Kankakee County, IL – A new voluntary buyout program offers relocation options for tornado-affected homeowners in flood-prone areas.
According to a press release shared on the Kankakee County Board’s Facebook page, the Kankakee County Planning Department has introduced a floodplain buyout program following the March 10 tornado. The initiative is supported by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and is aimed at residents whose properties are located in high-risk floodplain zones.
Officials said the program gives eligible homeowners the option to sell their properties rather than rebuild in areas vulnerable to future flooding. Participation is entirely voluntary, and residents are not required to pursue a buyout.
The program is designed to reduce long-term risk while offering an alternative path forward for those whose homes were damaged or impacted by the tornado. County officials emphasized that rebuilding in certain flood-prone locations may not be the safest or most sustainable option.
Residents interested in learning more about eligibility requirements or the application process are encouraged to contact Planning Department Director Delbert Skimerhorn directly at 815-937-2940.
The announcement comes as recovery efforts continue across the county following the March severe weather event, which caused widespread damage in parts of the region.
For commuters and younger residents in affected households, the program may influence future housing stability and relocation decisions within the county.
