Wow, the devestation of Katrina just keeps unfolding. What do y’all think about rebuilding New Orleans and other communities affected by this storm? I know if something like that happened in Appleton, I’d have a really tough time picking up and moving elsewhere. Although I think denial contributed to the magnitude of this problem, I do feel we as a country should do everything we can to help those affected get back on their feet.

Those who lost property or life should be completely compensated. However, I think people in the area should only be bailed out once. If you choose to rebuild and live/work there, it should be you, your state, and your communities responsibilities to cover the damage through increased insurance. Another hurricane, even one of Katrina’s magnitude, is innevitable. I’m happy my tax money is being used to help those in need right now, but I’d be disappointed if we had to continually bail them out when they know full well the consequences of building in such an area. Perhaps this wasn’t as much of an issue when their communities were being built, but our transforming climate has changed all that.

I have absolutely no problem if people want to rebuild in the area, just as I don’t have a problem with people building on coastal properties of Florida that are regularly affected by hurricanes. However, just as I have to pay higher insurance rates if I choose a risky lifestyle, the same should apply to those who build in hurricane alley. I feel sad for the death and descruction, but I might consider it foolish to tempt fate again.

As a wise man once said, “Fool me once, shame on you … You can’t get fooled again.”

Perhaps in my sheltered view from up here in Wisconsin I’m not seeing things as clearly. I welcome your comments.