Minot to Hire Flood Consultant with $1M in State Funds

Minot, N.D., is getting $1 million in state money to help the city deal with properties left neglected or abandoned after a devastating flood in 2011.

Gov. Jack Dalrymple announced that the money from the state Division of Emergency Services has been released to hire Washington, D.C.-based Witt O’Brien’s LLC. The governor says the consultant will work with the city on developing a strategy for blighted homes.

Dalrymple tells the Minot Daily News that city officials need outside help to deal with the problem.

Mayor Chuck Barney says the city staff is swamped with other issues besides flooding. He says the city is grateful for the assistance.

The Souris River swamped more than 4,000 homes, businesses and other structures in Minot in June 2011.