Placer County approved to apply for FEMA assistance for winter storms

Placer County has been approved to apply for funding assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) due to storms in December and January. A disaster declaration made by President Joe Biden due to the storms orders federal aid to supplement state, local and tribal recovery efforts for emergency work and the repair or replacement of damaged facilities. According to the FEMA website, eligible efforts include debris removal, emergency protective measures and permanent work, which includes public utilities, water control facilities, roads and bridges. The Placer County Board of Supervisors unanimously ratified a local emergency proclamation due to the storms on Jan. 10. Storm impacts in Placer included flooding, downed trees, power outages, a rock slide on Ophir Road and the possibility of triggered debris flows in the burn scar areas of the River and Mosquito fires. The news release notes the financial assistance will save taxpayers up to $3.8 million. "This declaration is a massive boost for our county," Placer County Board Chair and District 3 Supervisor Jim Holmes said in a written statement. "This assistance will help us recover from the winter storms and ensure that our community remains strong and resilient." According to the news release, Placer County qualified for public assistance federal funding but does not qualify for individual assistance, which would offer support directly to impacted residents. The county release notes residents who sustained significant storm damage are encouraged to contact their insurance provider.