Through the Quick Buy program, Mecklenburg County approved the purchase of 37 homes that flooded in August 2008.  Read the news release about the final Quick Buy purchase.

The County presented offers in late 2008 to buy 41 flood-damaged homes. More than 90% agreed to sell to the County. The voluntary sale of flood-prone property is part of Storm Water Services' ongoing Floodplain Buyout Program. 

Quick Buy funding
In the fall of 2008, the Mecklenburg County Board of County Commissioners approved spending up to:

• $4 million of County Storm Water reserve funds and
• $2 million of County Park and Recreation Bond funds

to purchase flooded homes or businesses. Qualifying properties had to meet specific criteria such as risk of flooding or proximity to future greenway or park land. 

Briar Creek during August 27 flood

Read the Board's Resolution regarding the Quick Buy.

See the flood summary presentation to the Board.

Why a "Quick Buy"?
Using all local funds allows Storm Water Services to:

• quickly buy eligible properties before flood damage is repaired
• use locally-set criteria to determine which properties are eligible.

Quick Buys are processed in a matter of weeks or months. By comparison, it takes more than a year to acquire eligible floodplain properties when outside grants are used.

 

Storm Water Services' Floodplain Buyout Program is one way to protect lives and property from flood losses. The floodplain is returned to open space, sometimes with amenities such as a greenway or features to remove pollution from storm water runoff. Most previous buyouts have been through federal or state grants. Storm Water Services will continue to pursue grant funds for future buyouts.

2008 Floodplain Quick Buy Program contact:
Robert Billings
704-432-0907
Robert.Billings@MecklenburgCountyNC.gov

Homes were acquired, torn down and the floodplain restored along Westfield Road