Family says city sewer
system is a stinker
When Foster Village residents Susan and Bernard Bisch hear the heavy rain, they sleep with one eye open, one ear open -- and their noses wide open.
On Friday, their house was hit with the third sewage backflow in the past three months.
"It's definitely frustrating," said Bisch.
During the heavy rains in December and January, sewage and water backed up through their toilet and flooded bedrooms, ruined carpets and damaged furniture.
Susan Bisch said she and her husband had filed three claims with the city after their home at 1702 Piikea St. suffered damage estimated at $10,000. The smell was so unbearable they had to stay with relatives while the house was cleaned up.
The most recent incident occurred about 3:30 p.m. Friday, when a cement cap on a sewer line near their driveway blew off. About four inches of feces and sewer water covered their driveway, Bisch said.
"At least it didn't go through the house this time," she added.
City workers cleared their driveway the following day.
The Bisches have replaced their carpet and furniture, including a dresser, nightstand, entertainment center and bed that were damaged earlier.
Bisch said she was told by the city that the problem would be fixed within a year-and-a-half.
"Do we just keep filing claims and be inconvenienced for malfunction on their part?" she asked.
City spokeswoman Carol Costa said the city is aware of the problem.