Jamestown reports $176K in FEMA storm reimbursements and executive director retirement
November 04, 2024 | Jamestown, Newport County, Rhode Island
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The Jamestown Regular Council Meeting held on November 4, 2024, addressed several key issues impacting the community, with a focus on financial updates related to storm recovery and local leadership changes.
During the meeting, the council approved a business application for Standards, a company operating at 40 Narragansett Avenue, signaling ongoing support for local enterprises. This approval reflects the council's commitment to fostering a vibrant business environment in Jamestown.
A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the administrator's report, where updates on Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) reimbursements were discussed. The town has successfully secured $176,038.46 in reimbursements related to storm events from December and January. These funds cover various expenses, including labor, equipment, materials, and debris removal, highlighting the town's proactive approach to disaster recovery.
One notable aspect of the report was the investment in the bathhouse at Fort Getty, which has been reengineered for easier relocation to prevent future damage. This improvement demonstrates the town's commitment to infrastructure resilience. However, the council faced a setback when an application for additional mitigation funds for beach and dune engineering was denied by FEMA. The new FEMA policy ties mitigation funding more closely to storm events, complicating the funding process for future projects.
The administrator praised the efforts of Tina, a key staff member, for her exceptional work in managing the reimbursement process, which was completed in under nine months. This efficiency is commendable and reflects well on the town's administrative capabilities.
Additionally, the meeting touched on the upcoming retirement of Evan Smith, the executive director of Discover Newport, who has served the organization for many years. His departure marks a significant change in local leadership, as Discover Newport plays a crucial role in promoting tourism and economic development in the region.
In conclusion, the Jamestown Regular Council Meeting highlighted important financial recoveries from recent storms and the ongoing support for local businesses. The discussions also pointed to the need for continued efforts in disaster preparedness and community leadership transitions, setting the stage for future developments in the town.
During the meeting, the council approved a business application for Standards, a company operating at 40 Narragansett Avenue, signaling ongoing support for local enterprises. This approval reflects the council's commitment to fostering a vibrant business environment in Jamestown.
A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the administrator's report, where updates on Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) reimbursements were discussed. The town has successfully secured $176,038.46 in reimbursements related to storm events from December and January. These funds cover various expenses, including labor, equipment, materials, and debris removal, highlighting the town's proactive approach to disaster recovery.
One notable aspect of the report was the investment in the bathhouse at Fort Getty, which has been reengineered for easier relocation to prevent future damage. This improvement demonstrates the town's commitment to infrastructure resilience. However, the council faced a setback when an application for additional mitigation funds for beach and dune engineering was denied by FEMA. The new FEMA policy ties mitigation funding more closely to storm events, complicating the funding process for future projects.
The administrator praised the efforts of Tina, a key staff member, for her exceptional work in managing the reimbursement process, which was completed in under nine months. This efficiency is commendable and reflects well on the town's administrative capabilities.
Additionally, the meeting touched on the upcoming retirement of Evan Smith, the executive director of Discover Newport, who has served the organization for many years. His departure marks a significant change in local leadership, as Discover Newport plays a crucial role in promoting tourism and economic development in the region.
In conclusion, the Jamestown Regular Council Meeting highlighted important financial recoveries from recent storms and the ongoing support for local businesses. The discussions also pointed to the need for continued efforts in disaster preparedness and community leadership transitions, setting the stage for future developments in the town.
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