I understand that the Chatuge Dam Spillway needs repair. While we understand that safety is the top priority, I support the alternative proposed by Congressman Andrew Clyde to build a Cofferdam, which provides a safe alternative, while saving the economies of Towns County Georgia and Clay County North Carolina from destruction.
- The original TVA proposal of a Lake Chatuge drawdown to 18 feet below full pool for up to 8 years would destroy the economies of Towns and Clay counties.
- Towns County alone derives $95 million each year from tourism, generating $6.1 million in state and local taxes, equivalent to $1,125 for every household in the county.
- A multi-year drawdown would decrease tourism by as much as 80% or more, bankrupting many local restaurants, marinas, retailers, realtors and other service businesses that rely on tourism.
- Property values will plummet, in fact they already have. Local realtors report that many potential buyers have already stopped their search for a home on Lake Chatuge.
- Unemployment will skyrocket, and taxes will rise for all citizens.
