One Week Left To Request Federal Funds For Storm Damage 

Release Date: February 28, 2008
Release Number: 1742-003

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

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. -- State and local officials, county agencies, and certain private non-profit organizations in nine Missouri counties have one week left to submit a Request for Public Assistance (RPA) for federal funds after the severe winter storm in January, disaster recovery officials announced today.

The deadline to submit the one-page RPA is Thursday, March 6.

The president's disaster declaration, issued on February 5, designated nine counties eligible for federal public assistance: Barry, Dallas, Laclede, Maries, McDonald, Newton, Phelps, Stone and Webster.

Representatives from the State of Missouri Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) and the U. S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) held several detailed applicants’ briefings throughout the disaster area for officials of governmental organizations, local officials and private non-profits to explain what costs are eligible and the procedures for requesting reimbursement.

Public officials and other eligible applicants who were unable to attend the briefings and want to file an RPA may call SEMA at 573-526-9114, -9131, or -9203 to submit their RPAs before the deadline.

To date, 27 RPAs have been received. Once an RPA is received it is processed by the state, and a FEMA/SEMA public assistance officer is assigned to work in partnership with the applicant to provide comprehensive information, explanations, and technical assistance. The public assistance officers assist in documenting expenses, determining eligible costs for reimbursement, and review project worksheets. Eligible costs include debris removal, emergency protective measures (such as police, fire and medical), road and bridge repair, and repair and restoration of public buildings, utilities and recreational facilities.

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: Thursday, 28-Feb-2008 13:29:04