UTICA, NY – Last year’s Halloween storms caused significant flood damage throughout the area, including South Utica.

Residents there say flooding has become a growing problem over the years and they’re getting fed up.

Utica Councilwoman Celeste Friend held an informational meeting Tuesday at The Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties to address those concerns.

State and local officials were on hand to answer questions from residents and get their feedback.

Friend says she hopes meetings like this will keep residents informed about the efforts that are being taken to mitigate flooding in South Utica and the surrounding communities.

“We can’t wave a magic wand and make the flooding stop. There are things that we are already doing though. In the city, in the county, and cooperatively with other municipalities. Those things are already happening and I’m really glad to share those efforts with people.”

State and local officials say they are doing the best they can to resolve the flooding issues in the area, but reminded residents they have to make sure those efforts don’t cause flooding problems for somebody else.