Letters about the Menard's rezoning

(decorahnews.com has received two Letters to the Editor about the proposed Menard's store in Decorah, both opposed to rezoning the floodplain.  We have received comments--but no letters--from several people in favor of the rezoning, comments that said Menard's should be allowed to do what it wants and saying Decorah has a reputation for being opposed to everything.  We welcome letters (sent to news@decorahnews.com) from people on all sides of this issue)

(Lori Ostlie of Decorah submitted this Letter to the Editor):

"It's not a mystery what happens to rivers when it rains.  Nor is it a new discovery that all water flows downhill, or that if there is an obstruction the water will go elsewhere or just take out that obstruction. The floodplain is called that for a reason, and no one should build on it (home or business).  My guess is the committee members who approve such requests do not own property on or near the floodplain, because, well, it just could flood! That's common sense. So why would they even consider granting permission to build on the floodplain, especially after recent flooding?

Is the price we ultimately end up paying worth the promi$e$ that are made by the big box stores? We knew that once Walmart was granted a permit to fill in the floodplain, others would ask, despite the past and recent history. Why do we elect leaders who are OK with being bedfellows with such unscrupulous businesses? Hindsight is 20/20 folks so let's not repeat history. Do unto others as you would have them do unto you!"
 
(The following Letter to the Editor from Kevin and Carrie Lee is a copy of a letter sent to State Representative Mike Bergan):

"I want to let you know that as a victim of the 2016 Freeport flood, protection is needed here in Freeport against a recurrence of flooding. There are 2,500 residents in the Freeport area.   A dike is needed to protect our property from the flooding of the Upper Iowa River. I see no other remedy as the elevation of property development has changed the dynamics of the flooding river.  These developments have already been constructed and more is certain to happen in the future, which will add to the potential of flooding
               
My neighborhood lost five dwellings and three other homes had caved in basements that cost occupants and helping agencies greatly to repair. Our Community Park and Trail was submerged along with the cemetery and historic church area. Many, many basements like mine received substantial amounts of water and lost many personal items.

Our home was built in 1855 and received its first watermark in the basement.  It is written in Winneshiek History that our home was built on the highest point of the town plat.  Walmart and Wellington are approximately 7 feet higher now.  A Menard's is projected to also infill higher elevating land. 

We need a dike to protect our community of residents. It will be costly, but, so is life and limb and our investments in our homes and property. One cannot proclaim that we should not have built here as in 1855 they built our home purposely on the high point."