Bates busy as wait on FEMA continues

Stephanie Bates' wait is not yet over. Since the family's home was flooded in January, she has been working with the Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA) to arrange compensation. The home, purchased by her parents, Carol and Tucker in 1947, suffered about 18 inches worth of mud and water inside the building. Both Carol, a well known local historian, and Tucker are now deceased.

Syd, Stephanie's brother was living in the home when it flooded. “He didn't get much out because he had to leave in a hurry,” Bates said of the quickly rising water that eventually destroyed two other homes. Bates estimates that the cost of lost belongings, including items owned by both she and her brother as well as those that had been in the family for years, was approximately $24,000. Damages to the home are estimated at $50,000. Bates, who had a conference call with FEMA representatives last week, said she should learn sometime in October what FEMA will offer her.

Once the decision has been made, the home will be demolished and the property will revert to the city. “Nothing can ever be built on it again.” Bates said she believes the property is destined to become a park. If that happens, she hopes the apple tree beside the house, will not be cut down. “It's part of Scio's history,” she said, adding that it is the last apple tree that was part of Dr. Prill's orchard. She also hopes it might be named in honor of her father. “Mom's name is on the stage,” she said referring to the Carol Bates Memorial Stage on the grounds of the Linn County Lamb and Wool Fair.

The home itself is also of historical significance. When an addition was built by her father in about 1962, Bates said wood from the old IOOF Hall was used. “It's sad to get rid of it,” Bates said, “because of all the memories.” She explained that the only thing that could save it, according to FEMA, would be to raise the foundation a full two feet. “I just can't afford it.”

While many items in the house were ruined- “I hated losing the books,” Bates said, other items were saved. One was a white glass fronted cabinet filled with glassware. The water did get inside but thanks to the enamel paint, it was relatively easy to clean. The wooden floors are warped and the rooms are filled with mildew and mold. Despite Bates' cleaning efforts, some remnants of the mud that filled the house also remains.

Another item Bates is thrilled that survived not only the last flood but also the flood of 1996, is a grandfather clock built by Dr. Prill, whose home was right next door to the Bates' home. It was eventually moved and is now on property on Gilkey Road. The clock, handmade in 1900 by Dr. Prill, was raised up off the floor and suffered no major damage.

Bates has now moved much of the salvageable items into storage. More is set to be sold at a garage sale. This is all in anticipation of next month's decision by FEMA. Bates said once the decision has been made, she will have 90 days to vacate the home in order for the demolition can begin.