Emergency Declaration issued in Marseilles

          Homeowners and contractors in Marseilles are busy repairing the houses that were damaged when the Illinois River swallowed much of the town during historic flooding last month. 

But the threat of flood waters remains, especially with damage to a damn restricting river flow.  It’s enough of a concern that Mayor Patti Smith issued an emergency declaration.

Chief Jim Hovious says they’re working with the Army Corps of Engineers and watching the river level.  He says Hesco sand barriers are being installed along the earthen dike.

          If the river comes within one-foot of topping the dike they’ll ask people to leave their homes.  Hovious says the risk of flooding is great because of the restricted flow and the rain predicted for upstream.