Residents fear drainage problems could cause floods

By By Fredie Carmichael / staff writer
July 18, 2003
Nan Casciaro worries every time it rains.
And lately, Casciaro, owner of Antique Mall in south Meridian, said her worry has turned into anger. She said the city of Meridian has failed to fix a clogged drain in front of her business on U.S. 145, just south of Interstate 20/59.
The problem, she said, has caused rain water to collect on the highway and eventually spill over inches from her antiques that are displayed in front of her store.
Casciaro is one of several residents who have complained to city officials the past few months about drainage and other problems since a spate of recent storms struck the area.
Monty Jackson, the city's public works director, said his department is overloaded with projects.
Ward 5 Councilman Bobby Smith said he's been bombarded with calls from constituents who have similar problems from recent storms.
Smith, whose district includes Casciaro's business, said the public works department is behind and has a manpower shortage.
Whatever the problem is, Casciaro said she just hopes it gets solved soon.