Rebulding Delhi dam makes economic sense

I have experienced what were considered five major and many minor flooding events in Dyersville within the past 24 years.

I realize there are still a lot of lives seriously disrupted and property damage within the Lake Delhi area. I think it is important to step back and take a deep breath. This is a huge financial decision that not only affects everyone today but many people in the future. I believe the rebuilding of the dam in an investment in Delaware County's future. Without it the county will lose the necessary tax revenue to pay for basic services, which the rest of the county will need to somehow make up the difference. The economic impact from lost income to local marinas, retail stores, restaurants, gas stations and grocery stores will result in job losses or possible closures. The area tourism will fall off greatly because of the lack of people using the public lake.

The rebuilding of the dam is a very important quality of life amenity for many residents of Delaware, Dubuque and Jones counties. North Eastern Iowa has very few recreational areas like Lake Delhi to enjoy. The dam's return will be a huge economic impact to the local economy.

We can keep this economic influx here or we can let it move elsewhere. It only makes more sense to reinvest and rebuild the Lake Delhi Dam.

Dave and Mari Vorwald

Dyersville