From our news sources Sept. 21, 2019. 9:25 p.m.
Newly elected U.S. Rep. Greg Murphy announced today at the Ocracoke Volunteer Fire Department that the disaster declaration for “public assistance” for damage by Hurricane Dorian was signed today by President Donald Trump.
Murphy (R-Pitt County), who was sworn in Tuesday to represent the Third Congressional District, which includes Ocracoke, today visited Ocracoke, spoke with islanders and toured the north end of the island and the village.
The declaration approval means that FEMA will reimburse North Carolina for the costs of cleaning up and repairing storm damage to public facilities and infrastructure.
Also today, Gov. Roy Cooper sent an additional request to Trump for federal assistance to North Carolina residents in Carteret, Dare, Hyde and New Hanover counties and adds Jones County to the list of requested counties to receive Public Assistance.
“We are working to get people who are recovering from Dorian the help they need,” Cooper said in a press release. “Dorian’s flood waters and its winds damaged many homes, and we are requesting federal assistance to recover.”
If approved, the declaration would provide grants to residents who suffered damages from Dorian and could open the door to additional FEMA recovery programs, like temporary housing.
Read the Governor’s letter here.
State officials have encouraged North Carolina’s congressional leaders, including Senators Richard Burr and Thom Tillis to help expedite approval of federal assistance.
The state is supporting recovery in North Carolina as residents await a federal declaration. In particular, Ocracoke Island faces unique challenges and the state continues to provide critical support services to the island.
