Valley Reps Call For Disaster Aid For Herkimer County

HERKIMER, 06/28/13 -- State legislators representing the Mohawk Valley are calling on the governor to formally request a federal disaster declaration for Herkimer County to assist with repair costs associated with flooding damage on June 27-28, 2013.

Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I – Oneonta) said, “At a time when local government officials are already working on the thinnest of margins, adding disaster repair costs could be devastating.  I appreciate the rapid response from the State Emergency Management Office (SEMO), now long-term financial assistance is needed to help communities rebuild.”

Senator Hugh T. Farley (R/C/I – Schenectady) said, “While the damage assessment and clean-up are ongoing, it is vital that local officials know they will have state and federal support to assist them in what will certainly be a costly recovery.”

Assemblyman Marc Butler (R/C/I – Newport) said, “The physical damage left by this storm is devastating.  We need to ensure that financial ruin does not follow for local municipalities as they work to clean-up and rebuild.”

Assemblywoman Claudia Tenney (R/C/I – New Hartford) said, "When a disaster strikes, response must be swift.  Securing state and federal assistance is crucial to ensure public roads and bridges are repaired quickly and safely."

Assemblyman Anthony Brindisi (D – Utica) said, “Repair costs following this week’s flash flooding will wreak havoc with local government budgets.  Albany and Washington need to express their full support.”

The legislator’s letter to Governor Cuomo states:

“Flooding along the Mohawk River, tributaries of the West Canada Creek and other rivers has closed and damaged public infrastructure that includes bridges and roads due to heavy rainfall.  Residential, business, and municipal damage will be significant.

“Repairs and future flood mitigation measures will require federal and state assistance.  For these reasons, we urge a rapid assessment by SEMO and quick action to request a federal disaster declaration.”

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