Replacing furnaces after flooding

KALAMAZOO COUNTY, Mich. (NEWSCHANNEL 3) - First they were among the hardest hit by the waters that spilled over river banks in the fall. Now, as the winter weather arrives, they're the people who are struggling to stay warm.

Two days of non-stop rain in September caused flooding all over West Michigan. The floodwaters quickly filled basements, especially in Kalamazoo's Lakewood neighborhood, destroying furnaces and water heaters.

Local leaders have been looking to the state and federal governments for help.

Those floodwaters left hundreds without a furnace to face the bitter cold. The Kalamazoo City Commission is looking at reallocating $100,000 of federal grant money to help home owners who need to fix or replace their furnaces.

If the funding is approved at Monday night's meeting, the money will come from homestead grants that the Kalamazoo Neighborhood Housing Service typically uses to help home owners fix roofs, siding and windows.

One of the areas that would likely get the most aid can be found in Kalamazoo's Edison neighborhood, which saw the highest number of homes damaged and basements flooded.

The biggest question remaining is if the money is approved, what requirements will have to be met by homeowners looking for help.