A $45.5 million master storm water management plan created to address chronic flooding in Libertyville, Illinois is under close watch as COVID-19 continues to impact communities.
The plan was prompted after 7.5 inches of rain fell in 12 hours in July 2017, flooding hundreds of homes, according to the Daily Herald. Recently, 6 inches fell in a five-day period, ending May 17, flooding several streets.
A storm water utility fee was recommended to be established, which would produce about $400,000 per year. The structure has not been determined, but it original plans assumed it would be implemented in January 2021.
Due to COVID-19, these plans changed, added the Daily Herald.
"The key point is if we agree the actual implementation is going to be delayed, three months, five months...we need another plan," said committee Chairman Rich Moras.
The 2020-21 adopted budget calls for a $1 million loan from the general fund to the village's storm water fund in advance of the new storm water fee. Village leaders agreed to proceed with creating a storm water fee and will consider options in July, according to the Daily Herald. The implementation date will be reviewed monthly as COVID-19 measures change.
The engineering for the two storm water projects on track will still be kept on track, however. According to Public Works Director Paul Kendzior, design contracts will be presented to the board in a month or so.
On Rockland Road, the next phase to install and connect larger storm sewers to a new main line already in place is on track. Larger storm sewers and more water storage is planned for the Highlands, added the Daily Herald.
