Published: August 14, 2009 01:27 pm      

Flood victims urged to report damage in Floyd County

Rep. Ed Clere hosts meeting at library

Nearly 50 flood victims voiced their concerns and received information on applying for emergency assistance during a public meeting with state Rep. Ed Clere, R-New Albany, Thursday evening at the New Albany- Floyd County Public Library. Clere encouraged all victims to report any property damage to the Indiana Department of Homeland Security immediately.

In order for the county to qualify for individual aid from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, at least 25 properties must be reported and evaluated by Floyd County’s Emergency Management Agency and ultimately deemed major losses by Tuesday. Only four properties have met these criteria thus far.

“I wish I could just stand here and write checks,” Clere said. “But unfortunately, the system doesn’t work that way.”

When filing a damage report, losses can include structural damage and loss of personal property. This information is forwarded to the Indiana Department of Homeland Security, which typically responds within 48 hours, according to Terry Herthel, director of the county’s EMA. Officials assess damage to determine if federal assistance can be pursued.

Regardless of whether or not an individual plans to seek federal assistance, victims are encouraged to report any water damage. The volume of reports filed could help the community receive assistance, Clere said.

Several individuals voiced concerns when their properties were not evaluated after they completed damage reports online through the Indiana Department of Homeland Security’s Web site. Clere said this type of meeting is important to resolve such breakdowns in communication.

“I’m not going to go to every wet carpet — we can’t,” Herthel said.

Other citizens were concerned with the county’s disaster preparedness, particularly residents in floodplain areas near downtown.

“I know there are folks who have suffered major damage,” Clere said. “It’s critical to report damage. Their reports could help the community as a whole.”

Individuals can report damage by calling 866-210-1925 or filling out a damage report online through the Indiana Department of Homeland Security’s Web site at www.in.gov/dhs.