Sunday, November 04, 2007

FIRST COAsT NEWS: Mica Tours Erosion Ravaged Beachfront1(June 2007)

Mica Tours Erosion Ravaged Beachfront
JACKSONVILLE, FL -- Congressman John Mica toured erosion-ravaged beaches in South Ponte Vedra Beach Monday.

It was one of several coastal stops for Mica as part of a fact-finding tour in response to pleas for help from the locals.

"He's been getting calls from a lot of concerned homeowners 'cause there's a sense of helplessness that takes place. You know, you've got the ocean encroaching upon your house. The EPA's telling you you have to wait until it's 20-feet from your house. You know you're watching the love of your life disappear," said homeowner Clay Hanson.

Mica told reporters the erosion problem is threatening homes all along the Florida coastline.

"I think it's almost inevitable we're going to get another storm and I think we're going to lose some houses washing into the ocean before it's over," said Rep. Mica.

Mica says a long-term solution involves millions of federal dollars - some of which could be available in the fall if a measure passes through congress.

"What we're looking at is a short-term solution trying to protect as much property as possible with the homeowners and the county," said Mica.


First Coast News

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