Letter to Mr. R. David Paulison

Mr. R. David Paulison
Director
Federal Emergency Management Agency
500 C Street, SW
Washington, DC 20472

Dear Director Paulison:

I am writing to request that FEMA and the Department of Homeland Security make available to local officials in Ohio its full range of federal programs and grants, across all agencies, to assist victims of the flash flooding that caused significant damage to the city of Toledo as well as other areas in Lucas and Erie Counties.

As you are no doubt aware, Governor Bob Taft has issued an emergency declaration for Lucas County and further determined that Erie County be eligible for disaster assistance. Other parts of Northern Ohio, including Cuyahoga, Stark and Huron counties received similar designations. It is becoming clear that municipalities and local relief agencies will not be able to provide relief without Federal assistance.

Over the course of two days, dangerous storms brought several inches of rain, high winds, tornados and flash flooding in rapid succession. Many structures throughout the area suffered partial or complete destruction. Refuse crews have already removed more than 115 tons of debris from affected areas. Local officials continue to assess the damage, and fear that express the likelihood that the extent of the damage will grow.

Clearly, coordination with local officials and agencies is needed to deliver timely and efficient relief to those affected by the storms. I stand ready to work with you or your designee and offer any assistance to help bring quick and much needed relief to my community. Please do not hesitate to contact me or my staff at (202) 225-4146.

Sincerely,

MARCY KAPTUR
U.S. Representative

http://www.kaptur.house.gov/PressRelease.aspx?NewsID=1530