Flood Control To Purchase Flooded Homes
Release Date: October 31, 2003
Release Number: R6-03-146
Denton, TX -- The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) said today it has obligated $5,371,404 to the State of Texas to buy 57 repetitive loss houses. Since Tropical Storm Allison hit Harris County in June 2001, FEMA has awarded the Harris County Flood Control District more than $25 million for acquisition projects.
"Acquisition of repetitively flooded homes saves money in future floods and prevents families from worrying every time heavy rains threaten the Houston area," said Michael D. Brown, Under Secretary of Homeland Security for Emergency Preparedness and Response. "This project, with mitigation plans, building standards and other flood prevention projects, makes Harris County a safer community."
The county will purchase the flood-damaged property, demolish all improvements and remove all debris. The property will then be allowed to return to its natural state as part of the flood plain.
FEMA's Hazard Mitigation Grant Program provides 75 percent of the project's nearly $7.2 million cost. The remaining 25 percent comes from local resources. Homeowner participation in this project is voluntary and homes will be purchased at their pre-disaster value.
On March 1, 2003, FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. FEMA's continuing mission within the new department is to lead the effort to prepare the nation for all hazards and effectively manage federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates proactive mitigation activities, trains first responders, and manages Citizen Corps, the National Flood Insurance Program and the U.S. Fire Administration
Last Modified: Friday, 31-Oct-2003 15:12:20