Chapel Hill plaza flooded out by Chantal one month ago faces 'an enormous bill'

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. (WTVD) -- Rebuilding efforts continue in Mariakakis Plaza nearly one month after Tropical Storm Chantal caused widespread flooding there. The owner, Johnny Mariakakis, said it's been a tough month for all seven businesses in his plaza. Between contractors and his tenants, he is still trying to figure out his next steps.

"We have an enormous bill. I still have flood insurance, but it's going to be tapped out completely. I'm going to be selling some stock, using a line of credit, and try to limp along," said Mariakakis.

His family has owned this plaza since 1959. He said flooding forced two of the seven businesses in the plaza to leave. None of his tenants had flood insurance on their contents, which included things such as cash registers, computers, printers, and other items.

RELATED | Low-interest federal loans being offered for Chantal relief

Rebuilding efforts continue with contractors gutting the buildings and treating them for mold, but in University Plaza, some businesses have reopened. Monday was the first day open for Stoney River Steakhouse and Grill since the storm.

For small-business owners, this tropical storm took their livelihoods away. It's been an emotional month.

"We generate sales tax for the county. We generate salaries for employees that pay income tax. We pay property taxes. We give to the community. We just want to continue," said Mariakakis.

The owner said he's hoping to have businesses open by September.

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