February disaster declaration adds to available funds
WATERBURY, VT – Money is available for Vermont communities for the purpose of mitigating the effects of future disasters on public infrastructure and some private property. Communities, tribal organizations, and private non-profit organizations may still apply for Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) funds following the most recent federal disaster declaration and previous disasters.
HMGP grants cover up to 75% of costs associated with lessening the potential damage from a future disaster. Projects like flood-proofing of public buildings, culvert replacement, riverbank stabilization and many others have been completed in the past under the HMGP with local jurisdictions paying for 25% of the work.
Applicants may download the HMGP application from the Vermont Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security website athttp://vem.vermont.gov/mitigation. DEMHS staff will assist in the application process; towns can contact Ray Doherty, at 802-241-5258 or ray.doherty@state.vt.us, or Misha Bailey at 802-241-5362 or misha.bailey@state.vt.us for assistance.
The next deadline for applications is May 1, 2015. Communities are encouraged to apply or contact DEMHS as soon as possible.
February Public Assistance Disaster Declaration Update
A total of 54 applications from Vermont communities and municipal utilities were received for federal Public Assistance disaster reimbursement ahead of the March 3rd deadline. Those entities are seeking 75% federal reimbursement for response to and recovery from the severe winter storm in December. The PA program is different from the HMGP in that PA reimburses applicants for response and recovery costs.
The Vermont Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security is working with applicants and the Federal Emergency Management Agency to determine eligible reimbursement costs in order to move applications through the federal system. FEMA has opened a Joint Field Office in South Burlington to work with VT DEMHS to process those applications.
