FLOOD VICTIMS NOT LIKELY TO GET AID - Damage Reports Still Needed

(09/01/2005)
It is not likely Calhoun residents will qualify for federal assistance following Monday's flash flood in southern Calhoun.

Calhoun's OES Director Bill Stemple told MetroNews "I don't think there is enough damage to get a federal declaration," but residents are still being asked to report damage.

Sixty-seven residents or business owners have reported damage to their property, located along the West Fork of the Little Kanawha or one of several tributaries that had about five inches of rainfall.

The Upper West Fork Community Building likely had all their major appliances destroyed by the flood, including a new freezer, refrigerator and stoves. Water was four or five feet in the building.

Pastor Brian Jones of the Spencer Seventh Day Adventist Church was assisting families in the area yesterday with supplies. Pastor Jones and his family reside at Chloe.

Residents who experienced property damage are being requested to make an initial report to Calhoun Control at 354-9271.

Cleaning supplies for those with flood damage are available at the Upper West Fork Volunteer Fire Department. Elderly residents or those who cannot drive to the Fire Dept. may call 655-7491 or 354-9271 arrangements will be made to have supplies delivered.