SCHAKOWSKY MEETS WITH CONSTITUENTS & TOURS AREAS IN DES PLAINES THREATENED BY FLOOD WATERS

MAY 25, 2004

SCHAKOWSKY MEETS WITH CONSTITUENTS & TOURS AREAS
IN DES PLAINES THREATENED
BY FLOOD WATERS

DES PLAINES, IL - Joining Des Plaines Mayor Tony Arredia, U.S. Representative Jan Schakowsky (D-IL) today toured locations throughout the city where rising river waters are threatening homes, businesses and public buildings. The Des Plaines River is expected to crest on Thursday night at more than 11feet, which is 6.3 feet above flood stage.

Schakowsky also met with constituents working hard to keep flood water away from their homes, saw first hand many backyards and garages that could be affected, and prepared sandbags to hold off the rising river waters.

Schakowsky applauded the tireless efforts of the volunteers and praised Des Plaines city officials for organizing the massive campaign to protect neighborhoods and communities against the flood waters.

Schakowsky joined the mayor in encouraging those who wish to volunteer to call 847/391-5480 or to visit:

http://www.desplaines.org/ReferenceDesk/PressReleases/2004/040522.htm

for more information, including where to get and fill sandbags.

During the tour, Schakowsky promised to continue to work with the mayor to move forward stalled Army Corp of Engineers projects that would alleviate flooding in the future. Schakowsky also added that, at the appropriate time, she will work with Des Plaines to obtain support from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).