Napaskiak, Alaska — More than 20 residents gathered on Monday, October 27th, for a public meeting in Napaskiak to discuss ongoing recovery efforts following severe damage from recent storms. Representatives from the City of Napaskiak, the Village Council, the Association of Village Council Presidents (AVCP), Naps Inc., and the Division of Forestry & Fire Protection were in attendance.
Photo Credit: Emily Hjortstorp
Jon Cox, Task Force Lead with the Division of Forestry & Fire Protection, provided an update on home assessments conducted throughout the community. According to Cox, a total of 21 homes were inspected, with 10 showing signs of water damage. The Division has already removed water-damaged floor insulation and installed heaters in four of the affected homes.
Photo Credit: Emily Hjortstorp
Throughout the meeting, residents and local leaders raised questions about the next steps in the rebuilding process. Many asked when new materials, such as floor insulation, plywood, and other construction supplies would arrive. Others discussed ways to hire local residents to assist with rebuilding efforts.
Representatives from each community organization shared ideas for addressing these needs. By the end of the meeting, participants agreed to continue collaborating over the next week and to hold another public meeting soon to review progress.
Emily Hjortstorp, also with the Division of Forestry & Fire Protection, explained how residents can apply for individual assistance through the State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC), the Red Cross, and FEMA.
Despite the challenges, the meeting closed on a note of gratitude. Community members expressed heartfelt thanks to the Division of Forestry & Fire Protection for their rapid response and ongoing support. They also extended appreciation to local and state leadership for making it possible for DOF to assist in recovery efforts following the catastrophic typhoon.
Categories: Alaska DNR - Division of Forestry (DOF)
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