Hole Found in Base of Garvey Reservoir

Divers have discovered a hole one foot in diameter that extends at least six feet into the 10-foot-thick clay liner at the base of the Garvey Reservoir in Monterey Park.

For more than two weeks residents near the 41-acre reservoir have complained of flooding in their yards and basements. As a result of Monday’s discovery, the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California announced it will drain the reservoir by today and begin repairing the crack and any other damage that is uncovered.

So far, city officials said, at least 13 houses have been damaged by water. The city has installed water pumps at six houses, but no one has had to leave home because of the flooding, said City Manager Mark Lewis. Monterey Park officials said they are still pressing the water district on the issue of liability.