Oakport Township officials are moving forward with three temporary dike projects after securing approval from at least 90 percent of residents in neighborhoods that will benefit from the dikes.
Township officials are still conferring with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers about getting corps assistance in building the dikes, but early indications are "very positive," said Greg Anderson, chairman of the township board.
In working to secure assessment agreements from residents in areas that will be protected by temporary dikes, township officials said the maximum cost per residence for a West Side Dike will be less than $2,000.
The maximum costs for an East Side Dike and a Southside Dike would be significantly less than that, Anderson said, adding that with corps assistance, those cost figures would be reduced even further. Residents would be responsible for cleanup costs, but not the expense of putting up the dikes.
Anderson has said that if there is a major flood in the neighborhood of 38 or 39 feet, the federal government would likely cover the cost of levee removal as well.
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The temporary dikes will reduce the chances that roads will have to be closed during a flood, according to information township officials circulated in support of the dike projects.
The dikes will also reduce the chances that sewer, power and phone service will be disrupted by a flood, township officials said.
Oakport to vote
The Oakport Township election is set for today with two seats to be filled. Incumbents Tim Brendemuhl and Kurt Lackmann are running unopposed for three-year terms.
Voting will take place from 4 to 8 p.m. at the township meeting hall, 1401 28th Ave. N., Moorhead.
The township annual meeting will start at 8 p.m. today at the hall.
Readers can reach Forum reporter Dave Olson at (701) 241-5555
