Written by Pam DeFiglio
After the Niles village board last year created a Flood Control Assistance Program, which pays half of residents' costs to install flood prevention devices under certain conditions, the program has been flooded, so to speak, with applications.
Earlier: Niles is Rushing to Speed Flood Prevention Program
Mayor Andrew Przybylo said Saturday that 91 households are already participating in the program, and 375 more have applied for it. The deadline for applications was June 28.
The amount of money the village allotted for the purpose will likely run out before all the applicants can be helped, he said, adding that the village is committed to doing what it can for applicants. The board could devote more funding in its next budget cycle, which will be discussed in spring 2014.
Village Manager Steve Vinezeano said the program is funded through a 0.25 percent sales tax increase the board passed last year.
Homeowners must meet very specific criteria to be able to claim a 50 percent reimbursement, up to $4,000, from the village.
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The reimbursement must be pre-approved. The first type of flood prevention it covers is Sewer Backflow Protection, which might mean an overhead sewer, backwater valve or check valve.
The second type is Overland Flooding Protection, or protection against flooding through doors and windows or over foundations. Floodwater barriers might need to be installed, or the tops of foundations may need to be sealed so water cannot enter.
More information can be found on the village's website or by calling the village's community development department at 847-588-8040.
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