Resident urges county and IDEM to resolve two-year drainage problem damaging roads

A lifelong Greene County resident told commissioners a drainage problem east of Brad Fields has lasted more than two years and is damaging roads and creating driving hazards, and he urged the county to press the Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) or seek other remedies.

Larry Barrett said he has been in contact with county staff and legal counsel about the backed-up water and asked what steps the public or county can take to move the matter forward. "It is not only ruining your roads... it is also a hazard to drivers," Barrett said, adding he has pursued IDEM involvement previously.

County officials responded that the area is within a natural watershed and that the county lacks clear legal authority to enter private property without owner consent or a court ruling. The chair said the county has contacted IDEM and continues to push for action but acknowledged the process can be slow.

Barrett urged continued pressure on IDEM and said he will seek public support through petitions if helpful. County staff advised that any direct county work off the right-of-way would require either written permission from the landowner or a legal determination allowing county action.