Clarifying FEMA Public Assistance
We’ve learned there is some confusion about FEMA Public Assistance and we’d like to offer a few clarifications.
First, it’s important to understand that FEMA assistance is not guaranteed.
The Colorado Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (DHSEM) worked with Rio Blanco County and local partners to document damage and submit reports supporting a request for federal disaster assistance to Governor Polis. On Sept. 26, Governor Polis formally requested a Major Disaster Declaration from President Trump and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
The decision now rests with President Trump, and there is no deadline for him to approve or deny the request.
If approved, FEMA Public Assistance does not provide “up front” funds; it is a reimbursement grant program available to government and certain private nonprofit organizations to support specific types of work when eligibility thresholds have been met.
In Rio Blanco County’s case, FEMA Public Assistance would reimburse 75% of eligible expenses for White River Electric Association (WREA) and Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association. Together, WREA and Tri-State expect to spend approximately $24 million to repair local utility infrastructure.
It’s also important to note that the FEMA Public Assistance program primarily assists government entities; it does not reimburse individuals for property loss or damage. Individuals should contact their insurance provider, then work with the White River and Douglas Creek Conservation District to learn about other federal assistance programs that may be available to landowners.
For more details, please see this overview of FEMA’s Public Assistance Program: https://www.congress.gov/crs-product/IF11529.
We hope you’ll join us Nov. 1 at the Fairfield Center for “Ashes to Action.” We’ll provide updated recovery information at the 5 p.m. briefing, then presenters will be available in the lobby area with additional information and opportunities to ask questions while visiting and enjoying a community potluck.
Ashes to Action update:
Join us Nov. 1 at the Fairfield Center for at Ashes to Action, a community briefing on post-fire recovery efforts.
After the briefing at 5 p.m., Rio Blanco County and partners will host a potluck “soup supper” and be available in the lobby area with additional information and opportunity for follow up questions.
Chili and soup will be provided by Rio Blanco County staff and friends at White River & Douglas Creek Conservation District, Farm Bureau, and the White River Fire Protection District.
Community members and organizations are encouraged to bring salads, side dishes and desserts to round out the menu. Please RSVP to [email protected], or 878-9575 to coordinate.
Cash bar provided by the Lions Club.
Jennifer O’Hearon,
Doug Overton,
Callie Scritchfield