“The water has gone down substantially from where it was initially,” said Robert Lafferty, Director of Finance in Shelby, at approximately 10 a.m.
Lafferty added, “Around 4:30 a.m., water started pouring out over the banks of the Black Fork River into the parks. The fire department had to be evacuated around 7 a.m. because water was beginning to rush into the building. All vehicles were removed from the building and split up throughout Shelby to make sure all areas of the city were covered.”
Greg “Beardie” Beard, owner of Napoli’s for 32 years, is experiencing his fourth flood.
“We put everything up two to three feet off the floor and we have installed a rubber floor in the kitchen, which makes life a lot easier when a flood happens,” said Beard. Napoli’s is located right beside the Black Fork on W. Main Street. Beard said, “This was a total surprise. Nobody was anticipating this.”
Mayor Marilyn John was on the scene as soon as water started going over the banks. She said, “The water is receding, but we are anticipating another flash flood tonight. Another one to three inches is a potential for tonight, too.” The water gauges that are set up on www.shelbyohio.org, keep track of how much the water rises in the Black Fork.
“We are making sure that both sides of the river have coverage. We have split up the fire, police, and utilities departments to cover both sides,” said Christina Thompson, Community and Economic Development Coordinator. Thompson said, “Residents of Shelby should register online at www.nixle.com to receive alerts that are free from the Shelby Police Department.” Road closings and snow emergencies are sent, too. Notifications can be received via email or text message.
