06/10/2008

Associated Press

Less than three months after a levee breach caused major flooding in their tiny southeast Missouri town, Dutchtown residents are looking into the possibility of government buyouts.

State Emergency Management Agency hazard mitigation officer Sheila Huddleston met with residents Monday night. She outlined the process that could result in the purchase of homes damaged when massive rains caused flooding in March.

She told residents the next step is to find out who is willing to participate and apply for help.

Some 15 homes in the town of about 100 residents suffered major damage. The flooding was the first time many residents had water in their homes, but other recent floods have threatened the town.

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Information from: Southeast Missourian, http://www.semissourian.com