Rep. Carolyn McCarthy, D-Mineola, recently spoke at the North Bellmore Civic Association meeting regarding concerns regarding Hurricane Sandy damage and the fact that many have still not received money for rebuilding.
“Sometimes, I don’t understand where members are,” McCarthy said regarding getting more financial support to the area for fixes. “An emergency fund is an emergency fund. It was through no fault of anyone that we had that terrible storm.”
McCarthy added that when other states have gone through similar emergencies, “the money has always been made available sooner than in this case.”
Another concern McCarthy shared was the damage to Long Beach, citing the area as being a major tourist attraction come summertime. She also added that Long Beach is the barrier island and serves as protection to the other parts of the area.
“So it’s important that we are able to get the monies to rebuild those barrier islands,” she said.
For those still waiting for money for fixes, McCarthy urged her constituents to call her office at 516-739-3008, and her staff will help. She also said that FEMA’s not here to “make you whole. They’re here to help you through an emergency.”
Another topic of discussion was flood insurance, which McCarthy said is something everyone should have.
“Hopefully, you never have to use it,” McCarthy said. “But it really is important to look into. Those on the water are going to be paying a lot more.”
She also added that a lot of companies are dropping customers from their plans in the wake of the storm, and she cautioned locals to be extra careful while going through the mail.
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