Ill. Mayor Headed to Washington to Seek Aid

Pontiac Mayor Scott McCoy is heading for Washington D.C. to answer questions, describe the situation and see if there is anything else he or the city can do in order to receive a federal disaster declaration.

McCoy met Tuesday with Senator Dick Durbin and his staff and then talk with FEMA officials about the current situation in Pontiac and Iroquois County.

Snow melt and excessive rain caused the Vermilion River to rise to record heights, according to Pontiac’s measurements, and cause massive amounts of damage and forcing numerous residents to evacuate. A federal declaration was sought shortly thereafter in January, but was denied by the federal government in February.

The denial prompted an appeal in early February. A federal decision on this appeal has not yet been heard.