In the News

It appears local tornado victims are going to have to rely on state, local and private sector assistance to recover unless some federal assistance comes by way of a Community Development Block Grant.

Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell announced Saturday afternoon that Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) denied his request for an emergency declaration that would have freed up federal assistance for tornado victims in Pulaski and other counties affected by tornadoes during April.

Ten people were killed, about 212 homes were destroyed and more than 1,000 were damaged when 29 tornadoes struck across the state during April.

"We are very disappointed that FEMA did not grant disaster assistance for Virginians still working to recover from the tornadoes," said McDonnell.

"We are examining the possibility of appealing the decision, but in the meantime, state resources will continue to support the efforts of local governments and volunteer organizations that are helping our citizens recover,” said McDonnell.

Assistant Pulaski County Administrator Robert Hiss echoed McDonnell’s disappointment.

"It is disappointing as FEMA would have provided the best comprehensive resource to help those residents who are not insured or are under insured,” he said.

Hiss indicated Pulaski town and county will continue to use and request additional help from the state, private sector and volunteer agencies on behalf of those affected by the April 8 tornadoes.

“We remain committed to repair and rebuild the affected neighborhoods as the spirit of our citizens will ultimately prove to be the best resource," said Hiss.

He pointed out that Virginia’ Department of Housing and Community Development has awarded both the town and county a $25,000 planning grant to complete a detailed assessment of “living conditions of those impacted” so a long-term recovery plan can be developed.

Hiss said the goal of the planning grant is to apply for over $1 million in housing rehabilitation funds to be used in the affected areas.

These funds would be available in about 90 days, if the grant is funded.

New River Valley HOME Consortium is assisting with the process.

Republican Ninth District Congressman Morgan Griffith also expressed disappointment in FEMA’s decision.

“Apparently, we can spend all sorts of money on many frivolous federal programs, but not for those who are truly in need of disaster relief,” Griffith said. “I urge the Governor to appeal this decision so that the people affected by these devastating storms in Southwest Virginia get the support they need to begin rebuilding.”

Griffith said state legislators have sent letters to the Barack Obama Administration over the past two weeks supporting McDonnell’s request and urging the president to grant federal disaster assistance.

McDonnell thanked legislators for their support.

"I want to thank local elected officials, state legislators and especially our congressional members for their strong, unwavering, bipartisan support of our request," he said.

FEMA also denied Virginia’s request for the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, which provides funds for government projects that help reduce disaster risks by protecting homes and businesses against future damage.

McDonnell requested federal disaster assistance for the counties of Halifax, Pulaski and Washington. He also asked FEMA to include April 8-28 as one incident period so other localities, such as Gloucester and Middlesex, could be added later.

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