EDITORIAL: Busting up flood myths

It’s easy to see how rumours and misinformation can spread in rapid fashion.

The claim process surrounding the May 28 flood disaster is a perfect example.

Rather than spending their valuable time looking for money to add to the fundraising pot, disaster relief committee officials on Wednesday felt the need to visit with local media to debunk a series of myths surrounding what they’re attempting to do.

First and foremost is the class-action lawsuit being contemplated by some of the victims.

Committee chairman Wayne Fletcher  emphasized that should the suit be won, and damages awarded, out of that any money collected from flood assistance will have to be paid back.

That’s important to know. A lot of people have suggested they don’t want to give with the lawsuit looming, worried some unscrupulous victims may try to double dip.

With that set straight, hopefully it means we’ll start to see a ramp-up in donations, corporate and individual. With slightly more than $750,000 of the $5-million goal on the books, there’s a long way to go before the end of the year. 

Without this money, which the province will match two-for-one, the city will not be able to pay out claims without going to the taxpayer. It’s a scenario no one wants to see occur.