Senator Gallivan Urges Governor to Provide Assistance to West Seneca Flood Victims

Senator Patrick M. Gallivan (R-C-I, Elma) is calling on Governor Cuomo to provide disaster aid to residents of the Town of West Seneca impacted by severe flooding this past winter that damaged more than 70 homes and businesses.  While the state has provided funding to help the town with costs incurred for storm damage and cleanup, individual residents have not received any financial assistance.

“The state has an obligation to assist residents and businesses impacted by natural disasters.  We have done so in the past for the victims of Hurricane Irene and Superstorm Sandy.  Now it’s time to help the residents of West Seneca who suffered tremendous property damage caused by the harsh winter weather,” Gallivan said.

In a letter to the governor, Gallivan suggests the state use money set aside in the operations budget to assist localities that have suffered from natural and man-made disasters.  Gallivan’s office is also working with the New York State Home and Community Renewal Agency to secure possible funding.

Dozens of homes were damaged over the winter by flooding along Buffalo Creek, with some homeowners reporting several feet of water in their basement.  Some cars were also damaged by the flood waters and large chunks of ice.

“Many of these residents have nowhere else to turn as they try to recover from the damage caused by these floods.  They need our help,” Gallivan said.

In September, the state announced $500,000 in funding to help the Town of West Seneca with costs associated with the flood, but the money did not go to individual families or businesses.  

The town is also working with the Department of Environmental Conservation to prevent future flooding along Buffalo Creek. 

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