Geneva County Reaching Out for Funding Assistance from the State

"We still have in the neighborhood of 20 roads closed," said Probate Judge Fred Hamic. "We had it down to 12 roads but then the February 11 event happened and destroyed what we had already done."

That damage is taking a toll on the county's road and bridge department, with the total estimated cost of repairs coming in at almost $2 million.

"Geneva County received the blunt of the damage but it still isn't enough to get any FEMA assistance," said Hamic.

Since FEMA cannot help the county, they are turning to the state. The state has led them to believe that they would help out. "The dollar amount we don't know but in our situation any money at all will be a big help," said Hamic.

The overall cost brings to light the issue of how will the county be able to afford future damages like those incurred in February. Some say an added sales tax revenue is the answer.

"A one cent sales tax in Geneva County could produce $892,000 in 2000. Over ten years that revenue would add up to $9 million that would be dedicated to roads," suggested former Geneva County Commissioner Larry Everett.

Hamic said that option is not out of the question.

"Last thing you want to do is campaign on is tax increase, but I do support what I think is good for the citizens of Geneva County. I think we absolutely have to have an extra support for the road and bridge," said Hamic.

For now, a sales tax increase is not being proposed, but Hamic said he could see it happening down the road.

Hamic said a sales tax increase that would have benefitted the county road and bridge department was on the ballot this past November, but voters turned it down.

Hamic said the reason for the "no" vote was that the money raised from the tax would also go towards building a new jail.