Village estimates ice storm cost at $400,000
By John Zornow

Special Newark Village Board meeting, April 10

Although Newark will sooner or later be included in multi-county disaster relief, local officials are considering the 'later' and not taking any chances.

'The criteria has been met,' said Newark Mayor Peter Blandino, who explained that the village is ready and able to furnish the documentation needed for reimbursement by FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) for costs associated with the recent ice storm.

As of the April 10 meeting, Newark had spent $83,500 for the hiring of Sessler, Empire Enterprises, Empire Tree, Cleason's, Mason Landscaping, and Newark Electric.

FEMA will send inspectors to review damage reports, contracts, and effects on local budgets. Based upon this, area counties could be declared federal disaster areas and become eligible for federal and state aid up to 87.5 percent. It could take several weeks to obtain word on any FEMA assistance.

Newark's ice storm clean-up bill could be as high as $400,000. Not ready to count on state or federal aid for clean-up, and uncomfortable with a proposed 'bare bones budget,' the board members discussed their options at the special meeting.

If enough aid is not forthcoming, Newark Village will have to dip into already low reserves in their 2003-2004 budget. Last fall's flooding, and this year's harsh winter add to the dilemma faced by the board.

'Let's be honest with the situation,' said Trustee Kurt Werts, as he moved to increase to five percent the proposed increase in the tax rate for fiscal 2003-04. He was supported by Mayor Blandino and rest of the board 4-0.

Newark is not alone, as every village and town in Wayne County is faced with a similar situation. The Town of Arcadia has estimated costs so far at over $207,767.

On April 14, Gov. Pataki filed with the federal government for an emergency declaration for Wayne and 13 other counties.