With a number of natural drainage systems within the City of Picayune clogged with Hurricane Katrina debris, city officials hope to be able to apply for and receive grant funds to help clear up the problem.

A helicopter flight over the city last week revealed a number of drainage systems, such as Hobolochitto Creek, that still have trees lying in them.

Using the photos taken during the flight, Interim City Manager Harvey Miller said he hopes to secure funds from the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency.

Hobolochitto creek not only has trees lying in the it, but sections of the creek have winding banks. Council member Leavern Guy said he would like to see those winding sections of the creek straightened out to better move flood waters out of the city.

Guy also said he would like to start organizing brainstorming meetings where other needs for the city and the county will be discussed.

“We’re all part of this county,” Guy said.

Before Miller and the council head to Jackson to talk with state and federal leaders, Miller said he will put a package of the city’s needs together. He hopes the meetings with senators, representatives and the governor will get the city some financial help to deal with the drainage and any other city problems.

Previous talks with those same representatives and senators will be followed up by city officials checking on the status of previous requests.

“We certainly need to make sure we are on their radar when they talk about the budget,” Guy said.