners keep their basements dry.
This week, the city has received over 200 calls of flooded basements. Toni Feltman in the Old West End had that happen in the past. "In 2005, when all the heavy rain started in June, we had a little flooding, and then it continued," she said.
Those problems went away two years ago when she installed a backwater stand pipe and check-valve through the city's basement flood remediation program. "We got our two estimates and picked the contractor we wanted. We had it done within a week, and the city cut us a check very quickly."
The city will pay up to $2,000 for home owners to install those valves and pipes, as well as a sump pump.
Kathy Youngman also took those steps two years ago. Even though there was some out-of-pocket expense, she no longer worries when it rains. "My husband and I were so happy. We did it. It's paid off. We have peace of mind, and I don't have to worry about the sewer system backing up in my basement."
Even though there's currently a backlog of applications, Council's Mike Ashford is urging affected Toledoans to contact the city and apply. "It's clearly devastation when your basement's flooded with raw sewage. It sets a family back, and the city should take responsibility."
On Tuesday, Toledo City Council will vote on a measure to commit an additional $300,000 to this program out of the sewer operating fund.
