GAYS MILLS (WKOW) -- Gays Mills is still rebuilding after floods destroyed homes and businesses in August 2007 and June 2008.
Almost five years later, the village of just over 600 people continues to change, with a new development about one mile from the old part of town.
"The decision for the community was to voluntarily relocate if we could make it happen and so through that process, we have this new Upland District that has been developed," said Recovery and Development Director Julia Henley.
Henley said that about 40 homes were severely damaged from flooding and 36 will be rebuilt. Some businesses have moved to the Upland District, like the local grocery store, to increase distance from the floodplain.
While some residents are re-located, in the process of moving or staying put, Susan Jerrett said she's moved out.
"When we come to Gays Mills, we feel like the old part is a ghost town," Jerrett said.
She says her home was destroyed in the 2007 flood. "Just to sum it up, it was a shock to the community and we were very unprepared," Jerrett said.
For other residents, keeping their homes has been more of a priority than moving out of the floodplain.
Michael Welsh said he doesn't have any plans on moving out of his parents' home, even if flooding could still be a threat.
Welsh said,"Well, cross my fingers, maybe sand bag the windows and try and keep the water out of my basement but other than that, just cross my fingers and hope that the Kickapoo can hold it."
