Rep. Constan Talks with Residents Regarding Basement Flooding

Town hall provided opportunity to learn of flood plain risks

DEARBORN HEIGHTS - State Representative Bob Constan (D-Dearborn Heights) held an informational town hall Friday, Nov. 19 at the John F. Kennedy Library in Dearborn Heights to discuss the location of the flood plain and answer questions regarding flood insurance and what areas of Dearborn Heights were considered to lie within the flood plain. Residents were also able to ask questions to the Representative and Patrick Durack from the Department of Environmental Quality.

“A big issue facing residents in Dearborn Heights is the sewage that can back up into homes after a flood. These homeowners are required by FEMA to purchase flood insurance, which is an extra cost, yet the sewage damage isn’t covered under their plans,” said Rep. Constan. “I wanted to hold this town hall to educate residents on their risks and talk about what they can do if they experience damage to their homes and actions they can take to get their homes out of the flood plain.”

“I wanted to join the Representative here today because this is a huge issue for homeowners and I’m happy to see that so many were in attendance,” said Patrick Durack. “The new flood plain maps should be out in 2012. Currently, the maps are drawn based on elevation and scientific evidence and not on individual experiences. We want residents to know there are actions they can take to have their property removed from the flood plain.”

If residents have any questions or concerns regarding the flood plain they can contact Representative Bob Constan toll-free at (888) 345-8017 or by email at bobconstan@house.mi.gov.