Navigating Challenges for FEMA Reimbursement Workshop
November 27, 2024
The Navigating Challenges for FEMA Reimbursement Workshop was held at CSAC’s 130th Annual Meeting in Los Angeles County. The panel was co-moderated by Supervisor Diane Burgis of Contra Costa County and Supervisor Zach Friend of Santa Cruz County, who also serves as the CSAC Health and Human Services Policy Committee Chair.
The panelists consisted of:
- Robert J. Fenton, Jr., Federal Emergency Management Agency Region IX Administrator
- Nancy Ward, California Office of Emergency Services Director
- Tim Ewell, Chief Assistant County Administrator, Contra Costa County
- Angie Mannel, Recovery Specialist, Butte County
The workshop provided an opportunity for county leaders and staff to ask questions directly to emergency management representatives and experts in the field. Attendees sought clarity on the federal claim and reimbursement process and heard from the local, state, and federal perspective. County experts highlighted specific successes and challenges their counties have had in securing funding and timely reimbursement to cover the costs associated with providing emergency support, specifically when responding to emergencies such as the COVID-19 pandemic, wildfires, and flooding.
Panelists shared their knowledge and key takeaways when responding to a disaster which included setting reasonable expectations amongst county staff when seeking aid with clear communication at all levels; and ensuring detailed documentation is kept during emergencies particularly when seeking reimbursements. Panelists further explored the top reasons why FEMA public assistance claims are not successful and best practices learned from persistent responses to emergencies.
The slide deck presentation from FEMA is available for viewing at CSAC’s website here.
