Assemblyman Ken Blankenbush (R,C,I-Black River) is encouraging municipalities that have sustained damage from the rising water levels of Lake Ontario to apply for disaster relief funds. Yesterday, the governor announced $10 million in new targeted assistance money for communities impacted by the recent flooding. This new funding is designated for flood recovery efforts, including repairs to flood walls, roads, sidewalks and culverts, as well as public water and sewer infrastructure. “While there is more work to be done in allocating the funds necessary to assist communities across our state, this is a much-needed first step,” said Blankenbush. “It is paramount that municipalities that have been impacted reach out to state agencies and seek the proper assistance.” Jefferson and St. Lawrence counties are two of eight counties across the state to have declared a state of emergency. Municipalities within these counties should contact the Department of Homes and Community Renewal to apply for recovery funds. The state has also dispatched Emergency Response Mobil Command Centers, which will be staffed by Department of Financial Services personnel and Department of Environmental Conservation experts, who will help residents navigate the insurance and storm recovery permit claims. The centers’ times of operation and locations are listed below: Wednesday, May 24
Jefferson County - NYS Emergency Response Mobile Command Center
10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Town of Lyme
Chaumont Volunteer Fire Department
11385 NY Route 12E Thursday, May 25
St. Lawrence County - NYS Emergency Response Mobile Command Center
City of Ogdensburg
10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
100 Riverside Avenue (The Dobisky Center)