GREENE – New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo announced August 1 that more than 1.3 million dollars in Federal Flood Mitigation Funding will be offered to the Village of Greene to support properties damaged during Tropical Storm Lee in 2011. This money is provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

The funds granted to the Village of Greene will be utilized in supporting the elevation of 13 residential properties within the village that were damaged during the storm approximately a year and a half ago, and were also affected in 2006 during the flooding that occurred throughout Chenango County.

Village of Greene Mayor Phill Brown said, “This is good news for many of the residents that have now suffered through two floods, first in 2006 then in 2011. I think it is great, and hopefully these residents will take advantage of this opportunity.”

All of the residential properties receiving the funding are within the village limits, added the mayor.

“Tropical Storm Lee caused devastating damage in areas of the Southern Tier, including the Village of Greene, and unfortunately severe storms are likely to happen again in this region,” said Governor Cuomo. “FEMA recognizes that the Village is vulnerable to flooding, and this funding will help affected owners to strengthen their properties against this threat. That is exactly what we are continuing to do across the state because experience has taught us that in the face of changing climate, we must build back stronger and smarter than before. Elevating these properties will mitigate loss and damage, ensuring that the community is better prepared for the future.”

It was initially announced in September of 2011 after the storm hit that FEMA would make disaster aid available to homeowners, renters and small businesses affected by the flooding caused by tropical storm Lee.

In September of 2011 Cuomo had said, “The recent flooding caused widespread damage across the Southern Tier and I thank FEMA for their prompt decision to help New Yorkers recover.”