York County denied federal aid from April hailstorm
YORK, S.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — York County is not receiving federal aid requested in the aftermath of storms that devastated the area last month.
York County officials said that the Federal Emergency Management Agency has denied Gov. Henry McMaster’s request for individual assistance funds. On April 20, severe storms brought high winds and widespread hail that knocked out power to thousands, especially on the south side of Rock Hill.
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In a letter to the governor, FEMA said they determined that the damage “was not of such severity and magnitude as to be beyond the capabilities of the state, affected local governments and voluntary agencies.”
FEMA officials toured the communities in the storm path over two days earlier this month following McMaster seeking a major disaster declaration. They were joined by the York County Office of Emergency Management, South Carolina Emergency Management Division, The Small Business Administration, and the City of Rock Hill.
“Though the damage was severe, and we recognize the losses experienced by our citizens, FEMA determined that the level of damage did not meet the agency’s standard for federal assistance,” county officials said.
Following the decision, McMaster is expected to request that the Small Business Administration begin offering low-interest loans to individuals and businesses.
County officials expressed “sincere gratitude” to the many volunteers who stayed for days and even weeks helping home and business owners recover.
The state may appeal the decision within 30 days from FEMA’s May 22 letter.
Residents who still have questions about the storm can call the York County Office of Emergency Management at 803-326-2300.
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