Rapid Response: Protecting Residents During Overnight Flooding at Lakeland Village

The water levels reached about two feet in some places in the laundry complex parking lot the night of Feb. 23.

On the night of Feb. 23, heavy rains and melting snow combined created a challenging situation at Lakeland Village, a DSHS’ residential habilitation center for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Medical Lake. As stormwater surged into nearby gullies, it overflowed into the west side of campus, flooding the laundry building’s parking lot, covering roadways, and creeping toward a resident cottage and several other buildings.

Thanks to the swift activation of the Lakeland Village Incident Management Team and cottage staff, residents and staff remained safe throughout the night. As water levels rose, the team closely monitored the situation, ensuring that residents in the affected cottage were safely evacuated to another building as a precautionary measure. Staff worked diligently to comfort and reassure those impacted, ensuring their needs are met in the temporary relocation.

Early Monday, Feb. 24, the Consolidated Support Services crew, part of the Maintenance and Operations Division within DSHS’ Facilities, Finance and Analytics Administration, was fully engaged in the recovery efforts. Their top priorities included removing the thick mud left behind by the floodwaters and keeping storm drains open to prevent further flooding. Their quick and coordinated response helped minimize disruptions to daily operations. As cleaning efforts continue throughout the week, residents will remain in their temporary cottages and return to their home cottages as soon as conditions allow.

The crew operates heavy equipment to remove mud and debris.

Incidents like these highlight the importance of strong coordination and collaboration across multiple teams. From facilities management and direct care staff to emergency responders and administrative leadership, the ability to work together efficiently ensures smooth and effective recovery. Diverse perspectives and expertise strengthen response efforts, allowing for creative problem-solving and a well-organized approach to crisis management. By fostering a culture of teamwork and preparedness, DSHS can continue to protect our residents and maintain a safe, supportive environment, even in the face of unexpected challenges.

“I was so impressed with CSS and the staff and residents,” said Tim Gerlitz, superintendent at Lakeland Village Residential Habilitation Center. “I also want to thank CSS and Jay Paulson and his crew for keeping the storm drains open under the most difficult circumstances.”

Gerlitz notes that staff have gone above and beyond their call of duty. For example, the facility’s housekeeping staff have been shoveling mud off the cottage sidewalks and in others’ basements by hand.

“Thank you to our PBX (switchboard) team, our residential services coordinators (direct care staff schedulers), and the housekeeping department!” Gerlitz continued praising.

The crew continues removing accumulated mud and debris.

The Lakeland and CSS teams have worked tirelessly to protect residents, clean up the campus, and make necessary repairs. This incident showcases our staff’s dedication and preparedness, highlighting their quick and effective response to unexpected challenges. Thank you to everyone involved in keeping our staff and community safe.