The greatest need now spiraling out of the April 27 tornado that touched down in Apison is help with clearing and hauling debris.
“By far, the biggest need is still clearing of land; with downed trees and so forth it’s a concern as we go into dry weather,” said Tony Dahlberg, executive director of the Samaritan Center, which recently hosted a community needs-gathering and informational meeting. “Then you’ve got everything from building back barns and fences for cattle, rebuilding homes, things like that.”
Hamilton County Emergency Services Chief of Emergency Management Bill Tittle said Apison was the county area hardest hit. Of the 56 homes destroyed countywide, 36 were in Apison.
Hamilton County Mayor Jim Coppinger said county crews will continue to pick up brush and debris hauled to roads’ public right of way. Tires may also be left by the roadside for pickup. With both, the closer to the road the better. The right of way extends 30 feet from the center line.
“Don’t expect it to be every single day,” Coppinger said of the pickups. “We will make passes back through.”