With remnants of Hurricane Sandy still littering the streets of Rye Brook, the board of trustees has decided to use money from the village”™s contingency fund, sewer account, and unallocated insurance dollars to pay for the overtime workers have accumulated and for tree cleanup.
Rye Brook Mayor Joan Feinstein said the village was “fortunate” they had the contingency dollars to cover the unforeseen cost of the storm that hit the Northeast more than a month ago.
Village officials did reveal they intend to ask for $200,000 worth of aid from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) that would reimburse some of the contingency fund. But they don”™t expect to receive the aid from FEMA until end of the fiscal year, which ends May 31.
There were reportedly 70 downed trees in the village”™s streets. Workers are still trying to clear debris from park areas, and trees caused a significant amount of property damage.
The board also recognized the hardship facing property owners and voted to waive fees for permits for cleanup and reconstruction. Those who have already paid can apply for reimbursement. Those seeking a refund or fee-waiving application have until April 29 to apply.
