newjerseynewsroom.com

In the aftermath of the flood and wind damage caused by Tropical Storm Irene (downgraded from hurricane before it made landfall in N.J.) four months ago, the state government this week disbursed over $10 million in disaster assistance to local governments and other public agencies and eligible non-profit organizations for storm-related expenses.

The amount is in addition to more than $166 million in federal assistance to individuals and households impacted by the storm that heavily damaged New Jersey communities.

Tropical Storm Irene struck on Aug. 27, resulting in a Presidential Disaster Declaration on Aug. 31. More than 4,500 local government expense reimbursements were submitted to the Federal Emergency Management Agency through the state Office of Emergency Management. To date, the two areas of expenses designated to receive the most funding are emergency protective measures and debris removal.

During the weekend of Aug. 13-15, storms and flooding struck Cumberland, Gloucester and Salem counties, resulting in a second Presidential Disaster Declaration on Sept. 15.

Additional areas of expenses that are slated to receive funds include permanent work projects, such as road and bridge repair; water control facilities and utilities restoration; repair or replacement of public buildings and equipment, and restoration or repair of parks and other recreational facilities.

The Office of Emergency Management works with FEMA, providing technical assistance to applicants. FEMA approves the reimbursement of local government expenses, which provide at least 75 percent of the eligible costs of repair and replacement to those who qualify. The state is accountable for use of the funds and is responsible for disbursing the funds.

Funds to 49,108 individuals and households, totaling over $166.5 million, have been approved by FEMA under the Disaster Declaration received for Irene. The Small Business Administration has approved over $104 million in low-interest loans to 2,722 homeowners and business impacted by the Irene.

“New Jersey’s long-term recovery from Tropical Storm Irene and other natural disasters continues with steady progress,” Gov. Chris Christie said. “The reimbursements to local governments for emergency response activities, debris clearance and other protective measures are enhancing fiscal recovery in these communities. State Emergency Management and Treasury officials worked to accelerate these payments so that they were made before the end of the municipal budget year, to benefit local property taxpayers.”

—TOM HESTER SR., NEWJERSEYNEWSROOM.COM