July 2, 2008

Flood recovery will build a stronger Iowa

Flood recovery resources

Flood recovery will build a stronger Iowa

Because of the 2008 floods and storms, the last six weeks have been trying for Iowans across the state.  The response by local citizens, community leaders, volunteer groups, and state and federal agencies has been phenomenal.  And the recovery effort is only just beginning.

Here’s where we stand.  Seventy-eight counties have been declared Presidential Disaster Areas.  The damage is breathtaking and estimates so far total in the tens of billions of dollars. 

Years of preparation has helped limit the loss of life and property damage.  Now the focus moves to reconstruction after the worst natural disaster in our state’s history.  Flood recovery will continue to be an important issue in our state for the next several years.

Recently, legislative leaders joined Iowa Governor Chet Culver and Adjutant General Ron Dardis of the Iowa National Guard to announce a 15-member Rebuild Iowa Commission.  This panel will assess the storms’ impact, recommend initial steps for recovery, and develop a long-term vision for rebuilding.  Throughout the process, the group will work with citizens and stakeholders at all levels of the private sector and government. 

When the Legislature convenes again, either in special session or in the next legislative session, we will be ready to act.  We will have listened to local officials and local leaders.  We will have an accurate assessment of the amount of federal aid, which funded much of the 1993 flood recovery effort, and of private insurance resources.  We will also have a long-term understanding of what is required to restore prosperity to our state. 

Legislators from both sides of the aisle are helping Iowans and local communities rebuild.  We serve as advocates for our communities and constituents. 

If I can help you or your organization as you work with state or federal agencies, please let me know.

Flood recovery resources

I know many of you are facing losses and damage to your homes, businesses and farms.  I encourage you to take advantage of the variety of help that is available.  For complete and up-to-date information, go to www.flood2008.iowa.gov.  This comprehensive site includes information on financial assistance, recovery efforts, road closures, volunteer opportunities, donations, photos, and helpful links and resources. 

Here in Linn County and in 53 other counties across the state, the President has declared a disaster for individual assistance, which means that more than $28,000 may be available to you under federal programs.

In these counties, homeowners, renters, business owners and non-profit organizations can apply for the federal benefits online at www.fema.gov/assistance/index.shtm or call toll free to 1-800-621-3362.

In addition, 77 counties across the state have been approved for public assistance through a Presidential Disaster Declaration.  Public Assistance funds from the federal government will be used to provide temporary employment on clean-up projects at public structures, facilities, and lands.  Funds will also be used for humanitarian assistance for disaster victims.

For the 2008 flood recovery effort, the federal government has agreed to pay 90 percent of the direct costs incurred by state and local governments.  Normally, the federal government picks up only 75 percent of the cost of public assistance for flood recovery.