'One Of Nicest Things We Do': Darien Mayor

DARIEN, IL – Residents on certain streets in Darien are the beneficiaries of backyard drainage projects – a longstanding city program.

The city said it receives complaints about drainage issues in backyards and easements. Such problems stem from active sump pumps, grading issues and mature landscaping, according to the city.

The areas stay waterlogged throughout the season. That makes it difficult to mow and maintain and further creates conditions for mosquito breeding. The city seeks to get rid of the "nuisance ponding."

The 11 projects include residents on parts of 67th Street, Windmere Court, Exner Road, Summit Road, Drover Lane, Gilbert Court, Hemlock Lane, 71st Street, Comstock Lane, Nantucket Drive, Emerson Drive, Whittier Drive, Stevens Street, Williams Street, Dawn Lane, Green Valley Road and Wakefield Drive.

"These are 11 solid projects that are affecting our residents," Alderman Joe Kenny said at Monday's City Council meeting. "It's not a frivolous expense in my estimation."

Mayor Joseph Marchese agreed.

"This is one of the nicest things we do for our residents," the mayor said. "(The residents) have some skin in the game here. It's not something for free. It improves their personal property and, in effect, improves the city."

The council unanimously approved this year's program. Alderman Eric Gustafsson was absent.