Governor Culver, FEMA Announce More Than $400 Million Has Been Granted to Iowa in Public Assistance Aid 

Release Date: October 28, 2008
Release Number: 1763-206

» More Information on Iowa Severe Storms, Tornadoes, and Flooding

DES MOINES, Iowa -- Today, Governor Chet Culver and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced that more than $400 million in public assistance has been granted to the state by FEMA to help Iowa communities rebuild from the devastation of this year's severe storms, tornadoes and flooding.

"I'm pleased that we've been able to work with our federal and local partners to not only identify communities needing assistance, but then also get the assistance into their hands," said Governor Chet Culver. "In recent weeks, we've seen millions of dollars come to affected Iowans, and more money is on its way. We know the recovery process is just beginning, but this aid has been critical for communities who have started to rebuild."

After a disaster strikes, eligible applicants work with the Iowa Homeland Security and Emergency Management Division and FEMA to assess damage and calculate the assistance needed to repair and rebuild. The partners work together to make sure local governments and agencies receive every eligible dollar of assistance available to them.

"State and local officials work diligently with applicants and federal agencies to provide this assistance," said Federal Coordinating Officer Bill Vogel. "We will continue this collaboration to ensure a steady pace of recovery in Iowa as long as needed."

State and federal representatives work one-on-one with eligible applicants to assess costs for reimbursement or determine proposed project costs. Once approved, FEMA authorizes the funding to the state, which then distributes it to local recipients. Federal funds cover 90 percent of the cost of these projects; the state pays the remaining 10 percent.

FEMA coordinates the federal government's role in preparing for, preventing, mitigating the effects of, responding to, and recovering from all domestic disasters, whether natural or man-made, including acts of terror.

Last Modified: Tuesday, 28-Oct-2008 11:00:14