Morrisey urges ‘patience’ during flood recovery process
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BUCKHANNON - Gov. Patrick Morrisey is urging people affected by last week’s flooding in Upshur and Lewis counties to have patience with the ongoing clean-up and recovery process.
Morrisey spoke at the re-opening of Shop ‘n Save Express in Weston Wednesday afternoon, which the governor said was a sign that people across the flood-ravaged region are beginning to get back on their feet.
He commended area residents for "stepping up to help their fellow citizens in need. That means a lot. And I’m so grateful for the amazing altruism that pervades West Virginia. It’s something that goes with the territory of being a West Virginian. That people step up during floods and difficult circumstances."
The governor said stage agencies are moving "as fast as I’ve ever seen any of our office and any of the agencies move" on the flood response. "Thousands of people deployed almost instantaneously."
He urged local residents to show patience toward debris clean-up removal.
"I know we have so many people from the guard and department of highways and private contractors and local, county and city officials out doing so much wonderful work to help families in need," Morrisey said, adding, "It does take some time."
Also on Wednesday, Buckhannon Mayor Robbie Skinner noted that, "Over the past seven days, the people of our region and beyond have been working so hard, and I could not be prouder of our Buckhannon-Upshur family. Thank you for everything you're doing to help us collectively get back on our feet. We're showing the world what we're made of, and that we refuse to give up on ourselves and our hometown."
Skinner also noted in a press release that the donation and distribution center at West Virginia Wesleyan College remains in need of volunteers. The center is located in the Auxiliary Gym on the WVWCcampus, and for the remainder of this week, will be open until 5 p.m.
He assured residents that "the West Virginia Army National Guard is still working in our community. They're out collecting flood debris throughout both Lewis and Upshur counties. They have a tremendous amount of ground to cover, but they are making progress. Please continue to be patient. They will make it to your property. The pick-up service is free, and you do not need to make an appointment. "
The mayor also warned residents to beware scammers in the wake of the flooding.
"Contractors might be knocking on your door asking for opportunities to help, and that's great, we appreciate everyone who is working in our community to help our neighbors restore their properties," Skinner said. "However, it's critically important to ask for copies of contractor and/or electrician licenses, proofs business insurance, and verification of registry with the WV Secretary of State’s Office before any work begins."