Unfinished Business: Stormwater Management Discussion
Board President Kubiesa stated that since the August 14th Park Board meeting where the City of Elmhurst and Burke Engineering presented the stormwater management plan, a committee has been formed, at the request of Mayor Morley, comprised of representatives from the three entities involved - City of Elmhurst Aldermen Dannee Polomsky and Jim Kennedy, District 205 School Board members Shannon Ebner and Chris Blum, and Park Board Commissioners Spaeth and Howard. The stormwater committee meeting date has not been set in order to allow for committee members to meet with their corresponding boards to gain feedback. Board President Kubiesa reminded the Board that their allegiance is to the Park District.
The Board discussed each proposed site to gain a consensus to provide direction to Commissioners Howard and Spaeth. The park sites in the City's proposal are York Commons, East End Park, Golden Meadows, and Wild Meadows Trace along Seminole Avenue west of York Road. The Board reached a consensus on the following:
- Pioneer Park's soccer field not be used, the Seminole Avenue area to remain in consideration, following consideration of the use of the former Brown's Chicken property
- Consideration needs to be given to using underground water storage in York Commons parking lot. Cayuga Avenue resident concerns need to be addressed. Is the use of Van Voorst a possible part of the solution?
- An evaluation of the Elmhurst Hosptital site needs to take place before any discussion as to the potential use of Golden Meadows or East End parks can commence.
The Board stated that development resulting in an increase in impervious surfaces has contributed to stormwater quantity. The proposed detention areas will not entirely stop the flooding in homes, the issue requires the City develop community support through implementation of education strategies to make an impact and prevent stormwater problems from escalating. As sufficient direction was given to stormwater committee members Commissioners Spaeth and Howard, the discussion ended until an update is available.
