LAKE COUNTY >> As registration for Federal Emergency Management Agency disaster relief funds came to a close on Monday, the Valley Fire Long Term Recovery Task Force reported larger numbers for project estimates and Lake County’s share of those costs.
At the task force’s meeting last week, county Audtior-Controller Cathy Saderlund said that the estimated amount for county projects has increased by $12.6 million. Due to the tree removal project the Board of Supervisors awarded to AshBritt, Inc. on Friday, the estimates jumped from $11.8 million to $24.4 million.
Of that cost, Saderlund said the county will be responsible for at least $1.7 million, which comprises two parts: projects approved by FEMA and those that do not receive federal approval.
When a recovery or emergency project meets FEMA guidelines, the federal government covers 75 percent of the price. Of the remaining 25 percent, she said, the state is liable for 18,75 percent and the county’s share is 6.25 percent.
According to FEMA External Affairs Specialist Steven Solomon, coverage from public assistance grants is primarily for the repair of infrastructure, debris removal, and the operation of utilities.
Other projects — such as sheltering at Konocti Harbor and additional sheriff’s patrols — are 75 percent funded through state offices in Sacramento. The rest of the bill goes to Lake County, which will be reimbursed after the projects are completed.
Certainly clean up and rebuilding costs will continue to mount, with insurance and federal funding covering much of the expense. A final tally on the damage caused by the Valley Fire is months away.
Although FEMA closed registration for individual assistance, Solomon said the organization will remain behind by assuring people receive assistance, providing housing assistance, and supporting the county and the state.
“We want to assure the residents of Lake County even though the deadline to register has passed, FEMA will continue to be here, doing its utmost to make sure that every eligible survivor receives the assistance they are entitled to,” he said.
