ELKHART — It has been just over one month since heavy rain and snow melt caused historic flooding across Michiana. Among those areas hit hard was the city of Elkhart.

But according to Mayor Tim Neese, the city may not get funding from FEMA.

About 800 buildings were damaged by the flood and 315 people were rescued by first responders in Elkhart. Luckily no one was killed.

Despite how much destruction was caused by the flooding, the city has been told not to expect money from FEMA.

“We’re going to work on behalf of our own efforts. We’re not expecting federal funding but if it occurs, then we’re certainly going to be thankful for that,” said Neese on 16 Morning News.

While the waters have receded, there’s still plenty of work to be done.

“We’re in the stage now where we’re still assessing the level of the damage, working on overtime, working with FEMA.”

A bridge in the city has also been closed for about five weeks now.

“It’s very compromised. We don’t know to what extent. In Elkhart we have two rivers so when you have a bridge out, that’s pretty significant with regard to the traffic flow.”

Engineers are still inspecting the bridge to determine the extent of the damage.

For anyone still working to repair their home, the city will continue collecting debris from impacted areas through April 2. After that, residents can contact the Elkhart Street Department to arrange pickup at 574-293-5518.

Neese will further discuss recovery efforts during his State of the City address Wednesday night.

It will be his third one and he will reflect on key accomplishments in 2017. Those include crime being down and the Elkhart Fire Department which has one of highest efficiency ratings in the country.

Neese will also discuss what will happen in 2018, including a record amount of development and the 53 different outdoor events that will take place in the city.

The speech will take place at the Lerner Theatre at 6 p.m. All residents are invited to attend.

Source: WNDU