Eleven Indiana counties affected by severe storms in August are now eligible for state and federal assistance, which will cover the majority of their debris removal costs. This support comes as part of a federal major disaster declaration, significantly reducing the financial burden on local governments.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will reimburse 75% of the eligible expenses for debris removal in the designated counties. These counties include Delaware, Fayette, Franklin, Hamilton, Henry, LaPorte, Lake, Madison, Porter, Tipton, and Wayne.
Adding to the federal support, Governor Mike Braun’s office announced Thursday that the state will cover an additional 75% of the remaining financial share after FEMA's contribution. This commitment by the state amounts to 18.75% of the total eligible costs for these specific projects, known as FEMA Category A. As a result of both federal and state contributions, local governments in the affected areas will be responsible for only 6.25% of the costs for eligible debris removal projects.
Governor Braun underscored the commitment to assisting local communities in a news release issued Thursday. He stated that "Hoosier communities... will not shoulder the recovery effort alone." He further emphasized that debris removal represents the next phase in the recovery process, and the state stands with Hoosiers through every step.
The state’s share of the funding will originate from an Indiana Department of Homeland Security contingency fund. There is currently no estimated total for how much money will be disbursed from this fund.
In a related development on Thursday, State Treasurer Daniel Elliott pledged to make up to $50 million available to local governments, schools, libraries, and municipal utilities. This funding is intended for public infrastructure repair and can be accessed regardless of whether a disaster declaration has been issued. This announcement by the Treasurer coincided with the news of debris removal reimbursement.
FEMA’s reimbursement guidelines for Category A projects specify particular criteria for eligibility. To qualify, projects must serve the public interest, eliminate an immediate threat to life, public health, and safety, and must be a direct result of a declared disaster.
The Braun administration has also taken steps to secure contractors to aid with debris removal and management efforts. The first state-led debris removal operations have already commenced in Fayette County.
Local governments in the eligible counties are being urged by the Braun administration to collaborate with their respective county emergency managers. This collaboration is crucial for reporting debris present in waterways, public rights-of-way, and on private properties. For property owners seeking assistance with debris removal, contact can be made through Indiana 211. Local government entities interested in pursuing reimbursement for eligible projects should direct their inquiries via email to [email protected].
