Earthquake FAQ's
Will Federal Assistance be Available?
On September 2, 2014 Governor Brown requested that the President declare Napa County a disaster area, freeing up federal financial assistance. However, the President has not yet made that declaration. On August 29, 2014 Congressman Thompson prepared a letter to the President asking for the major disaster declaration which was also signed by U.S. Senators Barbara Boxer and Diane Feinstein and U.S. House of Representatives members Nancy Pelosi, Jared Huffman and John Garamendi. A copy of the letter and the press release are available here.
The Federal Emergency Management Association (FEMA) goes through a lengthy process to determine if the amount and type of damage qualifies for federal aid. FEMA officials toured the damage last weekend and have returned today for additional review. We will keep you posted about the official declaration and how it might help businesses and families recover from the disaster.
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How do I get a permit to repair quake damage?
Contractors and residents needing building permits should visit City Hall at 4381 Broadway, 2nd floor, Monday-Friday 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM.
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Will I have to pay building permit fees?
The City of American Canyon will be waiving building permit fees for repairing residential earthquake damage. Staff will be working to expedite permits for earthquake related repairs.
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What do I do with my earthquake debris?
For general earthquake debris (non-hazardous waste) debris boxes have been set up in two locations: the west end of Joan Drive @ Donaldson Way and in the parking lot located on Knightsbridge behind 2185 Elliott Drive (Senior Center). The boxes will be removed in the morning of Monday, September 8th.
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What kinds of assistance are available to me and my family?
Season of Sharing Program: Season of Sharing is a non-profit organization that raises money to help Bay Area families in need. The American Canyon Family Resource Center (FRC) is helping coordinate and administer this program with Napa County Health and Human Services Agency for earthquake related hardships. The attached flyer explains who can apply, what kind of housing assistance and critical family needs can be funded and the amount of funds available. Contact the FRC at (707) 980-7024.
CDBG Low Interest Loans for Home Repairs: If you are a lower income resident and damage to your home is not urgent, a low interest deferred loan from the City's Community Development Block Grant program may be an option for you. To learn whether you qualify, the types of improvements that can be funded through this program, and to receive an application, please contact the Joseph Wiencek at City of Napa Housing Authority at (707) 257-9543, ext. 7356.
Red Cross Assistance Center: Caseworkers will be on hand to offer one-on-one sessions with residents and provide information on how to recover from the damage beginning Monday, September 8th at 1 PM at 301 First Street in Napa (corner of First & Silverado Trail).
Aldea offering free crisis counseling to those impacted by the earthquake: Earthquakes are strong reminders of how vulnerable we are to the powerful unexpected forces of nature. Sudden traumatic events can shatter a person's world, destroy what was once familiar and upset the normal sense of safety and stability. If you or anyone you know is in need of some extra emotional support please know that there are resources available to you. Crisis counseling is available in English or Spanish, regardless of income level. Appointments are required, please call to reserve an appointment: Aldea Children's and Family Services 707-253-0123, ext. 625
American Canyon Family Resource Center: The American Canyon Family Resource Center is open for families in need from 9 AM to 4 PM. They have food boxes, gift cards, and can provide additional support any time of the year! Please feel free to contact them if you are in need of assistance at 3423 Broadway, Suite D-1, (707) 980-7024, After-hours emergency contact (707) 363-5085.
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I'd like to help others - where can I find information?
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