The McMinnville Board of Zoning Appeals and Regional Planning Commission convened on February 23, 2025, to discuss various zoning matters, including a proposal concerning water and sewer infrastructure. The meeting highlighted significant community concerns regarding water management and drainage issues in the area.

The discussion began with a presentation on the specifications of a new water line, which is set to be six inches in diameter, alongside an eight-inch sewer line. City officials confirmed that all requirements for the project were met, prompting an invitation for public comments.

Timothy Nicholl, a resident of 116 Garfield, expressed his deep concerns about the city’s handling of water remediation, particularly during heavy rainfall events. He recounted past incidents where excessive rain led to flooding in his yard, raising questions about the adequacy of the city’s drainage systems. Nicholl criticized the city for not hiring a civil engineer to assess water management before proceeding with the project, emphasizing that previous drainage improvements have not effectively mitigated flooding.

Nicholl's concerns extended to the proposed construction, which he feared would exacerbate existing drainage problems by paving over fields and building close to property lines. He questioned how the city planned to manage stormwater runoff and protect neighboring properties from flooding. He also raised issues regarding the potential loss of trees that could impact water retention.

In response, board members acknowledged Nicholl's concerns but clarified that their primary role was to evaluate the zoning aspects of the proposal, not the engineering details. They assured him that stormwater management would be addressed during the permit application process, which would involve a civil engineer's review.

The meeting concluded with a reminder that while the board could not directly address all of Nicholl's concerns, they would be taken into account as the project moves forward. The board emphasized their commitment to ensuring that any new developments comply with zoning regulations while also considering community feedback on water management issues.