Highland Park Residents Asked To Report Flood Impact

HIGHLAND PARK, IL — In order to help determine eligibility for federal disaster relief assistance, Highland Park city officials are urging all residents who have been effected by recent flooding to complete a form by the end of the week, as the city announced it is seeking state and federal assistance to help pay for the cost of flood recovery and response. The use of city reserve funds to cover flood-related costs like special refuse pickups and gas line replacement has also been approved, city officials announced Tuesday.

To help recovery efforts, officials have asked residents to fill out the Lake County Flood Impact Report Form by Sunday. Volunteers from the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), local elected officials and staff will also be going door to door to spread the word. Residents have been asked to document and photograph all flood-related damage. Highland Park residents who need help completing the form were asked to stop by City Hall at 1707 St. Johns Ave. between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. this week.

In addition, the City authorized a fee waiver for permits related to damage caused as a result of flooding to heating, hot water systems, and natural gas lines within the home. North Shore Gas requires a contractor to certify gas line replacement before they restore gas service to homes. All homes on Taylor Avenue were impacted. (Unforeseen emergencies are one of the approved uses of reserve funds under the City’s Statement of Financial Policy.)

» OFFICIAL FORM: Lake County Flood Impact Report Form

“The recent flood severely impacted a significant number of our residents and businesses. The widespread devastation led the City Council to authorize this emergency assistance to residents,” Highland Park Mayor Nancy Rotering said. “In addition to our focus on recovery, we are in touch with County, State and Federal officials to identify, evaluate and work towards implementing flood-damage-reduction measures going forward. It will not be easy, but this effort has to be a priority for the region.”

Several areas of Lake County were hit with significant rainfall last week, beginning Tuesday night and concluding Wednesday afternoon. Five to eight inches of rain fell, resulting in major road closures, power outages, and street flooding. The Skokie River overflowed causing low-lying areas in the community to flood. A proclamation declaring a State of Emergency was signed late Wednesday night by Lake County and approved Friday evening by the Governor.

More than two dozen Highland Park streets were rendered impassable by last week's severe flooding. Thousands of residents were affected, with some being evacuated from their home. In the case of one street, a gas main needed to be replaced and expedited only after the flood waters receded.

Rotering issued a formal request Friday federal and county officials asking for help with flood recovery and future flood prevention. Highland Park city officials will continue to meet with representatives of FEMA, local county storm water management staff to discuss what other steps can be taken to support residents impacted by the flood and reduce damage in the future.

» Read more via the City of Highland Park

Storm Recovery Efforts - What is the City doing?

Public Works crews in cooperation with the City Manager's, Police and Fire Departments worked around the clock cleared inlets, conducted traffic control, and responded to public safety concerns including helping people from their homes. All City departments continue to address resident calls and send out communication alerts via our website, eNews, and social media.

The City approved the use of reserve funds to cover costs for flood-related special refuse pickups and gas line replacement certification. In addition, the City authorized a fee waiver for permits related to damage caused as a result of flooding to heating, hot water systems, and natural gas lines within the home. Fee waivers do not apply for renovations of finished basements or any other work as a result of flooding. North Shore Gas requires a contractor to certify gas line replacement before they restore gas service to the homes impacted on Taylor Avenue.

The City of Highland Park, along with other Lake County communities, will be meeting with FEMA representatives on Tuesday, July 18 to discuss flood recovery efforts and future stormwater management in response to the severe flooding that has resulted in a State of Emergency.

Find helpful flood information on the Lake County Emergency Management Agency website.

Health Risks Related to Floodwater Contact
The Lake County Health Department has provided important health and safety information to protect individuals in the event of a flood. Read their comprehensive tips about how to stay safe when and after flooding has occurred.

How Do I Dispose of Items Damaged by the Flood?
The City is providing for free curbside service through Lakeshore Recycling Systems. If you have items that need to be removed due to flood damage, please call Lakeshore Recycling at 773.685.8811 to schedule a free pickup on one of the following days, July 19, July 26, or August 2. Items should be placed curbside for collection. If you require a dumpster, please call LRS for pricing. No yard waste, electronics or white goods, such as washing machines and refrigerators, are included with the free pickup. If you have already scheduled a pickup, the free collection will be honored.

Street Closure Information

For updated road conditions, please visit Lake County PASSAGE at www.lakecountypassage.com.

Sandbags Available
Sandbags are now available at the Highland Park Recycling Center, 1180 Half Day Road, on a first come, first served basis in the parking lot immediately north of the gate. Sandbags can be picked up anytime.

Flood Cleanup Tool Kits
The City has received a limited number of flood cleanup tool kits from Lake County. Residents interested in obtaining a kit can call the City's Public Works Department during office hours at 847.432.0807.

Top photo via the City of Highland Park