Representative Mike Carter has asked Governor Bill Lee to include Hamilton County for federal disaster relief funds for recent flooding.

His letter to the governor said, "Last Friday I stood in pouring rain with residents of the Hunter Road/Flagstone Subdivision of Hamilton County. Having a day packed with appointments only allowed me to spend one hour at that location. The flooding and damage to the homes there can only be appreciated in person. It is a true disaster. I would like to ask that you please add Hamilton County to your request for federal disaster relief.

"Let me also take this opportunity to applaud the actions of Hamilton County Mayor Jim Coppinger and his team, together with the State of Tennessee. Surrounded by news cameras and concerned and upset citizens, Dean Flener (Executive Officer of External Relations for TEMA), returned my call based on an email I sent him at 5:15am EST that morning. His compassionate and immediate response to ensure the citizens that all of the assets of the State of Tennessee would be dispatched to help in any possible way was met with many smiles. I was asked several times, "How did you make that happen?" I replied, "I called him and he returned my call. That's what state government is about."

"An additional concern was that seven homes standing at the entrance to Flagstone have cars and septic systems under approximately five feet of water. Amy Katcher and Jennifer Innes of TDEC were onsite and happily answered all questions concerning contamination in the water. As the citizens' concern was obvious, I requested and TDEC immediately agreed to test the water for contaminants. On Sunday evening, I received written confirmation from TDEC that bacteria and other contaminant levels were well within (and actually below) normal stream water.

"I also wanted to let you know that the commissioners and state employees of the various state agencies could not have responded more professionally nor more compassionately. They were a great help.

"There is a lot to do and a lot of damage. The entire Hamilton County Delegation appreciates your support for Mayor Jim Coppinger' s request for federal disaster relief."