$50,000 Flood Relief Grants for Highland Falls Residents Announced by Gov. Hochul
Governor Kathy Hochul of New York was present in the Hudson Valley, where she proclaimed the allocation of millions in aid for the region’s inhabitants, who have been heavily affected by the destructive floods of the previous week.
Governor Hochul visited Highland Falls in Orange County, a place that was heavily ravaged by the torrential downpour and subsequent severe flooding. While expressing confidence in President Biden’s approval of the state’s disaster declaration request, Governor Hochul highlighted the distinct challenge homeowners are grappling with.
She expressed her confidence in their ongoing communication with the White House, as they aim to illustrate the magnitude of the damages incurred. The damages are estimated to be around $50 million statewide, spread across a significant number of counties. The impact of the storm was colossal in scale and the number of counties affected is astonishing. She stressed the focus on municipalities, for infrastructural repair such as roads, bridges, schools, town halls, and village halls. However, she underscored the overlooked homeowners, questioning who is responsible for aiding them and doubting the financial capability of these individuals to cover unanticipated damages.
Governor Hochul confirmed that homeowners who meet certain criteria can receive up to $50,000 in grants for essential repairs, using funds from a total pool of $3 million. To be eligible, homeowners must have income at or below 80 percent of the area’s median income, and the necessary repairs to make the homes habitable must be targeted at a primary residence.
Steven Neuhaus, Orange County Executive and Republican acknowledged that while the emergency situation might have passed, the process of repairing all the destroyed roads in the area will take several months. However, he expressed that housing represents a separate, more complex issue.
Neuhaus empathized with the average homeowner who did not have flood insurance, explaining that these are the individuals who won’t be receiving relief and that their situation is critical. He highlighted that around 1,000 houses or structures have significant water damage and are still being inhabited. Around 20 of these are in such poor condition that they should be demolished, and some are still occupied because the homeowners have nowhere else to go.
Democratic State Assemblyman Chris Eachus, representing the 99th district, confirmed that the damage is widespread and emphasized that the crisis is far from over. He revealed that out of the 85 wells tested in the town, most were contaminated with E. coli, indicating the dire need for clean water. He also stressed the continued requirement for food supply for those without electricity and gas.
Neuhaus further added that the recovery phase on a human scale is progressing onto its next stage. He described the plans to transition from the current Red Cross-run shelter, where they plan to stop providing overnight stays but continue to offer food and water. He also indicated an intention to support the local businesses by transitioning away from the shelter provisions.
Governor Hochul assured that the state stands in solidarity with those affected by the floods, pledging support throughout what she acknowledged would be a long and methodical recovery process. She emphasized that in a close-knit community like Highland Falls, moments of crisis present opportunities to demonstrate the character and resilience of its people.
Residents can apply for the assistance program, managed by the Orange County-based Rural Development Advisory Corporation, either online at rupco.org or by calling the number 845-713-4568 ext. 114.
