FARGO (KFGO-AM) - A history lesson at the FM Diversion Authority meeting. Local officials gave a brief summary of an economic impact report completed after the 2009 red river flood. Now updated, Cass County Commission Chairman Chad Peterson says it's important the region understands why the 36 mile, $2 billion flood protection project is needed.
He says in 2009, he had Blackhawk helicopters flying over his house carrying sandbags. He says thousands of people in the region have no idea what the struggle is about for digging this "ditch."
Jim Gartin, President of the Greater Fargo Moorhead Economic Development Corporation says thousands of jobs and a $15 billion economy are at stake. Gartin told the Diversion Authority board "more and more companies are stopping and questioning" what's going to happen with permanent flood protection and he says that's concerning.