FEMA Public Assistance Support for Virginia Department of Emergency Management
IEM is supporting the Commonwealth of Virginia with Emergency Standby Services for its Public Assistance (PA) activities. Assisting the State and local governments with expediting the disaster recovery process through seamless coordination and integration, IEM has provided ongoing onsite support for two disaster declarations (FEMA-1655-DR and FEMA-1661-DR). IEM evaluates damages, submits related project worksheets for funding, and develops scopes of work to repair damages, as well as monitors and documents recovery work to justify the Federal funding allocated.
Advocate for both applicants and State.
IEM has been working closely with FEMA staff to ensure that all inspected damages are documented correctly for the validation of eligible damages during the recovery program.
We also serve as an advocate for the applicant, working collaboratively with the State to resolve any eligibility, funding, or other recovery program issues. To date, IEM has found approximately $9 million in additional damages for communities in the vicinity of Alexandria, VA, and helped the State recoup grantee management funds that had not been reimbursed from five previous disasters.
Providing HMGP support.
IEM also provides assistance with the Hazard Mitigation Grants Program (HMGP), relevant to disaster recovery. Site visits are conducted as an opportunity to discuss and provide guidance on possible development of mitigation projects under the HMGP to complement and leverage PA expenditures for even greater and more comprehensive mitigation solutions.
IEM staff also helps to integrate identified mitigation priorities and projects into long-term community recovery planning efforts.
IEM is an equal partner with James Lee Witt Associates in this effort.
