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May 4, 2009

Branford flood victims seeking aid in greater numbers

By Vanessa Fultz, Democrat Reporter

As floodwaters fall the number of affected residents who are applying for federal assistance is rising.

In Branford, the part of the county the hardest hit, an estimated 30 homes were flooded, said Suwannee County Sheriff/Emergency Management Director Tony Cameron.

President Obama declared a major disaster declaration last week, which means local homeowners and renters may be eligible for federal funds to help with housing needs and necessary expenses. Residents who experienced flood damage may apply for possible emergency federal assistance for temporary housing, transportation, medical expenses, and the repair or replacement of homes and personal property due to flooding.

Cameron said 49 residents in Suwannee County applied for assistance as of Sunday.

Cameron said floodwaters are dropping fast and should be back to normal in a week or so.

Officials say the increase of mosquitoes is a concern due to standing waters. County Commissioners have issued a request to the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services to have aerial spraying in the county.

"I live four to five miles from the river and they are bad at my house," said Commissioner Wesley Wainwright, who serves the Branford area. "Outside of general health issues it's just uncomfortable."

Wainwright said as of Monday the county hasn't heard whether that request will be met.

Cameron urges residents who have standing water near their home to use larvicide to prevent mosquitoes. Larvicide is available at the Emergency Operations Center in Live Oak.

Bottled water is also available at the Branford town hall in Branford and the EOC.

A total of 257 Suwannee County homes were affected by flood conditions, according to figures released April 21 by the State Emergency Response Team. Nineteen homes were destroyed, 55 suffered major damage, 30 sustained minor damage and 153 were inaccessible.

Affected individuals can apply for assistance at Hatch Park Community Center in Branford. They may also call 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or go to www.disasterassistance.gov.

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