Aldermen press staff on constituent still in hotel after sewer work problems

Alderman Rockford raised a constituent case in unfinished business, asking staff to follow up on a woman who remains living in a hotel after sewer work in the north end of town allegedly damaged her house.

Director Fuchsy told the council the city has been "trying to work with Miss Lee as she goes through the collection process through an insurer that's not the city," and that the city has acted as an intermediary while the contractor's insurance handles liability. Aldermen urged faster follow-up and asked staff to determine whether city resources (including short-term grants or TIF funds) could assist the resident.

Council members expressed concern about the length of time the family has been displaced. "Fifteen, 16 months with 4 kids in a hotel room...it's really a shame," Alderman Gregory said. Staff said they will continue to coordinate with the insurer and council offices and will provide additional follow-up to those aldermen who raised the case.