Cerro Grande Fire Mitigation Meeting Scheduled
Release Date: August 22, 2003
Release Number: R6-03-84
Denton, TX -- The Office of Cerro Grande Fire Claims (OCGFC) will hold a community meeting in Los Alamos to discuss homeowner mitigation projects for those whose homes were burned in the Cerro Grande Fire.
"Mitigation projects were funded for eligible homeowners in Los Alamos," said OCGFC Director Stephen Oliver, "with the goal of protecting lives and property from future disasters."
Oliver explained that those who received the funds are required to either complete the approved protective measures before August 28, 2003, to have contracted to have the work completed, or have purchased the supplies to complete the work themselves. Claimants must give an accounting of the funds spent on the project.
In order to ensure that the work is accomplished, OCGFC will begin inspections of individual mitigation projects in September. Inspectors will continue their work until inspections are completed.
The purpose of the public meeting is to help mitigation funds recipients meet deadlines and the requirements under the law:
What: Office of Cerro Grande Fire Claims Mitigation Meeting
When: 6:30 p.m., Thursday, August 28, 2003
Where: Fuller Lodge, 2132 Central Ave., Los Alamos, New Mexico
Those who need guidance with mitigation projects prior to the public meeting may contact Mike Williams at the toll-free number, 888-748-1853.
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: Tuesday, 26-Aug-2003 08:58:25