The City of Yorkton is going to be taking a look at its underground drainage lines to ensure they are clear and ready to deal with an expected high spring run-off.
Trent Mandzuk, Director of Public Works told the regular meeting of Council Monday indicators are pointing to a very wet spring in the city.
"Last year Yorkton experienced the wettest fall on record. For 2011, snow accumulation is higher than average years. Saskatchewan Watershed Authority has indicated soil storage and surface retention areas are saturated. Present conditions create a high potential for flooding if a fast spring-melt occurs," detailed a report by Mandzuk circulated to Council Monday.
Mandzuk said to prepare for the run-off Public Works wants to ensure drainage lines are ready."Video inspection for the City's drainage study revealed significant debris remains within these systems following the recent flood. As a precautionary measure, Public Works wishes to conduct additional snow removal in attempt to prevent spring flooding. The Department also proposes video inspection of critical drainage mains. Administration and Associated Engineering identified areas prone to historical flooding and recommend these areas receive attention as soon as possible," stated the report.
However, the video inspection is not a cost covered in the current City budget.
"The Department wishes to conduct closed circuit inspections (CCTV) of key storm piping to verify its functionality. The estimated cost to inspect 7,000 meters of proposed pipeline is $40,000. These storm-sewers will be thoroughly cleaned during inspection," detailed Mandzuk's report.
As it stands "Yorkton spends an average of $60,000 on snow removal related to drainage. No money is spent on inspection of the City's storm system."
"Public Works proposes to spend an additional $30,000 on snow removal operations to help reduce loading on the drainage system."
Councillor Les Arnelien wanted to know if the video inspection costs might be eligible for new provincial dollars announced to deal with an expected wet spring.
Lonnie Kaal, Director of Finance with the City said that is something they are looking into, adding they plan "to get an application put together in that regard," with some expectation the camera work would be eligible.
Coun. Larry Pearen said the effort is something the public will see as positive.
"I think residents will be pleased with this," he said, adding it is a "proactive" effort by the City.
