Amy Sebring: Welcome to the Panel room of the Virtual Forum this fine St. Patrick's Day! Top o' the mornin' to y'all! Amy Sebring: We are wrapping up the Mitigation Quarter today with a Panel interview on the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program. Amy Sebring: Background information for today's session may be found at http://www.emforum.org/vforum/990317.htm Amy Sebring: We are honored to have with us a number of representatives from the state of Missouri to share their experiences following the major flooding experienced there. Amy Sebring: Mr. Buck Katt, Deputy Director, Missouri Emergency Management Agency had planned to be with us today, but he had an unexpected family emergency last night. Amy Sebring: We have Judy Collier sitting in for him for the intro, but he will obviously not be able to participate in the Question and Answer. Amy Sebring: We are pleased to welcome ... Amy Sebring: Ms. Destin Frost, State Hazard Mitigation Officer, Missouri Emergency Management Agency ... Amy Sebring: Ms. Melva Fast, Grant Coordinator, City of Jefferson City, Missouri ... Amy Sebring: and Mr. Ken Eftink, Development Services Coordinator, Cape Girardeau, Missouri... Amy Sebring: whom we hope will be joining us. Amy Sebring: Welcome to you all. We will take about 30 minutes for an interview style presentation, and then open it up to the audience. Amy Sebring: We begin with Mr. Katt ... Amy Sebring: Buck, as a basis for our discussion today, please give us some historical background on the HMGP and its purpose. Buck Katt: Hazard mitigation became an important component of disaster recovery in 1988 when the Disaster Relief Act of 1974 was amended by the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act. Buck Katt: The "Stafford" Act allowed the federal government (i.e. FEMA) to contribute up to 50% of the cost of hazard mitigation projects. Buck Katt: In 1993, the Hazard Mitigation and Relocation Assistance Act amended the Stafford Act to increase the amount the federal government may contribute from 50 to 75%. Buck Katt: Interestingly, Congressman Volkmer from Hannibal, Missouri introduced the 1993 amendment and this action set in motion the ability for states to really implement hazard mitigation activities that could make a substantial difference. Buck Katt: The purpose of the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program is to provide funding for projects that will reduce the effects of the next disaster event. Buck Katt: For example, assume a community is flooded and 30 homes are damaged. The community may request an HMGP grant to buyout those homes. The homes are acquired and demolished. The land is returned to its natural state. This is hazard mitigation. The land can now flood over and over again and there will be no consequence to the community or its residents. Buck Katt: That is the purpose of the HMGP. To make the next disaster event as uneventful as possible. Buck Katt: It should be pointed out though that the HMGP is strictly a post-disaster grant program. In other words, no funding is available until the President declares the area a disaster site. Amy Sebring: What are the objectives of the HMGP? Buck Katt: To make the next disaster event as uneventful as possible. To hopefully eliminate the need for disaster assistance in the future. Amy Sebring: How is the funding shared between federal, state, and local interests under the HMGP? Buck Katt: Up to 75% of the cost of a project can be provided by the federal government. The remaining 25% must be what is called a non- federal match. The non-federal match can be cash from either the state or local community or in-kind services provided by the local community. Amy Sebring: Thanks Judy for pitching in. We turn to our State Hazard Mitigation Officer next ... Amy Sebring: Destin, who is eligible for Hazard Mitigation funding? Destin Frost: States, local communities (city or county), Indian tribes, Alaska Native Villagers and to a certain extent not-for- profits. Amy Sebring: What types of projects may be funded in the public/private interest? Destin Frost: The types of projects eligible for funding can be of any nature that will result in protecting public or private property. Destin Frost: Amy Sebring: Examples? Destin Frost: Examples include property acquisition or relocation and retrofitting of facilities. Destin Frost: It should be pointed out that FEMA strongly encourages the buyout, elevation, or relocation of structures a priority. Amy Sebring: How do applicants apply for HMGP funding? Destin Frost: Local communities need to contact their State Emergency Management Agency for application procedures. Each state has established their own application process. Amy Sebring: From your Missouri experience, how much interest has there been in the hazard mitigation process? (number of applicants, etc.) Destin Frost: In Missouri the program is very competitive. We always have more projects than available funds. Destin Frost: For example, following the Great Flood of 1993, we had over $200 million in hazard mitigation funding requests but only $30 million to spend. Destin Frost: This is why it is very important for states to prioritize what they want to accomplish. In 1993, moving families out of harm's way was our main goal - - and remains our main focus. Destin Frost: We do know that nationally too, the program is very competitive. We work very closely with our state counterparts, helping each other out, and the HMGP is one of the most popular post- disaster grant programs. Amy Sebring: What type of success stories have been documented in the State of Missouri? Destin Frost: We have created several hazard mitigation success stories documents. The types of stories are mostly the flood buyout. Destin Frost: For example, in one community, Cape Girardeau, the total net historical flood insurance claims on the homes acquired in that community was over $1 million. Destin Frost: The community spent just a little over $2 million to accomplish the buyout. Those flood claims will never have to be paid out again. Steve McMaster: How do you get word out about availability of HMGP funds in Missouri? Amy Sebring: Steve, we will come to questions in just a bit. Destin Frost: The flood insurance claims were just one cost to the community. The fire department will not have to rescue flood victims, volunteers will not have to sandbag, the list goes on and on... Amy Sebring: For the local perspective, we now turn to Melva and Ken ... Amy Sebring: How did you first hear of the HMGP program and that your community might be eligible to apply? Amy Sebring: Melva please. Ken Eftink: We were aware of the program through our involvement in the National Flood Insurance Program. The local match was a problem for our community so our officials were reluctant to participate. However, in 1995, we were approached by Buck Katt and Destin Frost of the Missouri State Emergency Management Agency who made us aware of funding available through the State that would help the City with the local match. They met with us and we worked out a buyout program with funding from different source Amy Sebring: Melva are you with us? Melva fast: We heard of the program through the State Emergency Management Agency during the 1993 Flood in December. Amy Sebring: How much work was involved with your grant application and who participated in preparing it? Amy Sebring: Melva please, then Ken. Melva fast: The application was quite easy and the State Emergency Management staff offered assistance. Amy Sebring: Ken? Ken Eftink: he grant application was not that difficult. We had been tracking the properties affected by the flooding so we had a good list of properties and owners. The State helped facilitate several meetings to pull the partners together to work out the details. We had help from our local regional planning commission who works with us on other grant applications but the HMGP application was not difficult to complete. Amy Sebring: Why was YOUR application successful? Melva? Amy Sebring: (Melva's system is a little slower so please bear with us) Amy Sebring: Ken, please go ahead. Ken Eftink: Our application was successful for several reasons. One was the obvious need as a result of multiple flood events which resulted in repetitive loss that we had documented with maps and photographs. We prioritized our buyout based on the first floor elevation of the homes compared to the base flood elevation so that homes that flooded first were offered the buyout first. Ken Eftink: Another important reason was the partnership that came together for the program. FEMA/SEMA provided funding for acquisition and demolition, Missouri Department of Economic Development provided funding for relocation assistance and the Salvation Army and the Interfaith Coalition provided funding for unmet needs. Melva fast: Our application was successful because we could demonstrate a need that was significant and as I said the application was straightforward in what is required. Amy Sebring: Once you were awarded the grant, how did you make sure you stayed on track with your goals and requirements? Amy Sebring: Ken please go ahead, and then Melva jump in. Ken Eftink: Our project took more time than we anticipated. We found that the buyout people we were dealing with needed one on one consultations in order to fully understand the program before they would decide to participate. The coordination of the environmental engineer with the asbestos abatement contractor and the demolition contractor was an on-going problem. Ken Eftink: People who waited until the last minute to decide to participate also added time to the project but we were happy to get them. We did do a detailed expense report spread sheet that allowed to closely monitor our expenses so that we only missed the budget on the $2.7 million project by $7,000. Melva fast: Our city designated a project/grant coordinator who was responsible to meet the goals and objectives of the program as well the meet all of the requirements. Amy Sebring: That's pretty amazing the $7,000 Ken. Amy Sebring: What impact has this had in your community? Ken Eftink: We have gone from 151 homes affected by the Flood of 1993 to only 24 homes remaining, most of which are at higher elevations that would flood less frequently. Our disaster needs during a river flood event have been drastically reduced. There will be a substantial reduction in the cost of the City's response and well as other service organizations to a comparable flood event. After the 1993 flood event, we saw people working to help fix up homes with assistance from various agencies, churches Melva fast: It has been one of the most significant programs in the 150 year history of the City of Jefferson. No longer are residents and citizens living in the floodway and threatened by impending floods. City resources and staff can now direct their attention/resources to other needs. Ken Eftink: After the 1993 flood event, we saw people working to help fix up homes with assistance from various agencies, churches and private donations from around the world only to see many of the same homes flood again in 1995. These neighborhoods were run down because of the flooding and other social problems were starting to develop. The lesson we learned was that if you want to help people out, help them out of the floodplain. We have helped a significant number of families to now have a safe, decent Amy Sebring: Destin, how do these two communities fit into your overall state mitigation strategy? Destin Frost: For flooding, our overall state mitigation strategy is to move families out of harm's way. Destin Frost: Obviously, from what Ken and Melva have just described, these 2 communities Destin Frost: are perfect examples of how effective hazard mitigation can be. Amy Sebring: Thank you all. We will now open it up to our audience ... Keith Bea: For both state and local reps: What is the best federal role in local mitigation efforts? Funding source, tech. assistance, motivator, transferor of "best practices", or others? Should FEMA "strongly encourage" buyouts or take a more neutral stance? Amy Sebring: please remember to send in a question mark to indicate you wish to ask a question, then get your question ready, but wait until you are recognized before you send it in ... Amy Sebring: please indicate to whom your question is addressed. Amy Sebring: Let's see if we can start with Keith's question ... Amy Sebring: then we had an earlier one we will come back to. Amy Sebring: Destin, federal role? Keith Bea: Sorry for the absence of a question mark. My question is for both state and local reps. Destin Frost: There is a strong movement by state emergency management offices nationwide... Amy Sebring: Thanks Keith, we will give them each a chance. Destin Frost: to move the hazard mitigation grant program to the states as a block grant.... Destin Frost: This approach will (very much) streamline the process.... Destin Frost: The best federal role for local mitigation efforts is to provide the funding and offer suggestions/alternatives for mitigation efforts. Amy Sebring: Ken, Melva, do you have an opinion on the best federal role? Ken Eftink: FEMA through SEMA should encourage participation. It saves us all money not to mention the reduction in suffering due to displacement. Ken Eftink: SEMA is closer to the problem and other partners. Amy Sebring: We had an earlier question on how the word gets out about the availability of the program. Destin, were you involved at that point? Melva fast: I would concur with Ken. Destin Frost: Because the HMGP is a post-disaster program we send the word out immediately following a presidential event.... Destin Frost: We always send letters to each community in a declared area but we also know of existing needs in certain "at risk" communities so we try to do one-on-one approaches too. Amy Sebring: Other questions please? Keith Bea: ? Amy Sebring: Go ahead please Keith. Amy Sebring: ? Keith Bea: Are property owners always (without exception) ready to relocate? Have you experience with any reluctant to sell? Amy Sebring: Ken, you seem to have some experience with that ... Amy Sebring: Melva also? Ken Eftink: Not always. They may not be able to buy a replacement home for what we can offer. Keith Bea: ? Amy Sebring: Melva, your experience with reluctance to move? Amy Sebring: Are there some people that just don't want to move? Melva fast: After 1993, the flood was so devastating that owners (90%) "begged" for a buyout so that they could relocate. Others voluntarily stayed, but only a few---especially in those areas where rehab was not feasible. Amy Sebring: thank you. Avagene Moore: ? Amy Sebring: Destin, is there more emphasis now with State Haz Mitigation Officers ... Amy Sebring: to do a statewide hazard analysis ... Amy Sebring: for the purpose of developing state-wide mitigation strategies? Destin Frost: Most states (to my knowledge) have already conducted a statewide hazard analysis...... Destin Frost: The part that is weak is developing goals and objectives for... Destin Frost: reducing the effects of the hazards..... Shari Coffin: ? Keith Bea: ? Destin Frost: So, there is now a push to develop these goals and objectives...but personally... Destin Frost: Until there is a mandate that "no vision...no funds", I don't think the time... Destin Frost: will be spent on this type of planning like it should be. Amy Sebring: Keith, you were next. Keith Bea: How does the local community deal with the lower income families who cannot move? Amy Sebring: Ken, how did you solve this problem in your community, since you referred to it. Ken Eftink: We tried to look at the total needs of the families and ... Ken Eftink: the salvation Army and Interfaith helped meet their needs so they could move. Amy Sebring: Avagene is next please. Avagene Moore: Since flooding has been such a dramatic disaster, do you see evidence of mitigation measures being implemented in non- disaster communities? Is there more interest in mitigation because it is the sensible thing to do? Amy Sebring: Destin, do you want to take a crack at that one? Destin Frost: Yes. Without a doubt we have a heightened awareness and interest in mitigation. Melva fast: In Jefferson City, how program gave owners "pr-flood" value in the buyout. This allowed owners resources to find other housing opportunities. Most of the individuals, in fact, we low income. Ken Eftink: I hope so. It was not raining when Noah built the Ark. Amy Sebring: Shari next please. Shari Coffin: Do they do a cost-benefit analysis for each project; how does that work? Amy Sebring: Destin? Destin Frost: Yes, each project must be what is called cost EFFECTIVE..... Destin Frost: Part of that is do run the numbers and do a cost- benefit analysis.... Destin Frost: Mostly, the cost benefit ratio must be greater than 1... Destin Frost: However, we can submit projects that are less than 1 if it is obvious that other cost effective issues are involved. Amy Sebring: ? Amy Sebring: Destin, you have good data for previous flood experience now to factor in? ... Avagene Moore: ? Amy Sebring: and Ken or Melva, did you have previous experience with claims for flooding? Destin Frost: I don't think I understand your question. Melva fast: Not to my knowledge. Ken Eftink: We had over 300 flood insurance claims on 101 properties. Amy Sebring: You are looking at the flood history in these communities that you factor in Destin? Destin Frost: Yes, most certainly. Ken Eftink: The NFIP has records on repetitive loss for a community. Amy Sebring: Avagene please. Melva fast: I'm sure there were hundreds of flood insurance claims, I initially responded to as to "city claims". Avagene Moore: How are you promoting the mitigation experiences and benefits throughout the State of Missouri? Keith Bea: ? Amy Sebring: Destin, and then I would like to know if Ken and Melva have been sharing their experience with other communities in Missouri. Destin Frost: Our promotion efforts have been varied... Destin Frost: 2 years ago we developed a professional flood insurance commercial featuring our Governor... Destin Frost: This did not increase the number of flood policies much... Melva fast: I have received a few calls from communities but more about how to run a buyout program after the funding was awarded. Ken Eftink: I will be giving two programs at the Missouri Floodplain Manager Association meeting in April to share our experiences. Destin Frost: We also host an earthquake awareness week whereby mitigation efforts are demonstrated... Destin Frost: For the most part, it's word of mouth. Again, we know those communities... Shari Coffin: ? Destin Frost: that are mostly "at risk" and we seem to target them individually. Amy Sebring: I think we have time for first Keith, then Shari. Amy Sebring: Keith please. Amy Sebring: Ok, Keith is having tech difficulty ... Amy Sebring: Shari please. Shari Coffin: Have you done any projects other than buyouts? Amy Sebring: Destin, and then Ken, Melva do you have any other mitigation projects planned? Destin Frost: Yes, we have funded the purchase and installation of 3 NOAA Weather Transmitters, 2) purchased digitized FIRM maps so our communities have access to computerized flood maps; several small earthquake grants; bridge removal and a small channel realignment project. Ken Eftink: We are working on a flood control project that includes channelization and stormwater detention... Ken Eftink: We have also elevated some streets and City structures Melva fast: The City is looking at a few later. Destin Frost: Oh, I forgot - we do elevations and relocations of residential structures too (just a few). Amy Sebring: Thank you very much Destin, Melva, and Ken for sharing your experiences with us today and a special thanks to Destin for helping to coordinate today's session and to Judy for pitching in. Amy Sebring: Before we close the Panel Room, Avagene will you please announce our upcoming events? Avagene Moore: Thanks, Amy. Next week, the International Association of Emergency Managers (IAEM) will lead our Round Table discussion on Tuesday, March 23, 1: 00 PM EST. ... Avagene Moore: The topic is mentoring --- two IAEM members will share their first-hand experiences. ... Melva fast: This would include protecting a major expressway through the City. Avagene Moore: On Weds, March 24, 12: 00 Noon EST.. Avagene Moore: the Open GIS Consortium (OGC) will be in the Tech Arena. ... Avagene Moore: The OGC focus will the Disaster Management Special Interest Group (DM SIG). Guest speakers will be Louis Hecht, Lance McKee and Jim Farley. ... Avagene Moore: Make your plans to be present for both sessions. Back to you, Amy. Amy Sebring: Thank you Ava, and thank you audience for joining us today. We will close the Panel room for today, but you are invited to join us for a few minutes more back in the Virtual Forum room for some open discussion.