Waterford leaders urge legislative help after federal reimbursement falls short for blizzard costs

First Selectman Robert Brule said Waterford will not receive federal reimbursement for emergency costs from the Feb. 22 blizzard because Connecticut did not meet the statewide threshold required for a FEMA public assistance declaration.

"We just had the biggest blizzard we've had since 1938 and we're getting no help," Brule said during the Board of Selectmen meeting, arguing he would ask state legislators to pursue relief for the hard-hit region.

Steve, a town emergency-management official, explained the two-step federal-state claims process the town followed: towns submit damage estimates and supporting payroll and contract backup; counties must meet individual thresholds and the state must reach a higher statewide threshold before the state applies to FEMA. He said New London and Windham counties combined reported roughly $3.83 million in damage estimates, but the statewide total reached only about 55% of the level required for a federal claim, so no federal funds will be distributed to towns.

Brule said he had asked town staff to contact legislators and noted conversations with state leaders as part of his advocacy. "I just wanted you to ask this only to give me that information so I can send it myself," he said, adding local taxpayers will absorb the costs unless alternative funding is found.

Board members discussed other funding pressures. A colleague noted recent federal spending shifts and reductions in pandemic-related funds that can limit the state's ability to distribute aid; members agreed pursuing help from state legislators was "worth an ask."

The board did not take a formal vote on further action at the meeting but directed staff to keep documenting costs and continue outreach to state and federal representatives. The town will compile payroll records, bills and other backup documentation needed should a supplemental funding opportunity arise.