Meeting with Administrator Cribb

Some updates: We spoke with Alan Shirey of the Army Corp of Engineers to discuss any possible direct application we - as citizens - could potentially submit to have the Corp do an independent study regarding flood mitigation of Turkey Creek along Hanahan. There are a number of possible studies; however, in order to apply, the Corp would require a Sponsor (to cost share). This Sponsor would need to be a Federally approved organization (such as the City of Hanahan or a Non-Profit-Organization). He was not sure how we - as citizens possibly forming an NPO for fiscal responsibility - would process this as an NPO, but he said he would get back with me. Meanwhile, they will be meeting with the City of Hanahan on Friday 3/17 to discuss possible mitigation studies. This is separate from the request we are making regarding the FMA Planning Grant, although the two may eventually become linked if they proceed with a study through the Corps. While most of us feel this is the City's responsibility to escalate to Partner Government Agencies, that may not happen, which is why we have asked what other possibilities there are. Obviously, there is a problem that needs to be addressed whether the City will assist or not. The problem we are facing is that most of the Partner Government Agencies state that we must apply through the City. We had an initial face-to-face meeting today with Administrator Johnny Cribb and Building Official Larry Sturdivant on behalf of the residences of Brookside Drive to discuss possible mitigation planning for Brookside and surrounding neighborhoods bordering the Creek. Concerning the meeting they will have with the Army Corps of Engineers this coming Friday (3/17), there are two potential studies available that may be able assist in our situation. It appears they may be leaning towards something called a "Section 205 Study". In the meantime, we requested the City apply for the FMA Planning Grant per our Petition to assist in supporting any potential future costs for other appropriate studies (including any study the Army Corps may have). According to the City: "No one is complaining". That was somewhat disheartening to hear that "I am the only one". I've heard the complaints just on my street (Brookside), so I'm sure there are more complaints than they are hearing. If no one complains, most of the time nothing will get done (just like the flood year-before-last). I would encourage you to share some of your stories with the City directly in addition to this forum. At the very least, please continue to share this Petition with your neighbors so that we can be a collective voice and keep each other informed. In the meantime, I have attached a link with some information about one of the possible studies (Section 205).