“We are concerned:" Racine Co. executive issues "declaration of emergency" due to severe erosion



CALEDONIA/MOUNT PLEASANT -- Racine County Executive Jonathan Delagrave on Thursday, May 26th issued a "declaration of emergency" in Racine County due to severe bluff erosion happening along Lake Michigan in Caledonia and Mount Pleasant.

According to Delagrave, because of the increase in water levels on Lake Michigan, and the combination of wave action and unstable bluffs, the erosion of the bluffs has accelerated at an unprecedented rate.

“We are concerned the homes as well as public utilities and infrastructure will fall victim to Lake Michigan in coming days and weeks. County staff are monitoring the situation closely, and we are prepared to do everything we can to support local municipal efforts," Delagrave said in a statement.

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In the statement, Delagrave noted that although the shoreline of Lake Michigan is not under the jurisdiction of Racine County, Delagrave said: “As county executive, this is one way to support our municipalities in raising awareness and finding an expeditious solution.  The presidents of the Villages of Caledonia and Mount Pleasant are aware and in agreement with this action regarding this precarious erosion along their shorelines.”

An emergency declaration positions Racine County to ask for state and federal assistance, if the situation warrants.