FEMA update reveals progress on 16 validated recovery projects and funding status

The Beauregard Parish Committee meeting on May 5, 2025, focused on receiving an update from FEMA regarding ongoing recovery projects. The discussion highlighted the progress made on various projects and the challenges still faced in securing reimbursements.

During the meeting, it was reported that out of 21 projects, 16 have been fully validated, meaning they meet the necessary criteria for reimbursement from FEMA and insurance. However, the remaining projects are still pending completion, which is essential before any claims can be submitted for state reimbursement. The committee emphasized the importance of submitting invoices as they are received to maintain the flow of funding.

To date, Beauregard Parish has received over $12 million from insurance, with an outstanding balance of approximately $500,000 still being processed. Additionally, FEMA has disbursed $1.14 million, but there remains about $600,000 worth of work that has not yet been invoiced. The committee plans to submit another $93,000 in invoices to the state by the end of the week.

A significant issue raised during the update was the categorization of projects. It was noted that multiple campuses were grouped under a single project, complicating the validation process. The committee aims to address this by ensuring that each campus is treated as an individual project, which would streamline future reimbursements.

Overall, the meeting underscored the ongoing efforts to navigate the complexities of disaster recovery funding and the importance of completing projects to secure necessary financial support. The committee will continue to monitor progress and submit invoices as work is completed.