April showers bring May flowers… but it could also bring potential flooding. South Holland is subject to over-bank flooding from three sources: the Little Calumet River, Thorn Creek, and the Calumet Union Drainage Ditch. This does not mean, however, that water damage to your property is inevitable. There are many preventative measures you can take to protect your property in advance. Here are some tools to help prepare your property for potential flooding.
1. KNOW Your Flood Hazard
What exactly is the flood hazard in South Holland? The Village is subject to three types of flood hazards: overbank flooding, local drainage, and sewer backup. Depending on where you live in the Village, your property may be susceptible to one, two, or all three of these hazards. To find out if you are in a mapped floodplain call the Community Development Department at 708.210.2915.
2. Protect PEOPLE from the Hazard
How can I protect my family during a flood? Every resident should have an emergency plan in place. Create a family communication plan, understand evacuation routes, and build an emergency kit with drinking water, canned food, first aid supplies, batteries and a flashlight. Check out ready.gov/kit for more supply kit ideas and additional information.
3. Protect Your PROPERTY from the Hazard
How can I protect my property from the flood hazard? Did you know the Village provides a Flood Assistance Rebate Program? This program allows residents who have been pre-qualified to be reimbursed for a percentage of the cost of their floodproofing project. Residents can receive a 25% rebate (up to $2,500) for projects that address surface water diversion, sewer backups and subsurface improvements (such as foundation waterproofing or repairs). The Village also offers a cost-sharing program that pays 50% (up to $5,000) for larger sewer backup prevention projects. Call the Community Development Department at 708.210.2915 for more information.
4. INSURE Your Property For the Hazard
Did you know that most homeowner insurance policies DO NOT cover a property for flood damage? Flood insurance can be purchased by ALL residents of the Village. Because South Holland participates in the National Flood Insurance Program and is a Class 5 community, residents located within the floodplain are eligible to receive a 25% discount of their flood insurance policy and all other residents are eligible to receive a 10% discount. Renters can obtain contents coverage to protect buildings. Contact your insurance agent to learn more about flood insurance opportunities.
5. BUILD Responsibly
How can residents build responsibly? Always contact the Community Development Department at 708.210.2915 before you build on, add fill to, or change your property in any way. A permit may be required and a Village review of the proposed changes may help you avoid potential drainage problems.
6. PROTECT Natural Floodplain Functions
What can residents do to help protect the floodplain? The natural function of the floodplain is to provide storage and conveyance of floodwaters, protect water quality and recharge groundwater reserves. It can and should be protected by all Village residents. Use garden chemicals sparingly and only when necessary, and be sure to properly store and dispose of oils, chemicals, and other toxic materials. If you see dumping of debris in ditches or filling in the floodplain, contact the Community Development Department at 708.210.2915.
For more flooding resources, visit our webpage on Stormwater Management.