Maui storm damage totals $1.2M
Advertiser Staff
Maui County sustained $1.2 million in damage from the storms of early December and is seeking federal loan assistance, the county announced last night.
County, state and federal officials conducted a preliminary damage assessment last week of damage caused by the heavy rains, high winds and high surf of Dec. 3-5.
In mid-December, officials reached an initial assessment of 29 homes or businesses classified as major or destroyed, and another 65 classified as sustaining minor damage.
The state, on behalf of the county, has submitted an application for help from the Small Business Administration. If the SBA approves the application, qualified nongovernment entities such as residents and small business owners may apply for low-interest loans, which are 2.75 % over 30 years.
Local government officials expect to hear from the SBA by tomorrow, said a news release from Maui County.
The baseline criterion to make an application for SBA assistance is 25 homes or businesses that sustained damages classified as major or destroyed. Additionally, these must have 40 percent uninsured loss.
In addition, the state has submitted to the Federal Emergency Management Agency an application on behalf of the county for federal funding. If approved, the county may be able to receive a 3-to-1 match for every dollar it spends on emergency services and repairs.
State and county officials continue this week to reach out to residents and businesses that have suffered losses.
Kevin Richards, coordinator of a Disaster Assistance and Recovery Center set up Tuesday at the Mayor Hannibal Tavares Community Center, said the State Civil Defense Agency recognizes that many residents who experienced hardships still need help.
State and county officials have heard from numerous residents whose homes were washed out with water, mud and debris.
Kimberly Alexander's three-bedroom rental unit on Lepelepe Street in Kula was gutted by the muddy water and debris rushing down the slopes.
"Everything was just destroyed," Alexander recalled after meeting with officials at the disaster center on Tuesday. She said she was able to grab a few personal items, but most of her family's clothing, household appliances and furniture were unsalvageable.
The Maui News contributed to this report.Make a difference. Donate to The Advertiser Christmas Fund.
