We all remember the major flooding in August 2023 and again this past April 2025. Families and businesses were hit hard, and many of us are still worried about what happens the next time we get heavy rain.
May 5th City Commission Meeting
At the May 5 City Commission meeting, a number of business owners and residents spoke about their concerns. I was the first to make citizen comments, which starts 6 minutes and 15 seconds into the video, and ten others followed with their own experiences and questions. Following public comments, the Mayor responded, and then the City Manager talked about the history of flooding in the city. You can watch the video by clicking on this link: City Commission Meeting Video.
But as many of us felt that evening, the biggest question remains: What is the City actually doing to prevent this from happening again?
What Has Been Done
The City has completed stormwater fixes as part of road projects over the years, and has recently installed rain gardens in several locations. Municipal Services continues to keep the main drain that runs under the city clear. Since the May 5th meeting:
- The City has created a flooding information page.
- City Staff met with County officials and a group called Floodwise.
- The City sent the County information on tube condition.
- The County is lining up contractors to repair cracked drainage tubes.
These are positive steps, but one big piece is still missing: there still hasn’t been a public informational meeting where residents can ask questions and get straight answers. The City has said a session will be scheduled once the Floodwise report is ready, but in the meantime, people are left wondering what’s happening and when.
Interesting Article
This isn’t just a Plymouth problem. Heavy rains have been overwhelming stormwater systems in nearby communities as well. I found this article about how Dearborn is upgrading its stormwater systems that’s worth a read: How Dearborn is improving stormwater systems to prevent future floods.
As I run for City Commission, one of my priorities is ensuring more open conversations with residents on big issues like flooding. People deserve to know what’s being done, what the challenges are, and how we can work together on solutions.
Were you impacted or do you have a question related to this issue? Leave a comment below.
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