The South Portland Historical Society cannot use $3,000 worth of donations that were given to rebuild the fishing shacks on Fisherman’s Point. 

Portland Maine is included in the National Flood Insurance Program, which insures buildings that are affected by flood damage. However, this does not apply to buildings constructed within a flood zone, which unfortunately includes the fishing shacks. If the South Portland Historical Society were to invest the $3,000 to the construction in the same spot, it could jeopardize the city’s viability to receive flood insurance.

Upon interviewing the South Portland Historical Society, The Beacon asked a few questions regarding the money raised so far and the overall status of the situation. The response we received was that, “It’s too early to comment on the process or hopes for the future. We have an obstacle in the way of rebuilding and we need to either find a way around the obstacle or they wouldn’t be able to be rebuilt.” 

The South Portland Historical Society additionally mentioned that they are in contact with an attorney: “I’m waiting to discuss the National Flood Insurance documents with our attorney.” It is very likely they are discussing an alternative method or a particular compromise for the reconstruction without jeopardizing the NFIP’s insurance of South Portland’s residents. 

Following the disaster on January 13th, SMCC lost an important landmark that could be seen just beyond the southern beach. Although the outcome of this issue remains unclear, the South Portland Historical Society is utilizing all their resources to overcome this obstacle.