Schumer Calls On FEMA To Reverse Decision To Deny $1 Million-Plus For Buffalo In Wake Of October's Devastating Snow Storms

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Schumer Calls On FEMA To Reverse Decision To Deny $1 Million-Plus For Buffalo In Wake Of October's Devastating Snow Storms

U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer today criticized a Federal Emergency Management Decision (FEMA) decision to not cover the cost of removing more than 7,000 dangerous and unsightly tree stumps still in place after the October snow storms. According to City of Buffalo officials, the cost of removing the debris could cost more than $1.4 million. FEMA has informed the City that it will not fully cover the costs. Schumer today wrote to FEMA Administrator David Paulison asking him to overturn the decision to deny the city this much needed aid.

"After working together well for many months, FEMA can't just wipe its hands and walk away from Buffalo. You don't abandon your partner before the job is done," Schumer said. "These stumps, which are unsightly and risky, are a stubborn legacy of the surprise storm. The bottom line is FEMA needs to deliver this much needed aid so the City of Buffalo can finally complete the clean up process."

As a result of the freak snowstorm that slammed the Buffalo area in October of 2006, and destroyed thousands of trees, there are 7,000 tree stumps throughout the City that present a lasting danger, if they are not dealt with. According to Schumer, the stumps must be removed for safety, but the City can not finance this project alone.

These stumps present a serious threat to those living in and visiting Buffalo. The City is concerned that it is only a matter of time before a pedestrian trips over a stump and injures themselves. The City is further concerned that anyone who suffers an injury from these hazardous tree stumps may hold the City liable - a cost that it can not shoulder.

At a cost of $200 per stump extraction, the local government estimates that this project will cost nearly $1.4 million.

In his letter, Schumer wrote, "The Buffalo area simply cannot bear this financial burden placed upon it by unexpectedly severe storms. I strongly encourage you to find this removal process eligible for reimbursable funds through Public Assistance."

Through the Public Assistance Program, FEMA provides supplemental Federal disaster grant assistance for the repair, replacement, or restoration of disaster-damaged, publicly owned facilities and the facilities of certain Private Non-Profit (PNP) organizations. Under this program, FEMA defines debris removal as the clearance, removal, and/or disposal of items such as trees, sand, gravel, building components, wreckage, vehicles, and personal property.

On October 15, 2006, Schumer visited Buffalo immediately following the snowstorm to survey the damage. He successfully urged the President to make a Major Disaster Declaration which released millions of dollars in federal aid for storm victims. Following the storms Schumer was in close contact with FEMA and the SBA to ensure that aid would be available to those whose homes and businesses were damaged.

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