Jasper Stormwater Department Balances Construction, Compliance Ahead of Audit

On Monday, Jasper’s Stormwater Management Board discussed new construction, permit compliance, and Strassenfest preparations while gearing up for its upcoming state audit. 

City Engineer Chad Hurm told the board that no quotes have been received for the storm sewer project at Lions Club Park. Several contractors expressed that the original time frame for completion was not possible for them, so it has been extended and new bid packets will be sent out. 

In his monthly update, Stormwater Coordinator Chad Mundy presented 4 new ERUs, which were approved as presented. There were 5 active sites in the IDEM monthly report. North Ridge Estates is making good progress, with houses and condos taking shape. Park Place is almost complete, Cathy Lane Stockpile will stay open, and houses are going up at Brookstone Estates VII. Jasper High School and the city-owned Wellness Center are also busy sites with erosion controls measures in place. 

The IDEM Program Audit will be August 19, and Mundy said that all required work has been completed. Documentation will be compiled over the next week in preparation for the onsite visit, and the results will be reported at the next meeting. Mundy said that while he expects a positive outcome, this permit cycle has been unique in that multiple projects and state legislative changes increased the workload of the Stormwater Department. 

The Southwestern Indiana Stormwater Partnership meeting was on July 15, which reviewed the next permitting cycle, annual reports, audits, and other compliance-related topics. The next meeting will be August 26. 

The board heard about the impact of Strassenfest on the Stormwater department. Booth vendors receive training on proper disposal of items and are specifically cautioned about disposing of certain substances down storm drains. Mundy does a pre-inspection to find any issues ahead of the event. Some common problems involve issues with hydraulic hoses in the ride area and items that could be spilled. He also inspects inlet filters, which are installed by the Street Department every year. The department was recently recognized with an award from the State for their Strassenfest preparation, after having been nominated by a partnership member.  

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


- By Drew Hasselbring