The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has delivered a blow to Arizona with their recent denial of a Major Disaster Declaration for Gila and Mohave Counties. According to a statement from Governor Hobbs' office, the September 25-27 floods, which caused over $30 million in damages, will not receive the federal aid deemed critical for recovery. The denial comes in the face of substantial infrastructural damage across local and Tribal communities, a detail that seems to have done little to sway FEMA's assessment of the situation.
Despite preliminary assessments documenting the extent of the havoc, FEMA has determined that the impact of the flooding does not exceed the state and local capacity to deal with the crisis. The decision has come under fire from Governor Hobbs, who called the move to deny aid "reckless," vowing to appeal the decision and condemning the timing during the holiday season. "The people of Gila and Mohave County were devastated by flooding from severe monsoon storms this September," Governor Hobbs expressed, pointing to the additional burden imposed on communities already striving to support one another.
Local officials have also spoken out against FEMA's decision. "Devastation from our recent and profound flooding in southern Gila County has left many in financial ruin, homes destroyed, infrastructure destroyed or badly damaged, as well as loss of life," said Gila County Board of Supervisors Chairman Steve Christensen, as documented in the Governor's office release. Christensen highlights the county's dire need for FEMA's assistance to recover, a sentiment echoed by officials in the impacted areas.
Among those also voicing their dissatisfaction is Globe Mayor Al Gameros, who referred to the flooding as historically unprecedented. "These floods caused historic and unprecedented damage and has forever transformed our small, tight-knit rural communities," Mayor Gameros affirmed. In the same vein, Miami Mayor Gil Madrid insists on the importance of federal support, stating, "This is a frustrating setback that will have a real impact on our families and businesses." Mohave County's Manager and County Engineer, Sam Elters, also chimed in, supporting Governor Hobbs' quest for FEMA approval.
The State of Arizona plans to submit an appeal within the 30-day appeal window allowed under federal regulations, emphasizing the severity of damage and the strain on local and state resources. With the backing of state and local leaders, as well as Arizona's congressional delegation, the fight for federal assistance continues amidst a backdrop of disappointment and determination from those confronting the aftermath of the floods.
