Additional $3.1 million approved for Blountstown from FEMA

Panama City, Florida  — FEMA has approved two projects ($1,106,063 and $1,955,261) for a total of $3,061,324 for the state of Florida to reimburse the city of Blountstown for recovery expenses following Hurricane Michael.

The city is receiving $1,106,063 for public utilities costs including repairs to gas and water utilities, as well as restoration of electrical services citywide.

Additionally, $1,955,261 in reimbursement funding is going to the city for debris removal costs. Disaster-generated debris posed a threat to public health, safety, natural resources and tourism. Grant funds cover the cost of emergency debris cleanup activities from Oct. 10 through Nov. 24, 2018.

These grants are funded by FEMA’s Public Assistance program, an essential source of funding for communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency. The Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) works with FEMA during all phases of the PA program and reviews projects prior to FEMA final approval.

Applicants work directly with FEMA to develop projects and scopes of work. FEMA obligates funding for projects after final approval.

Once a project is obligated by FEMA, FDEM works closely with applicants to finalize grants and begin making payments. FDEM has implemented new procedures designed to ensure grant funding is provided to local communities as quickly as possible.

FEMA’s Public Assistance program provides grants to state, tribal and local governments, and certain private nonprofit organizations, including houses of worship, so communities can quickly respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies.