Jasper Stormwater Board Reviews Impact of 100-Year Rain Event

Recent flooding, development activity and stormwater program updates led the agenda at Monday’s Jasper Stormwater Management Board meeting. 

Stormwater Coordinator Chad said there were five rain events last month, with the June 26-27 storm classified as a “100-year rain event.” Mundy shared photos of the flooding from that storm with the board, noting that the city’s storm systems are designed for “25-year” events, and flooding is to be expected when rains exceed that. River encroachment at the Riverwalk path, which is in a flood plain, was especially evident. 

Mundy reviewed the building permits for ERU calculations, which funds the Stormwater program. There was a total of 6 ERUs which were approved by the board. In the IDEM Monthly Report, there were 5 permitted sites. These included North Ridge Estates, Park Place, Cathy Lane, Brookstone Estates VII, and Jasper High School. Two other sites, North Ridge Estates II and Archangel Addition, are permitted but have not yet begun work. Two City of Jasper sites, the Wellness Center and Jasper Substation, are also active. 

In Illicit Discharge and Spills, the 15 th Street issue was resolved. The sump pump was discharging soapy water into the storm drain, and a small onsite correction brought the site into compliance. An accident on US 231 in front of Walmart resulted in an illicit spill from fluid that were released from the engine. The materials were absorbed and removed by Street Department and Stormwater staff. On 30 th Street, Street Department staff reported an issue near the Nancy Baer Trucking Corporation building, which was converted into residential rentals. An unidentified black material was present in the storm drain, which had been reported years ago. The department will continue to investigate the source and communicate with residents about safe practices. 

In IDEM updates, preparations are underway for the August 19 program audit. Outfall inspections are almost complete, and reports are in progress. All department sites have had their Good Housekeeping and Pollution Prevention inspection, both in the office and on the grounds. For public education, the contractor workshop is in development. It will be held January 28, and will be an annual event moving forward. Future certification based on the workshop is being discussed for future implementation. 

For more information on these and other updates, visit jasperindiana.gov or JasperGov-Indiana on Facebook.


- By Drew Hasselbring