Culver criticizes FEMA denial of Lake Delhi help

Gov. Chet Culver called FEMA's decision to deny eligibility for public assistance to the Lake Delhi area an example of a federal agency changing the ruiles in the middle of a game.

FEMA said Aug. 24 Lake Delhi, which sustained damage in July 24 flooding, including the washout of a 200-foot earth-over-concrete dam, would not be eligible for assistance to rebuild public infrastructure.

Culver said that decision is in direct contradiction to the previous program determination by FEMA in 2008.

“This is an example of a federal government agency changing rules and regulations, and its interpretation of them, in the middle of a great hardship, getting in the way of help for Iowans who have lost so much in the floods,” Culver said.

He is encouraging the people of Lake Delhi to appeal the FEMA decision.

“It is the right thing to do and I will support them in these efforts,” Culver said. “ Let me say in the clearest possible terms – this is a matter of fairness. We will do everything we can to make things right.”