The Catskill Chronicle

SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (November 7, 2012) – Sullivan County Manager David Fanslau has issued the following update about the hurricane aftermath and the approaching snow storm:

"NYSEG and Orange & Rockland Utilities continue to have staff at our Emergency Operations Center.  NYSEG has about 90 locations that remain out of power however those locations are expected to be repowered tonight.  Orange and Rockland Utilities (O & R) have more than 400 locations that remain out of power. O & R has told me that the majority is expected to be repowered tonight; however, there are some locations in the Phillipsport and Summitville areas of the Town of Mamakating that may not be restored tonight.  Sullivan County officials will continue to coordinate with the utilities companies until power is restored at 100% of locations throughout the County.

Sullivan County officials at the Emergency Operations Center are also closely following the track of a Winter Storm that will move across Sullivan County tonight. Northwest wind of between 11 to 15 mph is expected, along with a snow accumulation of 1 to 2 inches possible.

Sullivan County had requested a major disaster declaration for both Public Assistance (PA) for County and Municipal governments, and Individual Assistance (IA) for private property, from the Federal Emergency Management Agency. We are awaiting action by Governor Andrew M. Cuomo and President Barack Obama on Sullivan County’s request.  Senator Chuck Schumer and Senator Kirsten Gillibrand today sent a letter to FEMA today supporting Sullivan County’s request.

Senator John Bonacic has also sent a letter today to Governor Cuomo and Jerome Hauer, Commissioner of the New York State Division of Homeland Security & Emergency Services, requesting them to request a FEMA declaration for Sullivan County. Assemblywoman Aileen Gunther spoke with the Governor’s Office in Albany supporting Sullivan County’s request.

I want to thank our federal and state elected representatives in their assistance with cutting "red tape" for Sullivan County’s citizenry. Once Sullivan County is included in a declaration as a major disaster as a result of Hurricane Sandy, information will be publicized on how residents and businesses may contact FEMA to register for assistance."