Downriver Businesses Want Compensation From TVA

   Businesses down river from TVA's Kingston coal ash spill say it has sunk their livelihood. They want compensation.

    Resort and marina owners don't point to actual environmental damage, but perception. Arrowhead Resort and Marina owners say in this case, perception is reality and vacationers simply haven't come.

   They say cancellations started happening within a month of this billion plus gallon spill.

    Robert and Louanna Bennett have poured their lives into the Arrowhead Resort and Marina. Over the last 20 years, they've renovated every building and upgraded the docks.

    They have millions on the line and have lost tens of thousands of dollars in business this past season. About seven other Watts Bar marina owners met with TVA last Thursday wanting compensation. TVA has advised filing a claim with its insurance company.

   Arrowhead owners say this downturn is not from the recession but fear of the coal ash. Louanna Bennett said, "You'll have to come to that conclusion. "A" because of the direct comments I have and "B" the decrease of property value, the decrease of people moving to this area."

    Rhea County Executive Billy Ray Patton told us if Roane County received 43 million, Rhea County is also entitled to some compensation. Patton said the marina and home owners have legitimate complaints.

    He says lower property tax collections will also hurt the county. Another meeting is scheduled.