What if people don't show up?

FINN ROCK: Public input on a possible community disaster recovery grant was limited last Thursday when only one person showed up at the old McKenzie High School gymnasium. Up for discussion was an initiative managed by Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) aimed at aiding recovery in disaster-impacted communities.

Up for discussion were aspects of possible U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) funding to help after major disasters, such as wildfires, flooding, or other emergencies. The CDBG-DR funds are flexible, allowing OHCS to tailor the support based on the unique needs of each community affected.

Details of the program include support for rebuilding or repairing homes, particularly for low—and moderate-income householders who may not have sufficient resources. Other funds could be allocated to assist businesses that suffered damage or losses in restoring economic activity in affected areas.

For communities, funds might be directed toward reconstructing or improving damaged infrastructure, such as roads, water systems, and utilities.

Looking to the future, measures to reduce the impact of future disasters, such as firebreaks or flood control systems, would also qualify.

Oregon's program has been especially vital after recent wildfires, such as those in 2020. Funds were directed to help rebuild homes, aid small businesses, and strengthen community resilience against future fires.

Grants have varied in the past, depending on the scale of the disaster and the specific needs of affected communities. For instance, following the 2020 wildfires, Oregon received an allocation of $422,286,000 to support recovery efforts.

Earlier disasters (flooding, smaller-scale fires, etc.): Past allocations have been significantly lower, often ranging from $10 million to $100 million, depending on the scope of damage and unmet needs.

Considering recent major disasters (like the 2020 wildfires) alongside more minor incidents, a rough average might range from $50 million to $150 million per allocation. However, larger, more devastating events skew this average upward, and smaller, localized incidents receive less funding.

People who missed the meeting can still submit their ideas if they comment to OHCS no later than 11:59 p.m. on November 8th.

Public comment

There are multiple ways the community can provide comments on the draft SAPA. We encourage folks to find what will work best for them.

All comments must be submitted Nov. 8, 2024.

Comments can be submitted online, or by email, phone, or mail to: [email protected]

Phone: 877-510-6800

Mail: OHCS, 725 Summer St NE, Suite B, Salem, OR 97301-1266

To access a copy of the draft plan go to: tinyurl.com/2s4b7vmv