Storm Lake, Iowa (RI) — Buena Vista County is still struggling to get federal dollars to make repairs after flooding in 2018 and 2019.
FEMA initially offered $4.5 million dollars to restore the Linn Grove Dam and a nearby park in the county. The agency later offered $7.5 million, then pulled all funding, though it was restored through arbitration.
County conservation director Greg Johnson says the latest offer still isn’t enough money to repair the dam and the popular fishing spot.
In 2022, it was estimated the project would cost more than $12 million dollars, while Johnson says it’s likely higher today.
At one point, FEMA claimed the project wasn’t eligible for any funding, but Johnson says both sides went through arbitration with the Civilian Board of Public Appeals.
County officials have until April 1st to appeal FEMA’s most recent offer, and Johnson says that will likely happen.
KIWA Staff Photo
