Former flood victim urges relocation of homes

A New Brunswick woman who was relocated after flooding in Perth-Andover nearly 20 years ago is urging the provincial government to do the same for current flood victims.

The provincial government is considering moving homes away from the St. John River to prevent future flood damage in the area.

More than 100 houses and three dozen businesses were affected when the riverbanks rose two weeks ago.

In 1993, the province elected to haul more than 40 homes away from the banks of the St. John River after they were repeatedly damaged by springtime flooding.

Vivian Mosher lived in one of those homes.

"It was so emotional," she said.

"And at that time, stressful."

Each move cost the government about $80,000. A worthwhile investment, said Mosher.

"I was so happy to get off the river bank," she said. "I think they should move the whole thing, business and all."

Wes McLean, the MLA for Victoria-Tobique, said no decisions have been made yet.

"Thats a central question, and thats one I cant answer today but believe me it is one that is being considered by the government," he said.

The costs of this years flood continue to add up.

The Red Cross has received 385 applications for help. Emergency measures officials say early estimates put the cost of the damage at $25 million.

Meanwhile,District 14Superintendent John Tingleysaid classrooms at the badly damaged Southern Victoria High School were packed up Wednesday.

He confirmed students in Grades 11 and 12 will start class on April 10 at Tobique Valley High School in Plaster Rock.Grade 9 and 10 students will start on April 11 at John Caldwell School in Grand Falls.

Tingley said report cards were sent out Wednesday after teachers went to the middle school and filed their results.