FEMA officials validate 85% of South Beauregard school repairs after storm damage

In a recent committee meeting held on May 5, 2025, the Beauregard Parish government focused on the ongoing recovery efforts following recent storm damage to local schools. The discussions highlighted the financial allocations and progress made in restoring facilities, particularly at South Beauregard High School and South Beauregard Upper Elementary.

A key topic was the need for detailed financial tracking of expenditures per campus rather than per project, as the latter has proven to be overly complex. Officials emphasized the importance of understanding how funds are being utilized across different schools to ensure transparency and accountability.

James Minger, a FEMA site inspector, reported significant progress in validating damage assessments, with approximately 85% of the necessary evaluations completed. This validation is crucial for securing federal funding for repairs. The meeting underscored the challenges faced in adhering to FEMA's strict guidelines, particularly regarding compliance with building codes and the necessity for prior approval for any changes made during repairs.

The committee also discussed the extensive documentation required for reimbursement claims, noting that even minor changes, such as the installation of different light switches, must be justified. This meticulous process is intended to ensure that all repairs meet current safety standards, including ADA compliance and fire codes.

Looking ahead, the committee set a deadline of June 15 for submitting all necessary documentation to FEMA, which is essential for the timely allocation of funds. The school board has already invested approximately $8 million in repairs, and officials are optimistic that reimbursements will begin flowing quickly once the federal funds are released.

In addition to the recovery efforts, the meeting addressed potential weather concerns, with forecasts predicting heavy rains that could impact local schools. Officials are preparing for possible disruptions and are committed to keeping parents and students informed about any necessary changes to school operations.

Overall, the meeting reflected a proactive approach to managing recovery efforts and ensuring that the community's educational facilities are restored efficiently and effectively. The collaboration between local officials and FEMA representatives is expected to streamline the process, allowing for quicker resolutions to outstanding issues.