Area Parishes Receive Federal Disaster Aid

In Bossier Parish, the largest expense was the stablizing and repairing of the Red Chute Bayou levee. Officials say since more money will still likely have to be spent on projects like those, any chance of a reimbursal helps.

"To include bringing the levee back up to the standard that it was prior to the storm was about 8.9 millon dollars," Sandy Davis, director of the Caddo-Bossier Office of Homeland Security, said.

Davis, says Bossier spent the most money out of all nine parishes receiving federal aid.

"There was no question as to whether the local governmental agencies could have spent the money. They needed to to get back to normal operating," he continued.

People like Phyllis Marsiglia depended on the millions of dollars spent. If the Red Chute levee had breeched, her home would have been one of the first ones to go. She says she happy to hear the areas getting federal aid and hopes more will spent to keep residents liike her safe,

"Id like to stay here so I do not want to move again," he said.

For now, the "public assistance" re-imbursment will only pay back governmental agencies like the fire department and red cross. Officials say individuals may soon get help, but need to remain patient in the meantime.

Local agencies will meet again with FEMA officials next week to go over more details. It could take months for the "public assistance funds" to become available.

The Caddo-Bossier Office of Homeland Security plans to apply for "individual assistance" funds in the next few weeks. If the government doesnt grant that reimbursment, the Office of Homeland Security will consider bringing in the Small Business Association. From there, individuals would be able to apply for small interest loans to help pay for damage.