Community weighs $12 million relocation decision

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Reporter - Robert Bradfield

Story Created: Mon Sep 3, 2012 5:38 PM

Story Updated: Mon Sep 3, 2012 5:38 PM

OLIVE BRANCH, Ill. - The scars of Flood 2011 still run deep for Sidney Miller.

"I come down here and just want to cry," he said.

He tried to save his home of 30 years, but that wasn't enough to keep Mother Nature away.

"In 1993, thought we beat it. 100 year flood, you see that once every 100 years, figured we'd be alright," Miller said

About 160 of Miller's neighbors are tired of having to worry about it. So, thanks to a recently approved $12 million grant they have a choice to make - elevate their current homes a few feet or build new ones at this 100 acre site just north of Olive Branch.

"We've come a long way in the buyout program through all the paperwork. Now, we're just waiting on the money to build," Miller said.

As Miller patiently waits for the money to roll in, he said the decision should be easy.

"I think you ought to think about the value of your house - who's going to buy a house in a flood area like that. It's time to move forward I think," Miller said.