Peekskill, NY - The City of Peekskill will be receiving $88,254 in reimbursements for expenses associated with Hurricane Irene last summer, according to New York State Office of Emergency Management officials.

Under the Federal Emergency Management Association’s disaster declaration, the City of Peekskill became eligible to recoup expenses connected with its pre-storm preparations, its efforts to mitigate damage during the storm, and post-storm cleanup.

“Peekskill’s taxpayers will benefit from the City’s diligence in securing federal and state disaster relief monies. The reimbursement process was long and detailed, but our efforts have resulted in more than $88,000 to cover the extraordinary expenses incurred by the city during Hurricane Irene to protect our residents and their properties,” said Peekskill Mayor Mary F. Foster.

The disaster funds will be used to reimburse the city for costs associated with police, fire, water department and public works overtime and benefits expenses and tipping fees for washed up debris, mulching fees, equipment rental such as water pumps, a generator, and a light tower and equipment purchases like chainsaws.  The light tower and generator were used to open a shelter at the high school.

FEMA is responsible for 75% of the reimbursement. In addition, traditionally, New York State is responsible for picking up 12.5% and municipalities for 12.5% of the eligible cost reimbursements. However, Governor Andrew Cuomo signed an executive order relieving municipalities of their 12.5% share.  The State is picking up the remaining balance. The City expects to receive the funds in a few months.

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