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Task force proposes solutions in wake of canal break

Posted at 10:28 PM, Jun 11, 2013
and last updated 2013-06-12 00:28:08-04

MURRAY, Utah – A task force in Murray is looking to address problems caused by a canal breach that flooded several homes and caused tens of thousands of dollars in damages in April.

City officials said they believe the canal break was caused by a combination of burrowing animals, erodible soils and other factors.

City officials said their plan is to install a $1.8 million synthetic liner in the canal. They also want to install mesh to keep animals from burrowing.

Some residents who live near the canal, like Mary Archibold, said the city should take their time and do their homework before spending money on the project.

“Do your studies first before you spend the money to make the fix because it may not be the correct fix,” she said. “If it is, then that’s wonderful and we’ll all be thrilled, and if it’s not then that’s going to be $2 million wasted and that seems foolish.”

The task force is made up of city council members, the city attorney and residents of the impacted neighborhood as well as a representative from the company that owns the canal. The task force is scheduled to meet again in three weeks.

Related story: Video: Canal break causes canal flooding in Murray