Murkowski Welcomes Funding to Elevate Galena Homes
Senator Still Waiting for FEMA Report on Procedural Improvements Being Made
Senator Lisa Murkowski today welcomed the news that the Yukon River town of Galena – ravaged by floods last year – will be receiving over $2.65 million in grants from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to elevate 16-17 homes to a safer height. These funds derive from FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, a pool of funds that are made available to all states following a Presidential major disaster declaration.
Though Murkowski still has many questions remaining to be answered by FEMA’s Inspector General about the flawed process where they sought to bring aid to the rural community without familiarity of its geography and challenges she is pleased that the funds are on the way to the State of Alaska to help the community rebuild itself. Last August, she left the village with a heightened focus to develop collaboration between FEMA and Alaska for the effort.
“When I sat down with these Alaskans last August, all they wanted was the materials, the opportunity and the resources to help them put their town back together,” said Murkowski. “I am hoping that this money will reach the community quickly so they can get building during what we all know is a short summer season there. However, I continue to ask for accountability and answers from FEMA about their lessons learned from last summer – and will not let this issue drop until I get them.”
(Senator Murkowski facilitates a conversation between FEMA and a Galena contractor last August. Click for video)
