Damage remains from March floods

Old Lyme, Conn. (WTNH) - It's been a couple of months since flood waters swamped parts of Connecticut but the cleanup is still going on because many flood victims say the problem is money and there isn't enough to cover the cost of repairs.

Almost two months ago water filled the basement of the Lyme Art Association and a lot is still being fixed because folks had to raise money first. There was $60,000 in damage to the building and another $80,000 to the paintings stored on a lower shelf. "Our operating budget is only $300,000 and we're really working on a shoestring," said Susan Ballek of the Lyme Art Association. "We really don't have any extra funds set aside for damages like this."

The Association has raised about $14,000 to get the repairs started, but they need a lot more to complete the work. Donations are needed to remove the mold and install removable panels. When the new ones are finally installed, the first ten inches will be waterproof. "Then four feet up we will have a type of dry wall which is mildew and water resistent," explained Ballek.

The Association is also working with the Department of Environment Protection and the Department of Transportation to try to clear a clogged culvert at the other end of the property. That way any future flood waters will drain away.