The Juneau Assembly approved a local disaster declaration Monday night in the wake of the record-breaking flooding this weekend that occurred in the Mendenhall Valley.
The declaration asks for funds from the state government and in the event of need or required, even the Federal government. The declaration also permits the city to cover the costs associated with the cleanup, without observing the city’s purchasing code, which is focused on the highest price.
“A Local emergency declaration enables us to acquire goods and services quicker should it be necessary,” said Deputy City Manager Robert Barr.
The city has razed eight buildings, which has forced the displacement of around 20 families. It’s not yet clear how many people will be permanently relocated and how many are capable of returning to their homes.
While the majority of the damage occurred towards private homes, a portion of city properties are also in need of repairs. Three lift stations had been completely submerged, causing the loss of sewer services to homes nearby. The three lift stations are all back functioning, although one needs further repairs. Vacuum trucks are removing the silt out of storm drains.
in an interview with the BBC, Barr stated that the federal or state government could provide public assistance, which reimburses the city’s cost to fix things such as roads and water treatment systems or give individual assistance which is a direct payment to homeowners.
He advised homeowners to capture photos and keep their receipts when they begin repairs and cleanup to ensure they qualify for individual assistance.
The city also allows homeowners improve their land without having to obtain permission first, however they request that homeowners inform their Community Development Department as soon as they can. The homeowners will need to submit applications for permits within a month from the time they begin their work.
City officials also said Monday night that homeowners who’s homes were damaged, or destroyed may be qualified to receive an assessment tax reassessment, that could result in a lower tax bill this year. Homeowners may contact an assessor’s office by calling (907) 586-5215, ext. 4906 or Assessor.Office@juneau.gov to begin that process.
Volunteers and homeowners have been collecting construction materials, furniture and other trash. Katie Koester, the city’s director of public works and engineering and public works, said the city is trying to improve the disposal options for waste. The landfill is only accessible to residents between 8 a.m. until noon on Saturdays. Koester stated that they are working together along with Waste Management to try to extend the hours.
The span style=”font-weight 400 ;”>”One of the issues that they face naturally is the staffing,” she said. “They must also ensure that there’s no dangerous waste in these products .”
Koester stated that she believes the Coast Guard has been looking for oil sheens that have been spotted from the loss of fuel tanks, as well as other debris. Koester said “homeowners have done an excellent job of making a direct report” directly to Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation in the event of an oil spill or a loose fuel tank. The phone number for hotline calls is 1-800-478-9300.
Koester explained that Koester said the Salvation Army has food boxes waiting for families affected by the flooding. Residents who’ve been displaced because of the flooding can contact floodresponse@juneau.gov about shelter and other resources.
