Pacific continues to debate property buyouts

PACIFIC, Mo. (AP) -- A community meeting is planned for Tuesday in Pacific as residents in flood-prone areas of town continue to decide whether to seek property buyouts from the federal government.

March flooding along the Meramec River left more than 200 homes and businesses damaged in the eastern Missouri community.

More than 180 property owners received a questionnaire to help the city gauge interest in a voluntary buyout plan. The findings will be discussed at 7:30 p.m. at Pacific City Hall.

Community Development Director Sheila Steelman has said that a levee is not financially feasible. The buyout program would be voluntary.