Wisconsin Homeowners Seek $1.3 Million for Lake Delton Flooding

A damage claim that could lead to a lawsuit seeks $1.3 million from the village of Lake Delton, Wisconsin, for owners of homes demolished or swept away in flooding that drained the lake a year ago.

Village Clerk Kay Mackesey said the notice of claim was hand-delivered this week.

Five homes and nine lots were destroyed last June when flooding caused a breach in the earthen bank that formed the shore of the lake, sending a torrent of water to the nearby Wisconsin River.

The property owners received $2.3 million from the state for condemnation rights as the lakeshore and a county road along it were rebuilt. The lawsuit seeks the difference between that amount and what they contend is the fair market value of the property.

The village has denied any negligence.