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Dreier Urges Expedited Approval of Disaster Declaration by SBA
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman David Dreier (R-San Dimas, CA) has expressed strong support for California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger’s request that the Small Business Administration (SBA) declare Los Angeles County a federal disaster area and provide the appropriate resources to help devastated homeowners rebuild in the aftermath of the mudslides and debris damage caused by recent storms. A declaration by the SBA would help affected homeowners begin the rebuilding process by making them eligible for SBA disaster assistance loans.
In his letter to SBA Administrator Karen G. Mills, Dreier describes the devastation, which he witnessed firsthand. “As you know, since January 17, Southern California has been hit by a series of storms bringing high winds, significant rains and heavy snowfall resulting in floods, mudslides and debris flows. The full impact of the storms continue to be felt by families residing in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains, many of whom were forced to evacuate only to return to mud covered streets and homes damaged beyond repair. A survey conducted by the California Emergency Management Agency and the SBA determined that the amount of damage was sufficient to meet the threshold for a physical disaster declaration, allowing for disaster loans to be made available to those adversely affected by these storms and the subsequent mudslides.”
Dreier urged an expeditious approval of the Governor’s request so that the rebuilding process can begin as soon as possible. “The SBA's important role in the rebuilding process is essential in assisting these families and the impacted communities. I greatly appreciate your consideration of Governor Schwarzenegger's request for a disaster declaration in Los Angeles County and am committed to working with the SBA and all other federal agencies involved to mitigate the damage caused by these storms.”
To view Dreier's full letter to SBA Administrator Mills, please click here.