FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CLIFTON, NJ — Effective flood prevention requires understanding how drainage conditions affect entire neighborhoods, not simply addressing isolated problems after severe weather.
Tafari K. Anderson, candidate for Clifton City Council, is calling for a coordinated approach to drainage maintenance and flood mitigation in areas associated with Weasel Brook.
“When water repeatedly threatens homes and neighborhood streets, government must look beyond temporary repairs and develop lasting solutions,” Anderson stated.
Anderson proposes reviewing existing drainage studies, maintenance practices, and planned capital improvements to identify opportunities for more effective flood prevention.
He believes the City should coordinate with relevant county and state agencies, neighboring jurisdictions where appropriate, and property owners affected by drainage conditions.
The proposed review would examine stormwater conveyance capacity, debris removal, infrastructure deterioration, and locations where runoff contributes to recurring problems.
Anderson supports publishing findings in accessible language, with prioritized recommendations and estimated project costs.
He also advocates pursuing available stormwater and resilience grants before placing additional financial obligations on Clifton taxpayers.
“Good planning means identifying the causes of flooding, understanding which agencies are responsible, and making sure public money produces measurable improvements,” Anderson said.
Residents should have opportunities to submit documented flooding concerns and receive updates about corrective actions.
“Neighborhood flood protection should not depend on political attention after the next major storm,” Anderson concluded. “It should be part of a responsible, long-term infrastructure strategy.”
Paid for by Friends for Tafari Anderson.