What can I do about the ditches that were made by the city near my house, leading to the river?

Question

My city recently had a street reconstruction project in which they "remodeled" an area where runoff water constantly built up. They created 2 ditches that connect to each other and then some cement piping that goes under a road. There is a road hazard because of the dropoff. They also moved the other side of the road down more so its right in between the 2 ditches therefore making it more easy to flood. When it rains the water flows right over the other side of the road. I have approached city officials about this and have got nothing done about it. They are going to do eminent domain on me because of the fact that I dont approve of the idea. It will threaten more homes then it originally did because the river is literally in my backyard and when it floods the water will backup into the ditches faster then it would have originally. Engineers argue that this isnt the case, but its self explanatory. They never obtained easements until after work was done. What can be done now?

Answer 1

I would consult a registered professional civil engineer and ask him to review the details and sit down with you and answer all your questions. If your engineer thinks that there is evidence that something was not correctly designed or constructed then you may wish to contact an attorney.

Answer 2

Maybe the Environmental Protection Agency, or the Equal Housing office in your area. They protect people against evil landlords and stuff--why not protect you against an evil city?

Also, get to know your neighbors and make sure you present your case along with theirs. One person is easier to strike down than a lot--so band together!

You don't know what can happen until you complain A LOT and make a huge stink over it. Write the papers, write your city council, write your local planning authority...write anybody with an address. Tell them that if they can't help you, then they should tell you who can. They might direct you to the right places just to get you off their backs.

Make a fuss! It's not fair that you have to, but if you get pushed in a corner, PUSH BACK!!!!

Fight the power!

Answer 3

Find yourself a lawyer that gives you the first 30 minutes for free and find out if the council is liable if your house gets flooded out, and if the answer is yes, send them a letter saying that if your house gets flooded because of their inadequate workmanship on the road, you will be suing them.

Answer 4

Call the mayor, get a petition going among your neigbors, write the newspapers and tv stations, see if a law clinic will give you free help, bug your local alderman...