LEONARD GRAY

HAHNVILLE – The onslaught of Tropical Storm Allison, which dumped tons of water everywhere from Thibodaux to Covington, generally spared its wrath from much of the River Parishes. In St. Charles Parish, said Emergency Operations Director Tab Troxler, 14 inches of rain were dumped with half of that on June 6. A dozen homes were invaded by floodwaters, including five in the Luling Estates area and the others mostly in St. Rose and Destrehan. Though the storm largely bypassed this area, 100,000 sandbags were distributed in St. Charles Parish from almost 30 locations across the parish. Altogether, Troxler said, the parish spent $1.5 million on this emergency alone, in manpower, generator and pump rentals, food and other equipment. Because of the expense incurred, Troxler said, “It’s important for us to get the Presidential declaration.” With the area designated a disaster area, federal funds are freed to offset many governmental costs. Though St. Charles Parish alone would not likely qualify, adjoining Lafourche Parish likely will, which would help St. Charles get a measure of those funds, as an adjoining parish. Troxler expressed gratitude at the cooperation of the St. Charles School Board and the St. Charles Sheriff’s Office. recognized hurricane expert at Colorado State University’s geophysics lab. Troxler continued he’s had several calls regarding uninsured losses, and he urged residents without flood insurance to act quickly and get the vital insurance.