People in Bolsa Knolls prepare for flooding ahead of wet weather near the end of the week

BOLSA KNOLLS, Calif. (KION-TV) -- In Bolsa Knolls, residents are gearing up for another round of heavy rain expected this week, with many taking proactive measures like filling sandbags to protect their homes. The local community is concerned about the ongoing risks of flooding as they brace for more severe weather.

The county has made sand stockpiles available near the intersection of Russell Road and Eisenhower Street for residents to use. However, many in the area fear that the efforts made by county officials aren't enough to prevent the serious flooding that has plagued them in the past. A key point of contention among residents is the continued blockage of the Santa Rita Creek, which they say is due to silt accumulation, causing a slowdown of water flow. Many are frustrated by the county's restrictions, which they claim prevent timely action.

The county, saying that permits by state and federal agencies are preventing proper cleanup along some areas of Little Bear Creek, also say that they are clearing all the areas in their purview.

According to the county, they are currently working on a drainage study to find solutions for the creek that runs through multiple properties and is managed by various entities that include private and agriculture owners.

"The drainage study was approved last fall but we didn't want to wait until the rainy season ended, so we're currently doing it now," said Maia Carroll from the County of Monterey. "We're hoping to be done with the study in early summer."

Monica Maciel, a resident directly impacted by the flooding, shared her concerns. "This is the worst it's been," she said. "If it's going to continue getting into the house because the creek can't hold that much, it's going to keep impacting us. I want them to hurry up and get those permits, or whatever it needs to be. Why does it take that long? It shouldn't take that long."

Maciel, who has recently experienced floodwaters entering her home, was forced to take time off work to manage the damages. With the rainy season expected to persist, she and many others in the community are calling on community leaders to take swift action and address the issue, particularly the challenges posed by regulatory hurdles.

As heavy rain looms, residents continue to watch the situation closely, hoping for quicker intervention before the next round of flooding strikes.