CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- One hundred and ninety-two residents of the Cavalier Apartments in west Charlotte have been told they have to move.

After several years of flooding at the apartments, including in 1995, 1997 and 2003, Mecklenburg County bought the complex for $6.5 million. County officials said they hope to not only save homes from flooding but also save lives.

David Canaan of Mecklenburg County Storm Water Services said, "The longer apartments stay there, there's an increase in the chance of loss of life."

Canaan said the Cavalier Apartments were built in 1971 before the federal law restricted building on a flood plain. He said letting families stay would mean paying for rescues or repairs after the next flood.

"It's four times more beneficial to buy them today than to let them remain in the flood plain," he said.

With almost $3 million in federal and local funds, the county will help move the families to new homes.

The families could get up to $5,000 towards an increase in rent or use it towards the purchase of a home. They'll also get $900 to help them move.

IMAGES: Past Flood Waters At East Charlotte Apartment Complex

LINK: Mecklenburg County Flood Maps

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