The Ohio Department of Natural Resources told News 5 that the City of Massillon had more than 26 years of notice to fix issues with the Sippo Creek Reservoir Dam before the state set its March 27 deadline.
In a letter dated Feb. 21, ODNR told the city’s Parks and Recreation Department that the more than 100-year-old structure “poses a high risk to downstream human life and property.”
The state is now requiring public safety officials to begin lowering the lake level immediately or take other actions to bring the dam into compliance.
Inspection reports obtained by News 5 show that there have been five inspections at the dam since 1991. In that first inspection, several repairs, maintenance and monitoring items were listed.
“Overall, the condition of this dam is questionable,” the 1991 report said, citing erosion and “a severely inadequate spillway.”
But the most recent inspection in 2015 revealed that no progress had been made in 26 years, according to ODNR.
Issues included the repair of erosion gullies on the downstream slope. Multiple tests were also ordered for the spillway and lake drain valve.
“These items have been noted previously and the appropriate time period for completion has already been exceeded,” the June 16, 2015 inspection report read.
While all dams are required by the ODNR to complete an emergency action plan in accordance with OAC Rule 1501:21-21-04, a spokesperson told News 5 that Sippo Creek Reservoir Dam does not have an emergency action plan.
The City’s Director of Public Safety and Service did not respond to News 5 requests about the plan.
“We are meeting with contractors this week to discuss options to lower the water level by 4 feet per the order,” Director Joel Smith said in an email.
Information will be presented to the City Council on Monday.
