By Mark Scott
Buffalo, NY – President Bush Tuesday night signed a disaster declaration for the Western New York counties hit hardest by the massive winter storm.
Representatives of the Federal Emergency Management Agency say the disaster declaration makes federal funding available to individuals in Erie, Niagara, Genesee and Orleans Counties. They say the assistance includes grants to help pay for temporary housing, home repairs and other disaster-related expenses.
Federal Coordinating Officer Peter Martinasco said the first step for residents who sustained losses is to register for assistance by calling 1-800-621-FEMA.
"We will send out an inspector. The inspector will look at the damage and make their report," Martinasco said. "If it's deemed a grant is necessary, within three or four days the money will be placed in their bank accounts."
The disaster declaration will also mean more financial assistance for local governments facing huge costs for debris removal and infrastructure repairs. Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown said the city has been carefully documenting its expenses in anticipation of the extra assistance.
"We did it according to the FEMA regulations, trusting that we would be able to get the reimbursement," Brown said. "Today, we know with certainty beyond a shadow of a doubt that the reimbursement will be here."
Martinasco said the cost of spoiled food is not eligible for reimbursement. Neither is the cost of damaged trees unless they pose a threat to a person's home. The cost of buying a generator is also not eligible unless it was purchased for medical purposes.
Still, FEMA officials stressed last night that residents themselves should not make the determination on whether they're eligible for help. They urge people to call 1-800-621-FEMA and let the agency make the determination.
People may also register online at FEMA's website.