GOSHEN – FEMA is being criticized for denying Individual Assistance for flood victims in Orange County impacted by July’s history storm that washed out roads and bridges and caused major damage to people’s homes in West Point, Highland Falls, Cornwall area.
Congressman Pat Ryan (D, NY-18) didn’t mince words about FEMA’s decision calling it “total bullshit.”
He demanded that FEMA Administrator Criswell come to the Hudson Valley and personally explain to impacted families why she was denying them relief.” He called the decision by “bureaucrats sitting in some office down in DC (a) fundamental failure by FEMA to accomplish their mission.”
County Executive Steven Neuhaus said he is disappointed by FEMA’s decision. “I have seen first-hand the damage in Highland Falls and West Point and the surrounding areas caused by July’s storm,” he said. “Our private property and homeowners where significantly impacted and continue to feel the impacts of this storm.”
He said FEMA should “step up to the plate and needs to assist these individuals who have endured tremendous hardships.”
State Senator James Skoufis (D, Cornwall) said now that the flood waters receded, the impacted residents are left with nothing. “Shame on FEMA,” he said.
