Monroe County Council requests $15000 for floodplain property cleanup in Stinesville

Monroe County Council has taken a significant step towards addressing environmental and safety concerns in Stinesville by approving a $15,000 appropriation for the planning department. This funding will facilitate the removal of hazardous materials from two properties located in the floodplain, a move aimed at mitigating potential ecological risks associated with flooding.

During the council meeting on April 22, 2025, officials discussed the importance of maintaining floodplain protections under an interlocal agreement with Stinesville, which has been in place since November 2024. This agreement allows the town to benefit from Monroe County's planning and zoning administration, ensuring that they qualify for federal disaster funding in the event of a flood. The council emphasized that without this agreement, Stinesville could face severe financial repercussions, as evidenced by past flooding events.

The properties in question have been the subject of litigation due to violations related to junkyard operations and lack of necessary permits. The planning department has received court orders allowing them to clean up these sites, which are currently cluttered with debris that poses risks during flood events. Council members expressed urgency in addressing these issues, noting that materials left on these properties could exacerbate flooding and lead to further environmental damage.

Councilor Henry highlighted the broader implications of the cleanup, stressing that failure to act could jeopardize the entire county's eligibility for the National Flood Insurance Program. The council's decision to approve the funding reflects a commitment to not only improve local safety but also to protect the community's financial interests in disaster recovery.

Looking ahead, the planning department will hire a contractor to begin the cleanup process, which is expected to include the removal of various structures and debris. Council members acknowledged that this situation may not be isolated, with similar issues likely to arise in other parts of the county, particularly as weather patterns change.

The unanimous approval of the appropriation marks a proactive approach by Monroe County Council to safeguard both the environment and the well-being of its residents. As the cleanup progresses, officials will continue to monitor the situation and explore additional measures to prevent similar challenges in the future.