(Published in the McAlester News-Capital on November 22nd, 2016.) NOTICE OF EXPLANATION OF PROJECT IN A FLOODPLAIN The Town of Canadian has determined there is not a practical alternative to locating the proposed Community Development Block Grant project described below in a flood-prone area. The Federal funding (CDBG funds from Oklahoma Department of Commerce) is for completion of a sewer system rehab project. The Town of Canadian is under an ODEQ Administrative Consent Order for unpermitted discharges. They are having problems with overflows and unpermitted discharges during heavy rainfall due to excessive inflow and infiltration of storm water. The Town owns and operates an extended aeration mechanical Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP). Unit # 1 located in the WWTP is currently not in operation. It needs to be replaced to come into ODEQ compliance. The collection system is comprised mostly of clay tile sewer lines that are cracked and broken and allow inflow and infiltration to the system. The proposed project also includes the wastewater treatment plant improvements, replacement of existing sewer main and manholes, and surface repairs. The project will be constructed within the existing WWTP area and the sewer line installed in existing utility right of ways. The project is located in S 7&18, T8N, R16E in Canadian, Pittsburg County, OK. The WWTP is located in the 100 year floodplain and a portion of the sewer main is located in the 100 year floodplain. The project as proposed will not have an adverse effect on the floodplains and the activities regarding construction will be completed in a manner that would not adversely affect flooding. There will be no increase in flood hazard. No natural or manmade drainage channels will be disturbed. The improvements must be located in a flood-prone area because there is no practicable alternative to the proposed project. The proposed action will not affect natural or beneficial floodplain values as improvements will be to an existing sewer system which is already located in the floodplain. The sewer lines are underground. It would be cost prohibitive to relocate the sewer main and the WWTP identified in the floodplain area. Failure to provide these improvements would result in a negative impact to the citizens of the Town of Canadian because the Town would not be in compliance with ODEQâs Consent Order. It is the Townâs judgment that the benefits of the proposed activity out-weigh any negative impact and the determination to expend Federal funds in the floodplain is justified. By the publishing of this notice, the Town of Canadian is inviting any final comments prior to undertaking the proposed action. All comments should be addressed to Luann Dugan, Mayor, Town of Canadian 302 NE Tignor Canadian, OK 74425 on or before November 30, 2016. Luann Dugan, Mayor
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