Some Marshall County residents are still without shelter as they sift through wreckage of the place they formerly called home.
Several representatives from disaster relief organizations reminded residents of the efforts of volunteers to help put back the pieces after the devastation. Linda Yoder with the Long Term Recovery organization said 2-1-1 is available to assist with any questions and help direct victims to the best resources for specific issues.
The Southern Baptist Disaster Relief volunteers urge residents suffering any damage from flood waters to eradicate mold as soon as possible. Bleach will not help kill the mold. The volunteers use a product called Shockwave to help keep mold from forming. Those volunteers will remain in the area for another week.
The Red Cross volunteers are currently helping with food, shelter and clothing for those affected by flood waters.
Marshall County EMA Director Clyde Avery said financial assistance isn’t available at the moment as the recovery process continues. FEMA representatives will be in Marshall County next week to assess reported damage and either elevate it or downgrade it depending on their standards. That information will be directed to Governor Eric Holcomb to be combined with damage reports submitted by the 30 other counties affected by floods. All assessments will be delivered to FEMA for a possible federal disaster declaration.
Beyond that, damage assessment continues throughout the county. Marshall County Highway Supervisor Jason Peters reported that so far over $3 million in damage has been done to the county’s roads and bridges. Some roads remain closed, but Peters mentioned that almost all of them will be open by Monday. The main concern is public safety. Peters urges residents to report any damage on county roads as some issues may arise that have not been witnessed by the crews. Call 574-936-2181.
During an informational meeting held Thursday night, Marshall County Health Administrator Christine Stinson stressed the need for well testing for wells contaminated with flood water. Ground that remains saturated with water can be a health issue with septic systems and their function. Any questions concerning those issues can be directed to 574-936-8565. Tetanus shots are free at the health department.
Building permit fees are being waived for flood victims. Building permits may be obtained from Building Commissioner Chuck DeWitt in his third floor office in the Marshall County Building. Residents may need the help of an engineer to help with foundation or footing devastation. DeWitt is available to assist anyone with those issues.
Disaster recovery information is also available by calling 2-1-1 or stopping in at the Flood Incident Command Center at 121 W. Garro Street in Plymouth.
