Several landowners were on hand for open forum on Tuesday morning questioning what is being done with Lake Elsie. Those present felt the rates charged on their taxes were quite high in comparison for what’s been done with CD 17. Spokesperson questioned the $22,000-$24,000 worth of repairs to be done yet. The levy the board set was $50,211.00 which was based on bills which had been paid as well as anticipation of those to come. The landowners questioned why they should be charged for the removal of the tree line as was discussed as a way of alleviating some of the flooding problem due to the tile that runs underneath of it. The group feels there’s been a lot of money spent and the tile isn’t even unplugged. The City of Slayton actually pays 68% of the cost of this ditch according to the officials. Chairperson Thiner spoke, “We try to make the assessments as fair and equitable as possible. There are ditch viewers and you could do a re-determination if you want. However, that costs money as well.” The group questioned what the future repairs will be with the $50,000 levied for the ditch. The City of Slayton did dig north of the trees to try and bypass the roots in hopes of reducing the water level according to Commissioner Kluis. Auditor/Treasurer Winter shared the ditch had been in the hole which was part of the reason for the levy amount. Commissioner Thiner reminded the residents one of the proposals for helping the situation was well over $100,000. “We opted to go with a cheaper solution,” he said. “By law we have to maintain this and look for the most economical way to help the situation.” Travis Radke, ditch inspector shared information from the January 23rd meeting which stated the plan is to replace the water level control structure on the south end, install new high water level intake in the north part of Lake Elsie along with cutting out a 40 to 50 foot swath of trees, dig up existing 18” tile under trees and open it up (which has already been done by the City). If the tile is bad, it will be replaced along with fixing the south outlet tile. To do this work the cost estimated at $15,000 to $25,000. Commissioner Thiner questioned whether the county had authorized the city the authority to dig. Commissioner Kluis said he was contacted and gave them the ok as it was coming up on the business and we have to protect the businesses there.”
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