Spencer, Iowa (NorthwestIowaNow.com) — It’s been over a year and a half since flood waters devastated nearly 80 percent of Spencer, and while visible scars on our streets have faded, the recovery for many families is far from finished. Northwest Iowa Now dot com got an update from Megan Hanges, Director of Clay County Long Term Recovery Group, and she says that in in 2026, their mission remains critical.

 

The recovery landscape has shifted. Federal programs have closed, and case management has transitioned to entirely to local control. Hanges says her team is currently reviewing a list of 440 case files transferred from other agencies to ensure no one falls through the cracks. And they are still receiving NEW clients at THIS stage.

Looking ahead, LTRG is actively building a framework to ensure Clay County is stronger in the future. Hanges is working with city officials to develop ‘COAD” – Community Organizations Active in Disaster.

If you or someone you know still needs assistance, Hanges says to reach out to the LTRG office. That number is 712-580-5670 and email is info@claycountyltrg.org