Summary
update on tornado recovery after 12 weeks
June 14, 2023
Rolling Fork is in its 12th week post tornado and although progress seems slow, we are moving forward.
While there are still piles of debris, the roads are clear and debris is being picked up and hauled away. Some homes and buildlings that are destined to come down are still partially standing, in many cases that owner is still haggling with their insurance company. We know they will eventually come down, and yes there are signs of rebuildling.
Seveal homeowners are working on repairs and some are already rebuildling which is exciting. Many businesses are eager to get back to work and have begun new construction. Some businesses will be working out of portable buildlings and trailers while they decide what they will do going forward. We are all happy to see the signs of progress and know our businesses are coming back.
A few FEMA and Samaritans Purse trailers have been placed in town with more to come. The few that have received trailers are thrilled to get out of hotels or relative’s homes as they plan for reconstruction. We are excited to learn about a new nonprofit that will be building homes in Rolling Fork with the goal of having former renters return to the city as homeowners – Rolling Fork Build Back Better, Inc.
LDP wants to give a shout out to our Sharkey County Emergency management Agency. Frank EAson and Natalie Perkins have been coordinating disaster recovery from Day 1. They work daily with FEMA, MEMA, Volunteer organizations, contractors and others. They’re doing a great job keeping up with all the moving pieces involved in a recovery of this magnitude.
