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1. What do I do now that Essex County has received a FEMA disaster declaration?

Residents whose homes or businesses were affected by Tropical Storm Ida may now apply for disaster assistance from FEMA at https://www.disasterassistance.gov/ . If you are applying for both home and business disaster assistance, complete one registration to cover both.

2. What do I do if I am still waiting on remediation or home repairs?

If you have not already removed wet or water-damaged drywall or materials from your home or business, please do so as soon as possible to mitigate damages. Cleanup and mold remediation should take priority to prevent further damage. If you have concerns about mold in an area over 10 square feet, we recommend seeking a professional mold remediation company to treat the area. Click here for more information and resources from the CDC, FEMA and Red Cross for post-storm cleanup.

3. What if I have insurance? If I have homeowners insurance, can I still apply for FEMA assistance?

Be sure to file a claim with your insurance company before applying for FEMA disaster assistance. If your insurance does not cover all your losses or is delayed, you may be eligible for FEMA assistance regarding your unmet needs. Document everything and continue to document if anything additional occurs related to flooding damage (e.g., mold growth).

4. How long will it take to hear back from FEMA?

Given the size and nature of the disaster declaration area in New Jersey, FEMA is receiving heavy call volumes and applications. Once you have applied for FEMA assistance, your case will be reviewed. Agents will not be able to provide information about your individual damage assessment or inspections. The agency asks that applicants monitor the status of their case online. FEMA is responding to disaster declarations in multiple states. We appreciate everyone’s patience as the agency goes through their process.

5. What is the Township doing to assist affected residents and businesses?

The Township of Millburn is waiving fees on permits and expediting inspections for homes and businesses damaged by flooding. The Department of Public Works continues to collect storm related debris from hard hit areas in town. Residents may put debris at the curb through end of day Monday, September 13 for final collections.

On a larger scale, the Township Committee and Township officials will be engaging in discussions regarding flood mitigation, potential public infrastructure projects. The Township Committee continues to be heavily involved in the Mayors Rahway River Coalition for improvements along the Rahway River.

6. I’m a resident experiencing immediate hardship in the aftermath of Ida. Where can I go for help?

A number of resources currently exist for residents affected by flooding:

• Down the Block is providing short-term financial assistance to impacted residents. For information visit https://www.downtheblock.org/ or e-mail contact@downtheblock.org
• Residents Joanna Parker Lentz and Micole Richter are organizing volunteers and additional assistance. Visit their booth on Millburn Avenue or e-mail joanna@jodiandjoanna.com or micole@gmail.com.
• The Township’s Health and Human Services Coordinator Ana Millan can be reached at amillan@millburntwp.org for assistance.

7. I’m a small business owner. How can I get help?

Visit Explore Millburn-Short Hills online at https://exploremillburnshorthills.org, or contact them at info@exploremillburnshorthills.org or (973) 921-2829.

8. What If I am unable to apply for FEMA disaster assistance online?

If you do not have access to a computer/laptop, you can visit Town Hall for assistance in filing or can visit the Millburn Township Library to utilize their computers. Please during regular operating hours. Please note you will require the following information to file: social security number, annual household income, contact information, insurance information, bank account information and an email address. If you do not provide an email address, you will be required to contact FEMA for any updates to your registration.

Residents can call the FEMA helpline at 1-800-621-3362 for assistance filing via phone.