Porter County Leaders Discuss Storm Cleanup Funding

1 week ago 0

Porter County government leaders recently gathered to address the aftermath of a destructive storm. The expected cost of the cleanup is estimated between $7 million and $10.75 million. This includes clearing debris from county roads and managing vegetation at compost sites, which were nearly full after the storm.

Mike Jabo, Executive Director of Planning & Storm Water Management, highlighted the randomness and severity of the storm impact. Damage was most significant in Jackson Township and southeast Chesterton. The storm affected 158 square miles and 305 road miles, with County roads 250 E and 350 E heavily impacted. Though roads are cleared, residual debris remains.

Debris collection, handling, and disposal might cost $5 to $8 million. The council is considering funding strategies, such as utilizing the Cumulative Bridge Fund. However, county attorneys advised against temporary borrowing due to repayment concerns. The bridge fund requires $15 to $20 million for maintenance alone.

Funding through the Porter County Foundation is also under discussion. This would need unanimous board approval. Commissioner Jim Biggs sought public input on this option.

The county plans to hire Del Sol Consulting for FEMA-related assistance to ensure proper reimbursement. Del Sol’s fee is 5% of the cleanup cost, which FEMA allows as an administrative line item. With accurate documentation, the county might recover most cleanup expenses.

The county will request bids for debris removal contracts soon. Cleanup efforts will focus on unincorporated county areas, as clarified by Biggs.

Communication is crucial. Council members receive frequent updates, and residents are informed through the county’s EMA Facebook page and website. Volunteer organizations are being coordinated for resident aid.

Residents have access to storm recovery resources at Woodland Park’s Sycamore Room in Portage. Fifteen vetted agencies are available to assist from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday.