KEENE, N.H. —
Five New Hampshire counties that were hit hard by flooding in July have qualified for federal assistance.
Officials said the money will help communities pay for repairs, and additional support could be on the way for small businesses and private nonprofit organizations.
State Rep. Jennifer Rhodes, R-Winchester, said the damage from the flooding was extensive.
“It’s actually almost indescribable,” said state Rep. Jennifer Rhodes, R-Winchester. “It’s monumental.”
Several counties in the state were quick to respond to make repairs right away.
“Cheshire County is pro at recovering quickly from anything,” said state Rep. Daniel Eaton, D-Stoddard.
But recovery costs money. In order to qualify for assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the state damages had to pass a threshold of more than $2.5 million. The damages ended up costing more than $8.5 million.
“I thought it’d be a little bit higher,” Eaton said. “I had no qualms or fears about it not hitting the threshold.”
Belknap, Carroll, Cheshire, Coos and Sullivan counties are a part of the disaster declaration, so they can move forward with getting federal aid.
“I think this is a great opportunity for Cheshire County, but it’s a great opportunity for anyone who was affected by the floods statewide in July,” Eaton said.
The Small Business Administration also expanded its incident period from July 7 to July 21 for Cheshire, Sullivan and Grafton counties, so small businesses and private nonprofit organizations can apply for disaster loans.
“The SBA has an amazingly talented, helpful and professional team in New Hampshire that just goes the extra mile for everybody,” Eaton said.
With the SBA loan, up to $2 million can be borrowed for what needs to be repaired or replaced.
“The extension is great, because if you have that kind of substantial damage, it actually gives you a minute to step back and assess, so you’re actually able to fill out the paperwork to the best of your knowledge,” Rhodes said.
Immediate repairs have been made to infrastructure in the affected communities, but Rhodes said the federal support can help all counties get back to normal.
Troy Lynch, WMUR News 9
