Formal Signing Ceremony To Be Held Between The Hopi Tribe And Fema For Disaster Aid 

Release Date: March 29, 2005
Release Number: 1581-007

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PHOENIX, Ariz. -- The signing of a formal agreement between the Hopi Tribe and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to implement disaster recovery relief will occur in a March 30th ceremony in Kykotsmovi Village tribal chambers at 2 p.m. The signing of this document reflects the working partnership between the sovereign Hopi Tribe and FEMA.

“I am pleased to able to work directly with the Hopi Tribe in addressing their disaster-related needs,” said FEMA Federal Coordinating Officer Sandy Coachman. “A FEMA liaison continues to coordinate with the Tribe’s leadership, and several other FEMA personnel will remain in the field working with staff from the Tribe to support completion of joint disaster-related tasks.”

The signing of this agreement initiates the process by which the federal government can release funds to assist in repairing public facilities damaged by the severe winter storms and flooding that occurred between December 28 and January 12.

“FEMA’s immediate response to the needs of the Hopi people after the prolonged rains and flooding in Northern Arizona demonstrates their commitment to serving rural communities. We look forward to working with FEMA representatives and are excited about the possibilities for the Hopi Tribe,” said Vanessa Charles, public relations officer for the Hopi Tribe.

President George W. Bush declared the disaster on February 17, making governmental entities and certain qualifying private non-profit organizations in the declared areas eligible for assistance. FEMA reimbursement covers debris removal, emergency protective measures, and the repair or replacement of damaged public facilities.

FEMA prepares the nation for all hazards and effectively manages federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates mitigation activities, trains first responders, and manages the National Flood Insurance Program and the U.S. Fire Administration. FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security on March 1, 2003.

Last Modified: Wednesday, 30-Mar-2005 08:21:23