FEMA denial on flood damage assistance for public infrastructure is a gut punch

We are extremely disappointed by the announcement today that Milwaukee will not be receiving help for public infrastructure damage from the Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA) connected to the devastation caused during the historic flooding in August.

Associate administrator for the Office of Response and Recovery at FEMA, Keith Turi, stated that based on the results of preliminary damage assessments, the “public assistance program … is not warranted.”

The move by the Trump Administration to deny assistance for such clear, extensive and widespread damage to public infrastructure in Milwaukee (including school buildings, electrical systems, and other structures) means Milwaukee taxpayers could end up paying the bills. The denial is very clearly telling Milwaukee and other affected communities across southeast Wisconsin, “figure it out because you are on your own.”

Governor Evers requested federal assistance in late August for Milwaukee, Door, Grant, Ozaukee, Washington and Waukesha counties to help with damage to public infrastructure from the storm. The Governor has indicated that he will appeal the decision by FEMA.

The FEMA Public Assistance program provides grants to “state, local and tribal governments,” as well as some nonprofits. The federal assistance can help repair roads, public buildings, bridges, public schools and public utilities.

We sincerely hope the Governor’s appeal is heard and that the decision to deny assistance is reconsidered and reversed.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.