Governor Andy Beshear announced Wednesday that Team Kentucky will allocate over $118 million to six counties, including McLean County, for buying out properties from willing residents living in flood-prone areas.
Local officials estimated the funds would help more than 600 homeowners move to safer homes outside the floodplain.
Along with McLean County, Floyd, Knott, Letcher, Perry, and Pike counties will also receive funding following floods earlier this year that affected all six areas.
According to the Governor’s administration, of the $118.2 million, $106.7 million comes from the federal Emergency Watershed Protection Program, administered by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, an agency under the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The required local cost share is being covered by Team Kentucky, using $11.4 million from the state’s Local Match Participation Program.
The Emergency Watershed Protection Program provides homeowners with fair market value for their homes and covers eligible moving expenses
McLean County will receive $559,498 from the Local Match Participation Program and $1,812,773 from the Natural Resources Conservation Service.
In a written statement, McLean County Judge Executive Curtis Dame said that earlier this year, the county experienced the worst flooding many residents have ever seen. He said as they continue to rebuild, these buyouts, if accepted by affected citizens, will help their people get a fair price for their property. He noted that this program is helping people who have been through a life-altering event, showing that smart governance can be a force for good. He said, “Our resolve is strong and made more vibrant by our desire to leave no citizen, family, or friend behind.”
In Eastern Kentucky, Team Kentucky is helping build eight high-ground neighborhoods in Knott, Letcher, Floyd, Perry, and Breathitt counties, as well as developing additional housing across Eastern Kentucky. State officials noted this allows flood survivors to stay in their communities and receive assistance in finding housing.
