Governor Cuomo Signs Legislation to Provide $45 Million for Communities Impacted by Lake Ontario and St. Lawrence River Flooding

ALBANY, N.Y., July 6 -- Gov. Andrew Cuomo, D-N.Y., issued the following news release:

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today signed legislation to provide a total of $45 million in relief to communities impacted by the historic Lake Ontario and St. Lawrence River flooding. The legislation expands eligibility and funding for programs previously announced by Governor Cuomo and will provide vital assistance to homeowners, small businesses, farms, not-for-profit organizations, homeowner associations, owners of multiple dwellings, and local governments that have suffered direct physical damage as a result of the flooding. The legislation also provides up to $10 million to reimburse Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, and Allegany counties for damages sustained as a result of the severe storms and flooding in July 2015, and for Monroe County for damages resulting from the severe storm of March 2017.

In addition, the Governor will be requesting an expedited major disaster declaration from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to unlock federal assistance for local homeowners, businesses, and governments.

Watch video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8NDDQijrjUg

Amid ongoing questions about the transparency and management of the International Joint Commission (IJC), Governor Cuomo has called upon President Trump to immediately appoint new leadership to the IJC, which is responsible for regulating water levels on Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River. The Governor is requesting that President Trump to replace the two sitting Commissioners and to fill a vacant Commissioner seat. All three U.S. Commissioners are appointed by the President and must be confirmed by the U.S. Senate.

"By expanding eligibility and funding for these vital programs, we will help more New Yorkers get back on their feet," Governor Cuomo said. "This new legislation underscores our commitment to stand by the Lake Ontario and St. Lawrence River communities every step of the way as they rebuild and become even stronger than before."

$15 Million for Homeowners

The legislation increases the original program size from $7 million to $15 million and the maximum award from $40,000 to $50,000 and expands eligibility to include all primary homeowners, as well as non-primary homeowners with income up to $275,000. Homeowners that sustained direct physical flood-related damage will be eligible to receive up to $50,000 under this program. Program assistance will reimburse homeowners for eligible losses, including repairs to and restoration of structures, equipment, and other physical damage.

The program is being administered through not-for profit housing organizations seeking to help homeowners affected by the flooding. Homeowners seeking assistance are encouraged to contact the not-for-profit organizations serving their county to determine eligibility, ask questions, and apply for program assistance here or express interest at the HCR offices listed below or contact [email protected] or 518-474-2057. The HCR offices are open Monday through Friday, 9-5.

Homes and Community Renewal Syracuse Office

620 West Erie Blvd.

Suite 312

Syracuse, NY 13204

Homes and Community Renewal Buffalo Office

Electric Tower

Suite 105

535 Washington Street

Buffalo, NY 14203

$15 Million for Small Businesses, Farms, Homeowner Associations and Not-for-Profit Organizations

The legislation increases the program size from $5 million to $15 million and the maximum award from $20,000 to $50,000 and expands eligibility to include farms, homeowner associations, owners of multiple dwellings, and not-for-profit organizations, in addition to small businesses. Small businesses, farms, homeowners associations, and not-for-profit organizations that sustained direct physical flood-related damage will be eligible to receive up to $50,000 under this program, while owners of multiple dwellings will be eligible to receive up to $20,000. Program assistance will calculated at 50 percent of eligible loss, compensating eligible entities for repairs to and restoration of structures, equipment, and other physical damage and declines in revenue in excess of 15 percent as a result of closures or reduced business.

The program is being administered by Empire State Development. Applications and program guidelines are available here. Eligible entities interested in participating in the program are also encouraged to ask questions and express interest at the ESD offices listed below or contact [email protected] or 518-292-5348. The ESD offices are open Monday through Friday, 9-5.

Watch video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FnMMqpItECA

Empire State Development Watertown Office

Dulles State Office Building

Watertown, NY 13601

Empire State Development Central NY Office

620 Erie Boulevard West

Suite 112

Syracuse, New York 13204

Empire State Development Finger Lakes Office

400 Andrews St, Suite 300

Rochester, NY 14604

Empire State Development Western NY Office

95 Perry Street, Suite 500

Buffalo, NY 14203

Empire State Development Niagara Falls Office

222 First Street, 7th Floor

Niagara Falls, NY 14303

$15 Million for Counties, Cities, Towns, Villages and Special Districts

The legislation increases the program size from $5 million to $15 million and expands eligibility to include flood mitigation and construction of resiliency measures in addition to infrastructure repair and restoration. Counties, cities, towns, villages and special districts that sustained direct physical flood-related damage are eligible to receive up to $1,000,000 for repairs to and restoration of municipal infrastructure and systems and up to $500,000 for flood mitigation, construction of resiliency measures, or flood control projects.

The program is being administered by New York State Homes and Community Renewal. Applications and program guidelines are available at http://www.nyshcr.org/.

Eligible entities interested in participating in the program are also encouraged to ask questions and express interest at the HCR offices listed below or contact [email protected] or 518-474-2057. The HCR offices are open Monday through Friday, 9-5.

Homes and Community Renewal Syracuse Office

620 West Erie Blvd.

Suite 312

Syracuse, NY 13204

Homes and Community Renewal Buffalo Office

Electric Tower

Suite 105

535 Washington Street

Buffalo, NY 14203

Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul said, "I have seen firsthand during multiple visits to the communities along Lake Ontario the damage that has happened to roads, floodwalls and the public water infrastructure in these waterfront communities. Governor Cuomo's signing of this bill signals New York's commitment to continuing its support with funding and other assistance to help these communities get back on their feet."

Empire State Development President, CEO & Commissioner Howard Zemsky said, "With battered buildings and flooded neighborhoods up and down the Lake Ontario shoreline, it's clear that immediate relief is needed. Today, Governor Cuomo is signing legislation that provides $45 million in assistance for communities impacted by the recent flooding to aid New Yorkers through the challenging recovery process."

New York State Homes and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas said, "Thanks to the swift action of Governor Cuomo and the State Legislature, HCR and our nonprofit partners will help residents who qualify for financial assistance to receive it as quickly and efficiently as possible. We are committed to helping residents whose homes, farms and businesses were damaged or destroyed in the recent flooding. Together, we'll help these lakeside communities come back more resilient and safer than they were before."

Senator Rob Ortt said, "I'm proud both houses of the legislature were able to work together to provide much-needed relief to families, and I applaud Governor Cuomo for enacting this bill into law. The visible damage to Sunset Grill and its marina is a microcosm of what's been happening along the entire Lake Ontario shoreline. This state aid underscores the importance of working together on both sides of the aisle to deliver resources to communities, businesses, and families in dire need of relief. Those who have suffered property damage and have been burdened by the devastation will finally receive the help they need to rebuild and move forward."

Senator Pam Helming said, "Today's signing of the Lake Ontario Flood Relief Aid into law is a critical step forward in the rebuilding of our lake shore communities. I would like to thank Governor Cuomo and Assemblyman Morelle as well as my colleagues in the Senate for their partnership and support for this legislation. This crucial aid will provide essential financial assistance for qualified homeowners and their families, business owners, and municipalities who have suffered tremendously these past couple of months. I along with my colleagues were proud to lead the effort on behalf of our local communities to ensure they get the support they deserve from New York State and provide relief to our lakeshore residents."

Assembly Majority Leader Joseph D. Morelle said, "New Yorkers have a long history of coming together to support each other in times of need. I am proud to continue that legacy by delivering critical support for our neighbors along the lake as they begin to recover and rebuild after this season's devastating flooding. I am also pleased that this legislation includes funding to aid Monroe County towns impacted by the severe windstorm earlier this Spring. I thank Governor Cuomo, Senator Helming and all of our partners in government for their collaboration and swift response to the urgent needs of our community."

Assemblyman Angelo J. Morinello said, "The damage caused by the flooding of The Niagara River and Lake Ontario has been devastating for our residents. Thanks to Governor Cuomo, we will not only be able to restore the beauty and serenity of the shoreline, but also restore peace of mind for those who live and work along the shore. By directing critical funding to impacted homeowners and businesses, as well as to local governments, the Governor is helping New Yorkers restore their properties and ensuring the resiliency of our communities."

Assemblyman Michael J. Norris said, "Governor Cuomo recognizes the challenges facing residents and businesses along Lake Ontario and is listening to our needs. Since the flooding began earlier this year, the Governor has stepped up for our residents and businesses, including by declaring a state of emergency. The new funding announced today for our businesses and homeowners is another crucial step toward restoring the prosperity of our communities. I am grateful for Governor Cuomo and the State Legislature for getting this done for New Yorkers."

Greece Supervisor Bill Reilich said, "Thanks to Governor Cuomo, New York State is taking action to protect residents and businesses in Monroe County. The Governor is committing $45 million to local communities for repairs to homes, farms, small businesses and not-for-profit organizations that will go a long way toward helping them repair and strengthen their properties in the wake of this year's flooding. From directing financial assistance to providing resources like dams and sandbags, the Governor has had our back through this challenging summer of flooding."

Irondequoit Supervisor Dave Seeley said, "Today, New York State is once again stepping up for residents along Lake Ontario. Under the leadership of Governor Cuomo and our local delegation, the State has provided essential support to help us respond to the dire flooding that has devastated homes and businesses along the shore. Today's announcement expands those efforts and provides assistance to all those impacted by this year's extreme weather, including local governments like Irondequoit. Thanks to the commitment of Governor Cuomo and the State Legislature, our communities are receiving the help and support they deserve."

Sodus Point Mayor Christian Tertinek said, "Under the leadership of Governor Cuomo, we have transformed the relationship between Albany and Upstate, and we are now working together to create opportunity and overcome challenges facing our communities, including the crisis on the shores of Lake Ontario. Today's announcement is yet another example of the Governor's commitment to supporting homeowners affected by flooding, and it will provide much needed relief for our residents, homeowners and farmers. I applaud the Governor and the State Legislature for this critical legislation, and I look forward to continuing to work together to deliver for our communities."

Additional Emergency Funding

The funding announced today is in addition to approximately $1 million in expedited funding--up to $500,000 for the Town of Greece and up to $500,000 for the Village of Sodus Point--to conduct emergency repairs and upgrades to flood-impacted wastewater treatment systems. The Governor has also signed legislation amending the Clean Water Infrastructure Act of 2017 to provide emergency financial assistance for municipalities to be available immediately. The amended legislation removes a 120 day waiting period, allowing municipalities across the state to access emergency loans.

No Wake Enforcement

On Sunday, the Governor also announced ramped up efforts to enforce no wake zones along the Lake Ontario and St. Lawrence River shoreline. Multiple state agencies deployed additional resources to assist with local enforcement efforts, including a total of 20 watercraft and 42 law enforcement officers from the Department of Environmental Conservation, Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, Division of Military and Naval Affairs, and State Police. As part of ongoing enforcement efforts, local municipalities may issue tickets carrying fines of up to $250 per infraction to recreational boaters violating the 5 mph speed limit within 600 feet of shore, which was announced by the Governor in May. The state has also launched a multimedia outreach campaign to ensure boaters are aware of and abiding by the speed limit. To date, state law enforcement personnel have made nearly 300 stops.

Emergency Response Mobile Command Centers

To continue the state's efforts in helping communities recover from flooding, the NYS Emergency Response Mobile Command Centers continue to offer weekend hours throughout the summer. In addition, those who are not able to visit the Emergency Response Mobile Command Center can call the Lake Ontario Flood Assistance Hotline at 1-866-244-3839, seven days a week, from 8 a.m. through 8 p.m. for help with insurance-related issues, assistance with flood mitigation measures such as sandbags, and for technical guidance regarding on-site repairs to their property. To date, the state has assisted more than 2,000 individuals at the Mobile Command Centers, fielded more than 1,900 calls through the hotline, and DEC has issued more than 950 permits and emergency authorizations

Thursday, July 6

Niagara - Town of Wilson

Sunset Bar & Grill

3 O'Connell Island

Oswego - Town of Mexico

NYS DOT Maintence Center

5846 Scenic Ave

Village of Whitesboro, Oneida County

Whitesboro Fire Department

171 Oriskany Blvd.

Friday, July 7

Jefferson - Town of Lyme

Chaumont Volunteer Fire Department

11385 NY Route 12E

Village of Whitesboro, Oneida County

Whitesboro Fire Department

171 Oriskany Blvd.

Saturday, July 8

St. Lawrence - City of Ogdensburg

The Dobisky Center

100 Riverside Avenue

Village of Whitesboro, Oneida County

Whitesboro Fire Department

171 Oriskany Blvd.

Sunday, July 9

Niagara - Town of Newfane

Olcott Fire Company

1691 Lockport-Olcott Road

Cayuga - Village of Fair Haven

Fair Haven Village Hall

14523 Cayuga St

Monday, July 10

Orleans - Town of Kent

County Marine Park

Point Breeze Rd (Rt 98)

Oswego - Town of Mexico

NYS DOT Maintence Center

5846 Scenic Ave

Tuesday, July 11

Monroe - Town of Parma

Parma Town Hall

1300 Hilton Parma Rd

Jefferson - Town of Lyme

Chaumont Volunteer Fire Department

11385 NY Route 12E

Wednesday, July 12

Wayne - Village of Sodus Point

Sodus Point Beach Park

7958 Wickham Blvd

St. Lawrence - City of Ogdensburg

The Dobisky Center

100 Riverside Avenue

Thursday, July 13

Niagara - Town of Newfane

Olcott Fire Company

1691 Lockport-Olcott Road

Cayuga - Village of Fair Haven

Fair Haven Village Hall

14523 Cayuga St

Friday, July 14

Orleans - Town of Kent

County Marine Park

Point Breeze Rd (Rt 98)

Oswego - Town of Mexico

NYS DOT Maintence Center

5846 Scenic Ave

Saturday, July 15

Monroe - Town of Parma

Parma Town Hall

1300 Hilton Parma Rd

Jefferson - Town of Lyme

Chaumont Volunteer Fire Department

11385 NY Route 12E

Sunday, July 16

Wayne - Village of Sodus Point

Sodus Point Beach Park

7958 Wickham Blvd

St. Lawrence - City of Ogdensburg

The Dobisky Center

100 Riverside Avenue

Monday, July 17

Niagara - Town of Newfane

Olcott Fire Company

1691 Lockport-Olcott Road

Cayuga - Village of Fair Haven

Fair Haven Village Hall

14523 Cayuga St

Tuesday, July 18

Orleans - Town of Kent

County Marine Park

Point Breeze Rd (Rt 98)

Oswego - Town of Mexico

NYS DOT Maintence Center

5846 Scenic Ave

Wednesday, July 19

Monroe - Town of Parma

Parma Town Hall

1300 Hilton Parma Rd

Jefferson - Town of Lyme

Chaumont Volunteer Fire Department

11385 NY Route 12E

Thursday, July 20

Wayne - Village of Sodus Point

Sodus Point Beach Park

7958 Wickham Blvd

St. Lawrence - City of Ogdensburg

The Dobisky Center

100 Riverside Avenue

Friday, July 21

Niagara - Town of Newfane

Olcott Fire Company

1691 Lockport-Olcott Road

Cayuga - Village of Fair Haven

Fair Haven Village Hall

14523 Cayuga St

Saturday, July 22

Orleans - Town of Kent

County Marine Park

Point Breeze Rd (Rt 98)

Oswego - Town of Mexico

NYS DOT Maintence Center

5846 Scenic Ave

Sunday, July 23

Monroe - Town of Parma

Parma Town Hall

1300 Hilton Parma Rd

Jefferson - Town of Lyme

Chaumont Volunteer Fire Department

11385 NY Route 12E

Monday, July 24

Wayne - Village of Sodus Point

Sodus Point Beach Park

7958 Wickham Blvd

St. Lawrence - City of Ogdensburg

The Dobisky Center

100 Riverside Avenue

Tuesday, July 25

Niagara - Town of Newfane

Olcott Fire Company

1691 Lockport-Olcott Road

Cayuga - Village of Fair Haven

Fair Haven Village Hall

14523 Cayuga St

Wednesday, July 26

Orleans - Town of Kent

County Marine Park

Point Breeze Rd (Rt 98)

Oswego - Town of Mexico

NYS DOT Maintence Center

5846 Scenic Ave

Thursday, July 27

Monroe - Town of Parma

Parma Town Hall

1300 Hilton Parma Rd

Jefferson - Town of Lyme

Chaumont Volunteer Fire Department

11385 NY Route 12E

Friday, July 28

Wayne - Village of Sodus Point

Sodus Point Beach Park

7958 Wickham Blvd

St. Lawrence - City of Ogdensburg

The Dobisky Center

100 Riverside Avenue

Saturday, July 29

Niagara - Town of Newfane

Olcott Fire Company

1691 Lockport-Olcott Road

Cayuga - Village of Fair Haven

Fair Haven Village Hall

14523 Cayuga St

Sunday, July 30

Orleans - Town of Kent

County Marine Park

Point Breeze Rd (Rt 98)

Oswego - Town of Mexico

NYS DOT Maintence Center

5846 Scenic Ave

Monday, July 31

Monroe - Town of Parma

Parma Town Hall

1300 Hilton Parma Rd

Jefferson - Town of Lyme

Chaumont Volunteer Fire Department

11385 NY Route 12E

Resource Deployment

The Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services' Office of Emergency Management is working with county and local partners to monitor water levels of Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River. Additional resources from other state stockpiles have been shifted to locations in Monroe County to prepare for worsening conditions. To date, approximately 2,100 feet of temporary dams in seven locations, and almost 1.6 million sandbags and 11 sandbaggers--at least one for each County, along with 166 pumps of various sizes with associated hoses, have been deployed to affected communities to help mitigate flooding to impacted counties. Currently, Lake Ontario is 31 inches above its level of one year ago and while these levels are not anticipated to increase in the near future, forecasters expect that it will take many weeks for water levels to normalize.

All New Yorkers are encouraged to sign up for NY-Alert, the state's free, all hazards subscription-based alerting system. For more information and to register, please visit www.nyalert.gov. For information on flood safety visit the DHSES website at www.dhses.ny.gov/oem/safety-info/flood. For more information on the Storm Recovery Permit, visit the DEC website. Details of the general permit and instructions for applicants can be found at: www.dec.ny.gov/permits/89343.html