Wastewater Superintendent Scott Ross and Engineer Glen Spears were present to provide technical explanations and field updates, with the City Manager JR WIlson emphasizing the city's commitment to resolving the problem and maintaining compliance with its permit. Spears noted that recent smoke testing revealed a number of defects, primarily located in private service lines, which contribute substantially to the I&I problem.
Staff explained that manholes with turns or junctions, where multiple lines meet, are prone to flow resistance and backups, which can lead to overflows, especially during large rainfall events. A resident raised a concern over the city's installation of an anti-backflow valve on his property, arguing the problem originated in the city's main line, not his private service. The board agreed to allow the city's surveyor to measure the elevation of the property's slab to determine the correct height relative to the sewer lines. To see the full report and more from this meeting, visit the City of Hope's Facebook page to watch.
Further financial matters were settled as the 2025 City Budget was approved. The approved budget includes a $750 salary increase for all city employees, and the city will review sales tax receipts around mid-year to potentially fund a further increase. In a separate resolution, the board approved a new agreement with Hempstead County to split District Court costs and filing fees 50/50 between the city and county, a measure allowed under new state law to support local court-level programs.
In other business, the board reviewed updates and additions to the city’s condemned structures list. Code Enforcement Officer Jennifer Ghormley reported which structures have now been demolished because of severe disrepair, abandonment, and safety hazards, as well as any structures that needed to be added to the list. She also shared progress regarding other structures as several owners have made contact with the city and are in the process of contracting demolition or clean-up work.
Regarding other city initiatives, a request to rezone a 13-acre parcel to R-3 (Residential) was approved, clearing the way for a multi-family development. Bids for the new Recreation and Aquatic Center are scheduled to open next Tuesday, which is anticipated to provide financial clarity for the project. The closing on the buying of the property on East Third, the former Village Shopping Center at the S-curve has been delayed until the first of the year at the owner's request. The city has decided to place the new Hope Fire Department headquarters there.
Willtech Enterprises was selected to provide audio/visual consulting for the Recreation and Aquatic Center, and staff is currently negotiating with the low bidder for the Pickleball Court project to reduce the scope of work and bring the cost within an acceptable range before presenting a final recommendation to the Board.
Watch the full meeting at the City of Hope's Facebook page.