Officials in Humphreys County are now seeking to join a federal flood insurance program after waves of destructive water swept through Waverly last month.
County commissioners gave local leaders permission to participate in the Federal Emergency Management Agency-sponsored program on Monday. Previously, the county had rejected the idea.
But Commissioner Tim Daniel says this time it’ll be tough to recover without federal help.
“We’re looking at the whole picture beside just what happened,” Daniel told WPLN News. “But maybe we can look to get some bridges looked at, replaced, or the help that this small city [and] small county can’t afford to do on its own.”
Flood damage costs Tennessee more than $200 million per year. Just one inch of floodwater can create up to $25,000 in damage, according to FEMA. Most private insurance companies don’t cover flood damage.
The county will have to submit a resolution of intent, floodplain management regulations and a formal application to FEMA before being accepted into the program. If approved, the move would provide flood insurance to property owners, renters and businesses.
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