Flooding problems near Port Robinson Road and Cataract Road could leave Thorold property owners swimming in more than $600,000 worth of repairs.

The hefty price tag comes from one of six options to repair the Singers Corners municipal drain, presented by Thorold's acting director of operations Phill Lambert during a council meeting on July 8.

Lambert told council the most effective solution would be to expand and oversize Singers Drain, which stretches across 2,280 acres in Thorold, Pelham and Welland.

He said that expanding the drain could allow for more flow of storm water during intense, heavy rainfall.

However, any property owners who benefit from the changes to the drain will have to cover the $600,000 cost, as stipulated in the Drainage Act.

The Singers Corners drainage area became a municipal drain back in 1999 as a solution to problems with flooding in the areas of Port Robinson Road and Merrittville Highway by diverting the water north of the intersection.

More than 300 property owners in Thorold paid their share of $300,000 to create the drain, while residents of Pelham and Welland also contributed to the cost.

In order for improvements on the drain to begin, a petition must be signed by most of the landowners in the area or by residents who own at least 60 per cent of the drainage area's acreage.

Coun. Jonathan LePera suggested holding a public meeting for residents in the Port Robinson Road area to address the issue.

He also urged councillors to make a trip through the area next time a heavy rainstorm washes through the city.

"Some people get to read a book when it rains. These people panic."