SACRAMENTO, CA – Today Senator Monique Limón and Assemblymember Gregg Hart called on Governor Newsom to request an expedited Major Disaster Declaration from the Biden Administration for Santa Barbara County in response to the unprecedented damage caused by last weekend’s atmospheric rivers. With continual rainfall and potential flooding events on the horizon, Senator Limón and Assemblymember Hart also requested the State secure resources at the federal level, including the assistance of FEMA and the Army Corps of Engineers, to clear out the debris basins that are near or at capacity.
"Many of the critical debris basins that protect our community are near capacity, and further federal assistance is urgently necessary to protect lives and property" said Hart. "At least three more significant storms are forecast in the near future. The urgency of clearing out the debris basins cannot be overstated."
"We appreciate the Administration’s fast action in collaboration with our federal partners, local governments, and first responders to make significant progress to protect our communities" said Senator Limòn. "A Major Disaster Declaration is urgently needed to unlock necessary federal support."
According to initial damage estimates, most of the critical debris basins that protect the community are completely full with more than 550,000 cubic yards of material. This extraordinary quantity of debris requires additional federal assistance.
The text of the letter sent to Governor Newsom can be found here.
CONTACT:
Asm. Hart: Jimmy Wittrock (916) 319-2037/ (509) 251-1432
Sen. Limón: Christina Montoya (916) 524-3396