It was time to sit down with Carbon County Commissioner Casey Hopes to discuss what is taking place at the county. This week’s topic had to do possible flooding issues and the services the County offers citizens.
“With all this snow, we’re in a really good situation as far as water is concerned. Things seem to be quiet, we have some positive growth going on, we still have issues that we’re dealing with housing and making sure we have enough jobs for people, stuff like that, but things overall are pretty positive,” said Commissioner Hopes. The county would like to remind folks that with Spring like conditions appearing it’s important to be prepared for possible flooding issues in or around your home/neighborhood.
Right now, is a great time to prepare for flood-like conditions that you may have faced in years past. “So, the ground is super saturated because of all the snow that we had all winter long, now its mostly melted in and will continue to melt into the ground. There’s standing water everywhere so if we do get a rain event of any size it could cause some problems. So if you had, that’s our concern, if you’ve had flooding issues into your home or on your property somewhere, and you haven’t addressed those drainage issues, now’s that time to go get some sandbags from Sutherlands or Howa’s or one of the other hardware stores around town. We have some sandbag stations out at County Event Center, its just south of the enclosed barn, and you can go fill up sandbags, you can protect those areas,” said Commissioner Hopes. The earlier you prepare the less headache and damage one will face during flooding if it occurs.
In emergency situations, the county has been busily preparing for such incidents. “We do have sandbags that are on pallets and ready to go. We’re trying to make sure we have those if there’s a major flood event and we have to build a dyke to divert water somewhere. So if it’s an emergency, we have some sandbags, but if its preparation, please prepare. Get some sandbags, kind of take control of your destiny, and try and divert the water where you can,” stated Commissioner Hopes. It’s not a bad idea to check out the gutters near and around your home to make sure they are clear of debris.
If you have a neighbor that is unable to prepare for flooding you may want to lend a helping hand to assist them this year. “We are such an amazing community with caring people. If you can’t do it physically yourself, and your concerned, I’m sure there’s a church group or any other group or a neighbor or somebody that would be willing to help. If you can’t find somebody, call me, I’ll come help and I’m sure that’s the same way with any of the other Commissioners or even the County Staff. We’ll find someone to come and help you take care of these issues, so they don’t become a problem and cause damage later,” said Commissioner Hopes.
The commissioners want community members to know that they have an open-door policy and if you have concerns or questions to please stop by their office at 751 East 100 North or call them at (435) 636-3200.