Senator Marty Golden Calls On Governor Spitzer To Declare State Of Disaster In Storm Ravaged Nyc

Brooklyn- State Senator Marty Golden is calling on Governor Eliot Spitzer to immediately issue a disaster declaration for parts of southwest Brooklyn and other communities in New York City in response to the tornado and flash flooding that ripped through the area.

"In response to today’s devastating storms, I am calling on Governor Spitzer to declare parts of southwest Brooklyn a disaster area," said Senator Marty Golden (R,C-Brooklyn). "I have witnessed the significant damage caused by the winds and flash flooding which requires a rapid and coordinated response. It’s imperative that the Governor acts quickly and does the right thing for these communities so that the people have access to all resources and financial assistance."

Golden continued, "I have met with residents of the effected blocks in Bay Ridge and have witnessed devastation and destruction to homes, cars and trees. Thousands of residents have been effected by this, what appears to have been a tornado, and we are working with the City to insure all services are made available to assist in this cleanup. I commend Mayor Bloomberg and the entire City administration for their immediate and effective response."

On Wednesday, August 08, 2007, the National Weather Service issued a tornado warning for parts of New York City and the surrounding communities. The powerful storms uprooted trees, caused power failures and left the mass transportation system in chaos.

"Damage of this magnitude will require significant financial assistance from the City, State and Federal government to help the storm victims recover. I vow to work with the City and each homeowner, small business owner, car owners and others to get them back on their feet. We must declare our community a state of emergency so that we will qualify for federal funding to rebuild. It is necessary to home and business owners, a local Presbyterian Church."

Golden concluded, "In the days ahead I urge residents to stay cool and drink a lot of water. There are some power problems reported that will effect air conditioning and fans. Heat exhaustion is dangerous must be taken seriously. We have activated CERT 1 NYC through my office that stands ready to assist residents and Our Lady of Angels and Xaverian High School have offered space to aid local residents. Additionally, there are cooling centers available and the information can be obtained by calling 311."

-30-