SCVOA STRONGLY SUPPORTS 

FEDERAL APPROVAL OF NEW YORK STATE DISASTER RECOVERY AID

On April 26, Governor Cuomo and U.S. Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Shaun Donovan announced federal approval of New York State's recovery action plan to help homeowners, businesses, and local governments affected by Superstorm Sandy, as well as Hurricane Irene, and Tropical Storm Lee. This disaster relief program is being funded through HUD and provides $1.73 billion in aid for housing and economic development in New York State. Long Island and the lower Hudson Valley are being targeted for this funding.

"SCVOA applauds the efforts of Governor Cuomo and Secretary Donovan to expedite access to badly needed funding for Long Island residents and businesspeople who are recovering from Superstorm Sandy," said SCVOA President Ralph A. Scordino, Mayor of Babylon Village.  "The approval of this plan is a significant step forward in the rebuilding and revitalization of the communities and businesses that are still struggling as a result of Sandy." 

These funds provide assistance that is not covered by existing federal funding programs, private insurance, or other sources.  While focused on restoring housing and small businesses, this plan allows for considerable flexibility in determining the best use of the funds to meet immediate needs.  

Babylon Town Supervisor Richard Schaffer represented Suffolk County at the news conference in Albany, and he said that he will be opening an office in Town Hall Annex to assist residents with the aid process.

 To read the plan in full, go to:

http://www.nyshcr.org/Press/ActionPlan/