The Mill Valley City Council held a regular meeting on January 6, 2025, addressing significant community concerns following recent storms that caused flooding and power outages. Key discussions focused on the city's response to these emergencies and plans for future improvements.

During the meeting, council members highlighted the challenges faced during the storms, particularly in the Sycamore neighborhood, where a water main break just days before the storms exacerbated flooding issues. City officials reported that the storm resulted in unprecedented rainfall, with over seven inches recorded in a nine-hour period, leading to the failure of two out of three pumps at the Sycamore Pump Station. This failure contributed to the flooding, which caught many residents off guard.

City staff, including Public Works and emergency responders, worked diligently to address the situation. They coordinated efforts to ensure residents were safe, shutting off power to prevent surges and conducting door-to-door outreach to those affected. The council acknowledged the frustration expressed by residents and emphasized the importance of communication and transparency moving forward.

An after-action report is being prepared to analyze the events, identify lessons learned, and improve future responses. The report will address the unique circumstances of the flooding, the effectiveness of notifications, and the need for better community engagement. The council plans to hold a neighborhood meeting to introduce staff and foster relationships with residents.

In addition to addressing immediate concerns, the council discussed long-term flood control projects, including a $3 million investment in capital improvement projects over the next three to five years. These projects aim to enhance drainage systems and prevent similar flooding incidents in the future.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from city officials to improve communication strategies, including the use of Alert Moran for real-time notifications to residents. The council expressed its dedication to learning from this experience and ensuring the community's safety and preparedness for future storms.