Bernards Chamber to Host Meeting on FEMA Aid

With filing deadlines approaching at the end of October, the Bernards Township Regional Chamber of Commerce has arranged an informational meeting with a FEMA official to discuss federal assistance programs available to residents and businesses affected by Hurricane Irene.

The meeting, set for 6-8 p.m. on Oct. 19 at the on Madisonville Road, in Basking Ridge, is open to businesses and residents from other communities that experienced flooding or other storm damage in late August, said Al LiCata, executive director of the chamber.

LiCata said he expects the meeting, free of charge, will be attended by multiple business people and residents from nearby 

However, other communities also felt the impact of water damage and prolonged power outages, LiCata said this week. "I was one of those without power for a week as well as my parents. I am aware Bernardsville and Long Hill also had similar experiences." After several days without power,  to residents who could not draw from their private wells without electricity.

"Water damage, mold concerns, appliances, furnaces and other problems we felt firsthand will be addressed along with how you can seek assistance," LiCata said of the meeting to be hosted by the regional chamber, which has many members in Long Hill.

Many businesses and residence have by now realized that their insurance doesn't covered much of the damage caused by Hurricane Irene, LiCata said in a news release from the chamber.

LiCata said he was able to reach out to the Federal Emergency Management Agency and arrange for the Oct. 19 meeting to be attended Susan Langhoff, a FEMA official with the title of Sector Specialist.

"Susan will provide valuable information and deadlines for filing claims, which are fast approaching and many just do not know they are eligible for," LiCata said.

He said the regional chamber is always seeking to provide information and services to local businesses and the community, and Irene has presented multiple problems to address."

"Here's an opportunity to know what FEMA can provide to you," LiCata said.

Filing deadlines are approaching at the end of October, said Robert Love, the chamber's president. "Whether you're a business owner or homeowner, FEMA is coming to provide detailed information on what they can assist and provide you with. I highly recommend you come listen and learn because you may find, this is something that can benefit you," Love said.

According to the BTCC release, Langhoff will provide a brief presentation on FEMA programs and what's available for the greater Somerset Hills area.

LiCata later added that anyone from Bound Brook, Manville, Somerville or other communities that experienced heavy flooding due to Irene are welcome to attend as well.

Langhoff's presentation will be followed with how to access the programs whether by phone or online, and what information one would need to gather prior to calling in to the agency.

A question and answer period will follow, and the evening will conclude with coffee and tea sponsored by the Basking Ridge Country Club, the release said.

The program starts promptly at 6 p.m., the chamber release said.

Related Topics: Bernards Township Regional Chamber of Commerce, FEMA, Hurricane Aid, and Hurricane Irene