Congressman Andrews asks Gov. Christie to call for a state of emergency

Haddon Heights, NJ – Earlier today, Congressman Andrews urged Governor Chris Christie to declare a state of emergency for Camden, Gloucester and Burlington Counties. If granted, this declaration will trigger the release of federal funds to help communities recover from the current snowstorm, which has already unleashed up to two feet of snow throughout South Jersey.

“As the snow persists, the cost of plowing, cleaning, and protecting our neighborhoods continues to mount,” said Congressman Andrews. “With more and more families out of work and struggling to make ends meet, taxpayers cannot afford to pay the costs resulting from another blizzard – emergency assistance will save money for taxpayers and decrease the burden on overstretched local budgets.”

This winter has been especially difficult for families throughout our region. The storm currently hitting our neighborhoods is even harsher than that of mid-December, which was already identified as a “Major Disaster” by President Obama.

In addition to today’s request for a state of emergency, the Congressman has been working with county and local officials throughout South Jersey to see that our neighborhoods receive federal grant relief for the snowstorm that occurred on December 19th and 20th. As part of the National Federal Coordinating Officer (FCO) Program, the President announced yesterday that New Jersey’s southern counties were eligible for Hazard Mitigation Grants, which the Congressman has been working to deliver to the district. For many neighborhoods, not only is today’s storm much worse than that of mid-December but individuals and communities continue to suffer the long term financial effects of December’s blizzard, making today’s harsh conditions even worse.

Below is Congressman Andrews’ letter to Governor Christie addressing the need for a state of emergency to help those hit hard by the ongoing storm:
 
February 6, 2010

Office of the Governor
PO Box 001
Trenton, NJ 08625


Dear Governor Christie:

Our state is experiencing a severe weather storm of historic proportions. The National Weather Service is predicting two feet of snow, blowing wind, and other harsh conditions. Our citizens are facing enormous challenges in dealing with this situation.

I therefore urge you to declare a state of emergency for Camden, Gloucester, and Burlington counties. This declaration will provide resources to help people living in these counties to cope with continued recovery efforts during and after this current storm.

Thank you for considering this request on behalf of the people of Camden, Gloucester, and Burlington counties. I look forward to working with you to address the challenges presented by this storm.

Sincerely,

Rob Andrews
Member of Congress

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