WASHINGTON, DC –Congressman Jim Himes (CT-4) today sent a letter to Governor M. Jodi Rell urging an appeal of FEMA’s decision to deny federal assistance to individuals and businesses affected by severe weather including a tornado this past June.  The damage in Fairfield County is localized in Bridgeport, CT, one of the most economically distressed cities in the state. 

Click here to see a copy of the letter

“I am incredibly disappointed with FEMA’s decision to deny the State of Connecticut’s request for a federal disaster declaration,” said Himes.  “The severity of damage as a result of the storm on June 24, and the subsequent impact on families and businesses in Bridgeport is extensive.  On the heels of March storms in the same area that were declared a major disaster, recovery and rebuilding efforts from this incident have been made only that much more difficult.  Those who live in the affected areas need this federal assistance to move forward.”

On August 23, the Connecticut Congressional Delegation joined together to urge President Obama to declare a major disaster for Fairfield County as a result of the storm.  The declaration would provide federal assistance to the communities, businesses, and residents impacted by the severity and magnitude of the storm’s damages.