Task Force Seeks Help for Flood Victims

Six residents along the flood-prone Edgewater Drive have already asked the city to buy out their damaged homes and according to City Manger Kelly Hayworth the door is open for more takers. (Brian Ray/The Gazette)

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By Becky Ogann

Story Created: Sep 2, 2008 at 3:23 PM CST

Story Updated: Sep 2, 2008 at 3:24 PM CST

DES MOINES (AP) - A task force created to assess damage from this year's flooding and make recommendations for recovery is calling for expanded housing programs and financial assistance for businesses wanting to rebuild.

But the Rebuild Iowa Advisory Commission was silent about whether lawmakers should be called into special session to deal with the recovery.

The commission released a report on Tuesday that outlined its recommendations to help residents and businesses recover from the flooding.

The group said the top priority should be finding housing for displaced residents before cold weather arrives.

It also called for forgivable loans for businesses, along with waiving sales taxes on materials bought for rebuilding and offering a tax credit for the cost of rebuilding.

The report didn't offer a final figure on flood damage, but that number is expected to reach $10 billion.

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