During a recent city council meeting in Keizer, residents expressed urgent concerns regarding a beaver dam along Claggett Creek that has caused significant property damage and flooding. Property owners Loretta Zavala and Devin Kratzberger highlighted the ongoing issues stemming from the dam, which has led to water levels rising dangerously close to their homes, creating health hazards and threatening their property.

Zavala questioned the responsibility for the dam's removal, noting conflicting information from the city and the school district. She emphasized the need for immediate action, stating, \"We've been working on this for over a year,\" and described the dire conditions in her backyard, which has become nearly uninhabitable due to flooding.

City officials acknowledged the complexity of the situation, revealing that recent changes in state regulations regarding beaver protection have made it more challenging to address the issue. City Attorney Joe Lindsey explained that the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) now requires permits for dam removal, complicating the residents' efforts to alleviate the flooding.

Council members expressed their support for the residents, with Council President Shaney Starr emphasizing the need for a proactive approach to resolve the situation. \"We can't figure out how to stop the flooding because of a beaver,\" she remarked, urging city staff to expedite communication with state authorities to find a solution.

The council also discussed the potential for alternative methods to manage the beaver population humanely, as residents seek to avoid lethal measures. The city staff committed to advocating for the residents and facilitating communication with ODFW to explore viable options for addressing the flooding caused by the beaver dam.

In addition to the beaver dam discussion, the council addressed an event center fee waiver request for a candidate debate scheduled for October 22, 2024. The council unanimously supported waiving the fees, recognizing the debate as a significant benefit to the community. The event will be open to the public, allowing residents to engage with candidates running for local office.

As the meeting concluded, the urgency of the beaver dam issue remained a focal point, with residents and council members alike hopeful for a swift resolution to prevent further property damage and ensure the safety of the affected homeowners.