Public Meeting Planned to Discuss Tree Removals on Elk Grove Levees

The City of Elk Grove will host a public meeting on Wednesday, Feb. 6 to inform the community about tree, shrub and other vegetation removals on the levees near Stonelake Apartment Homes and Nottoli Park in Elk Grove.

City officials explain within approximately four miles of levees located in the area a portion of which has been determined not to meet federal requirements in accordance with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). Currently, there are trees, shrubs and plants located within a “vegetation-free zone” that could potentially compromise the structural integrity of the levees and impede flood-fighting and assistance efforts in the event of a natural disaster, according to City officials.

"Not complying with these regulations could jeopardize the City’s eligibility to receive rehabilitation assistance from USACE to rebuild a failed levee in the event of a natural disaster," according to a press statement released Tuesday. According to that release, the failure to rebuild the failed levee could ultimately lead to higher home and flood insurance premiums for homeowners and businesses in the area.

According to City officials the plan to remove the vegetation is also in an effort to "to ensure that the City’s levees are safe— protecting the public and their property— and to avoid losing eligibility in the USACE’s program."

If approved, the vegetation would be removed beginning in March.

A meeting has been scheduled for Wednesday, Feb. 6 at 6 p.m. at the Stonelake Apartment Homes Community Room, located at 10270 East Taron Drive in Elk Grove.

The meeting will include a presentation from City of Elk Grove Public Works officials and USACE representatives, according to the release. The meeting will also provide a forum for community members to ask questions and share concerns.  A project fact sheet is attached.

For more information contact Darren Wilson at dwilson@elkgrovecity.org or 916-627-3446.