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Chief estimates town costs from blizzard exceed $1 million; FEMA reimbursement possible but not guaranteed
Summary
Fire Chief John Lisonbee estimated the town's storm-related costs at just over $1 million and said FEMA reimbursement could recoup roughly 75% if thresholds are met; the manager cautioned there is no guarantee and thresholds and federal processes apply.
The council discussed reimbursement for blizzard response costs during the town manager's report and a question-and-answer exchange.
Fire Chief John Lisonbee said the initial estimate for North Kingstown's response and recovery costs from the blizzard was "just over $1,000,000." He described how personnel, overtime, vehicle use and extended operations factor into the estimate. Lisonbee said that when FEMA funding thresholds are met and a federal or state disaster declaration is issued, municipalities can apply for reimbursement and that historically the town could expect to recoup a substantial portion.
Lisonbee and the manager described an expected reimbursement split of about 75% for eligible costs, but both cautioned there is no guarantee: the state and FEMA review submissions and awards are subject to thresholds and federal budget decisions. The manager said departments were compiling detailed forms to submit to RIEMA to support any request for federal assistance and reimbursement.
