Stormwater basins: Once Beautiful Assets.
'Pond D' near tennis courts
This was once a beautiful reflecting pond which homeowners could walk around. Now the pond is mostly drained, ecologically dead, and surrounded by invasive species, due to lack of upkeep and repairs by BCHOA. The overflow drain is in need of repair and the pond should be aerated.
Picture from September 19, 2024.
Improper maintenance
Retention berms serve as dams for stormwater basins. In 2018 the city of Novi requested BCHOA to remove the few small saplings from the berm. Tree roots can cause berms to fail during storm events potentially causing flood damage. Repairs could cost 10's of thousands of dollars.
BCHOA refused to remove the small trees. Now the cost to do so will be substantially greater.
September 19, 2024
Improper maintenance
Retention basins are over-run by invasive species like Phragmites, which over time reduce stormwater capacity, increasing flood risk. Loose weeds can quickly clog basin drains during major rain events. Phragmites also present a fire risk. Studies show homes over-looking invasive weeds have lower resale value. BC is the only community in Novi with no plan to remove invasives.
Picture of Basin B from 7/31/2021
Improper maintenance
Dry Phragmites increases flood and fire risks. Picture of Basin B from December 9, 2024
Balfour Court Flood
In May of 2018 Balfour Court flooded when Phragmites clogged a drain. The City of Novi put BCHOA 'on notice' with several maintenance requests.
Nearly all of the city's requests were ignored.
Picture of Basin B inlet from May 2018
Contact Novi Department of Public Works
If you boarder a stormwater basin that is not being properly maintained, contact the city of Novi DPW.
Basin C
As a test project, Basin C was properly serviced in 2020 at a cost of $14,000.
Invasive species and scrub tress were removed.
Basin C was surveyed and found to have the proper rainwater capacity and proper drain functionality.
Unfortunately, no beautification plans were approved by BCHOA.
Native plants (primarily cattail) returned to the basin, and BCHOA was complemented for this project by the City of Novi.
Nature Trail
At one time, this bridge provided a scenic overlook to a marsh full of wildlife. Because Phragmites growth was ignored, most of the BC wetlands have been taken over by Phragmites. After complaints, BCHOA has finally began treating the weeds withing a few feet of the bridge. BCHOA has not announced plans to eradicate invasive species.
Picture from 12/9/2024