A stormwater system lawsuit against Fayetteville is advancing as homeowners seek remedies for persistent flooding damage.
Next Steps in Stormwater System Lawsuit
A group of Fayetteville homeowners associations has won an appeal in their stormwater system lawsuit. The lawsuit alleges the city’s inadequate stormwater management has worsened lake and dam damage in their neighborhoods. Residents say major storms cause heavy flooding, turning roads into rivers, worsening sand buildup, and bringing excessive trash.
Four homeowners associations — Rayconda, Arran Lakes, Strickland Bridge, and Devonwood-Loch Lomond — filed the lawsuit, attributing intensified flooding to Hurricane Matthew’s damage. They argue that Fayetteville should repair its stormwater infrastructure, especially its stormwater pipes and flow control systems, to prevent future destruction and potential loss of life.
Legal representatives for the residents express urgency. They cite severe damage or property loss risks if the city fails to address the issue before future hurricanes.
Fayetteville city officials have refrained from commenting on the ongoing litigation. And disputes continue over whether the city or the residents should bear the financial responsibility for damages, including those affecting surrounding streets like Siple Avenue.
Homeowners insist they pay annual stormwater taxes, expecting the city to provide proper stormwater management. They remain determined to see the lawsuit through unless the city agrees to improvements.
Legal representatives for the homeowners indicate they are ready to return to the trial court, with options to escalate the case to the state supreme court. However, they remain open to negotiations if the city commits to stormwater upgrades to address residents’ concerns.
