Monmouth Disaster Recovery Centers to Remain Open
LONG BRANCH, NJ—Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) announced today that the Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) located in Leonardo and Union Beach, which were scheduled to close February 28th and March 5th, respectively, will remain open until April 1st. Pallone sent a letter to Federal Emergency Management Agency Administrator (FEMA), Craig Fugate yesterday calling on him to halt the planned closure of the DRCs, citing the needs of many Monmouth County residents still requiring assistance registering with the agency and making claims with the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).
“I called on FEMA to keep the DRCs open because I have talked to too many families that still need help to justify shutting them down,” said Pallone. “I’m pleased to learn that FEMA has agreed to my request and will continue to provide vital services that will help residents get back on their feet from Sandy’s devastation.”
The following is the text of the letter Pallone sent to FEMA on Thursday, February 28th:
February 28, 2013
W. Craig Fugate
Administrator
Federal Emergency Management Agency
U.S. Department of Homeland Security
500 C Street SW
Washington, DC 20472
Dear Administrator Fugate,
I write today regarding the planned closure of the two remaining Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) in Monmouth County, New Jersey. My office was notified today that the DRCs in Leonardo and Union Beach will be closing February 28th and March 5th, respectively. I respectfully request that you continue operation of a DRC in Monmouth County so that residents and businesses can continue to meet with FEMA staff as they move forward with the recovery process. I also request that the FEMA registration period for New Jersey be extended for one month, which has been done in New York.
Much work remains to be done to help homeowners and businesses recover from the historic damage caused by Hurricane Sandy. While I understand the registration deadline is approaching, many residents still have questions about their settlements and claims that require the assistance of FEMA representatives. These DRCs also serve as a local hub for all recovery activity in the area, with volunteer groups and local officials based nearby so residents can have their issues addressed all in one place.
Further, I am still seriously concerned about the slow pace at which National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) claims are being paid out in New Jersey. I have yet to receive a response to the letter I sent to you on February 6th outlining several problems my constituents are facing with delays in processing NFIP claims. As of last Friday, according to FEMA data, over 24,000 claims remain open in New Jersey.
Homeowners and business owners in New Jersey are still struggling as they work to rebuild after this devastating storm. I believe it is the responsibly of FEMA to be present in the community to help them as this process moves forward.
Sincerely,
FRANK PALLONE, JR.
Member of Congress