Governor Bentley Announces More than $900,000 Available to Eight Alabama Counties for Safer Homes

MONTGOMERY—Governor Bentley on Wednesday announced some Alabama residents will have an opportunity to make their homes safer from severe weather.  As a result of the federal  disaster declaration for Hurricane Isaac in 2012, hazard mitigation funds are now available for the following eight Alabama counties: Baldwin, Covington, Dallas, Geneva, Mobile, Monroe, Perry and Pickens.

“Alabama is no stranger to the effects of a natural disaster,” Governor Robert Bentley said. “We’ve learned that preparedness is the key to surviving the effects of a storm. These funds will allow our residents to be better prepared for the next time a devastating storm hits Alabama.”

For the two coastal counties, Governor Bentley’s priorities are residential wind retrofit.  This initiative focuses on but is not limited to securing the roof system, water intrusion resistance, installing impact-resistant windows, modifying attic ventilation openings and installing a new roof covering.  Eligible primary homeowners will qualify for a one-time $5,000 reimbursable hazard mitigation grant.

For the six additional counties, the Governor’s priorities are individual and community safe rooms.

“This mitigation funding provides another avenue to ensure life-safety and personal preparedness,” Alabama EMA Director Art Faulkner said.

Potential applicants will need to contact their county EMA office for assistance in submitting their applications. Coastal applicants opting to benefit from the wind retrofit may be eligible for a discount or rate reduction in their insurance, as mandated in Act 2009-500. For more information to assist homeowners with retrofitting their home to the proper state standard visit http://www.aldoi.gov/Companies/ConstructionStandards.aspx.