West Valley Disaster Aid Denial Appealed

Rep. Anthony C. Beilenson (D-Woodland Hills) called Tuesday for the federal government to reverse its recent decision not to assist West Valley communities in disasters such as flooding and mudslides resulting from last year’s wildfires.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency, according to Beilenson, maintains that the eligibility period for disaster assistance has passed.

Beilenson told FEMA Director James Lee Witt in a letter that communities in his district will continue to suffer the economic effects of the fires. For instance, he wrote, the fires have denuded hillsides, making them prone to mudslides.

“Fire-impacted communities may very well incur mud and debris cleanup costs that directly result from last year’s firestorms for several more years,” Beilenson wrote. “FEMA should continue to reimburse those costs so long as the damage occurs.”

The communities affected by the decision, according to the congressman, are Agoura Hills, Westlake Village, Malibu and Thousand Oaks.

Westlake Village City Manager Ray Taylor praised Beilenson’s efforts.

“I think it’s prudent that we cities have the ability to tap into FEMA resources,” he said. “Disasters have no regard for boundaries or time.”

Michael Raphael, a public information officer for FEMA, said Tuesday that he wanted to check with his superiors in Washington before commenting on Beilenson’s letter.

“The incident period ended April 22 for the firestorms,” he said. “Any additional problems would have to be included in a new disaster declaration.”