Community Corner
Lawmakers Ask For Federal Help On Marshall Fire Debris Removal Costs
Colorado's congressional delegation member want federal government to pay for debris removal in neighborhoods affected by Marshall Fire.
February 2, 2022
Members of Colorado’s congressional delegation want the federal government to pay for debris removal in the neighborhoods affected by the Marshall Fire, arguing that the financial assistance will make recovery easier.
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“Because of the staggering scale of the destruction from the Marshall Fire and the vast amount of resources required for the community to recover, we believe that these requests are entirely warranted,” Sens. Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper and Rep. Joe Neguse wrote in a joint letter to President Joe Biden and FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell on Wednesday.
The Marshall Fire destroyed over 1,000 homes as it burned through Boulder County on Dec. 30, making it the most destructive fire in state history. One of the most pressing matters right now is cleaning up the remains of the burned structures so homeowners can begin the rebuilding process.
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Boulder County is sifting through bids for the multi-million-dollar cleanup job, and the lawmakers want to make sure the insurance companies paying for it will get as much reimbursed as possible.
The state is requesting a 100% cost share from FEMA for debris removal on private property, up from 75%. The state is also asking for help with removing fire-damaged concrete foundations.
The lawmakers say the financial backing is critical for economic recovery.
“As Colorado transitions to long-term recovery, debris removal is the most urgent priority for rebuilding. The State, Boulder County, the City of Louisville, and the Town of Superior are collaborating on a debris-removal effort in order to minimize individual costs to survivors and provide for expeditious debris removal that conforms to public health and safety standards,” they wrote.
Homeowners who want to participate in the county’s debris removal program have until Feb. 8 to complete a right of entry form.
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