The City of Cherokee is receiving more than $3.8 million in federal disaster funding to repair critical infrastructure damaged in the June 2024 floods.
The money comes from the Federal Emergency Management Agency through the Department of Homeland Security and will support major repairs to the Beach Street lift station, which handles more than 99 percent of Cherokee’s wastewater before it reaches the municipal treatment plant.
City officials say the lift station suffered significant damage during the June 2024 flooding. The FEMA grant will allow the city not only to repair the facility, but also to relocate it out of the floodplain as part of a long‑term hazard‑mitigation plan. The project includes building new sewer mains and replacing manhole lids to reduce the risk of future flood damage.
Iowa Senator Chuck Grassley welcomed the announcement, saying the funding is “good news” for communities still recovering from severe storms and flooding. Grassley said he’ll continue working to ensure Iowa receives the federal support needed to rebuild after disasters.
Fourth District Congressman Randy Feenstra also highlighted the award, calling the lift station “a critical component of Cherokee’s infrastructure.” Feenstra said the federal dollars are essential for protecting public health, environmental safety and reliable wastewater service for residents and businesses. He noted he worked directly with FEMA administrators to advocate for the project.
The Cherokee award is part of a broader FEMA package totaling $5.6 million for 13 projects across Iowa. Other communities receiving funding include Spencer, Rock Valley and Newton. Adair, Clay, Lyon, Marshall, Osceola and Sioux counties also received support.
