Debris pick-up, damage assessments continue in Watseka

Iroquois County residents busy with flood clean-up are reminded to do business with reputable people you’re familiar with; inspections by professionals are required. Damage assessment teams were busy over the weekend and efforts will continue this week.

Questions can be directed to the Iroquois County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) 815-432-6997.

Flood victims. despite any urgency to clean-up and make repairs, are reminded about how important it is to follow protocol. The damage assessments become ever so important in gathering accurate information in any attempt to apply for federal aid.

Professional and volunteer groups are assisting with clean-up.

Watseka Mayor John Allhands insists that residents be aware of FEMA regulations. It can be an involved-process ---reason why the damage assessments are critical before repairs are made.

A pink-colored notice was posted over the weekend at any residence within the flood zone where officials did not find a anyone home. Mayor Allhands says “this does not mean the site is condemned.” He explains, ‘because the building is in a floodplain and was damaged by flooding, a damage assessment must be conducted by the City of Watseka.’

‘Before occupying the building or making any repairs, the City of Watseka’s Zoning Department must be contacted to schedule an inspection.’ Call City Hall at 815-432-2711.
The pink notice states, ‘failure to obtain a re-construction approval form from the city may result in a penalty.’

The pink notice DOES NOT MEAN THE PROPERTY IS CONDEMNED.

Four damage assessment teams are in town including the City of Watseka, Illinois EMA, Red Cross. A Rapid Response Team, through FEMA, made its way thru the city to conduct inspections. The team is qualified and has credentials.

Watseka Public Works personnel are working with Iroquois County officials and the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) removing debris. Additional dumpsters will be made available.

Iroquois County EMA reports Lutheran Church Ministries and Team Rubicon performed muck-out operations Saturday. The effort assists flood victims in Cissna Park, Milford and Woodland and those in rural locations too. Contact the Emergency Operations Center 815-432-6997 for help.

Any homeowners not reached over the weekend will be contacted soon. Southern Baptist Disaster Relief will begin assessments this week.

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