Residents demand urgent action on sewage crisis

Residents of Ogdensburg voiced urgent concerns regarding persistent sewage issues during a recent city council meeting, attributing the problems to inadequate infrastructure following the Patterson Street project. Multiple homeowners reported severe flooding and raw sewage backups in their basements, which they claim have worsened since the project’s completion.

One resident highlighted that the sewage problems are not isolated to individual properties but are a city-wide issue, exacerbated by the design of the new drainage system that funnels stormwater and sewage into a single pipe. This design has led to significant health hazards, with untreated sewage entering homes during heavy rains. The resident expressed frustration over the lack of accountability, stating, “Somebody's got to take accountability for it,” and emphasized that homeowners should not bear the financial burden of these issues.

Another homeowner, Marlene Shaver, shared her experience of dealing with sewage backups for over 20 years, noting that a previously approved grant for repairs had insufficient funding to address the ongoing problems. She criticized the city’s response to her calls for help, stating, “Nobody answered, of course,” and called for action to rectify the situation.

Residents also raised concerns about the city’s handling of grant funds and the need for more effective solutions. Many expressed a willingness to pay higher taxes or fees if it meant ensuring proper sewage management and preventing future flooding. “I want to know what your solution is,” one resident demanded, highlighting the urgency of the situation.

The meeting underscored a growing frustration among residents who feel neglected and unsafe in their homes due to inadequate city infrastructure. As the council considers these issues, the community is calling for immediate action to address the sewage crisis and improve the overall health and safety of Ogdensburg’s neighborhoods.