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County pursues FEMA appeals after two storm‑repair denials; some projects already obligated
Summary
San Benito County told supervisors that FEMA has obligated several storm‑damage projects and issued payments, but denied reimbursement for two emergency pipe repairs (~$600,000) and declined to reimburse 11 RV trailers used for displaced residents; staff will file appeals and request congressional support.
County public works staff updated the Board on Feb. 25 about FEMA public‑assistance claims for damage from the December 2022 and February–March 2023 storms.
Steve Loop described the FEMA process (emergency protective measures, debris removal, and permanent repairs) and said several projects — including sheltering, Merrill Road and Lovers Lane — have been obligated and some reimbursements are being issued. Loop said the county has received roughly $700,000–$800,000 to date and that additional payments remain unpredictable despite obligations.
Denied claims and appeals: FEMA removed two pipe‑repair claims (Kalinga Road and Old Hernandez Road) — together about $600,000 — because the county completed the work before the agency’s environmental/historic preservation (EHP) staff had a chance to consult on site; FEMA’s environmental team said the county should have allowed prior review. The county will appeal those determinations. Loop also said FEMA denied reimbursement for 11 RV trailers the county purchased to shelter displaced residents; staff will repair and retain the trailers for future emergencies even as the reimbursement claim was denied.
Why it matters: FEMA reimbursement can materially affect county finances following major storms. Denials tied to environmental consultation and claim timing leave the county with contested costs and a short appeals window. Supervisors asked staff to prepare an explanatory letter and seek assistance from Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren’s office on the pipe‑repair appeals.
What’s next: Staff will file appeals for the two pipe repairs and coordinate a board letter for federal advocacy; they will also report back with updated FEMA payment statuses and any environmental actions required to secure obligations.
