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Paradise In Danger Of Losing Clean-Up Reimbursement Funds From FEMA

PARADISE (CBS13) - Paradise could lose its funding for its FEMA-funded clean-up reimbursement after town leaders allowed residents to move back into areas where debris had not yet been removed.

In November 2018, the Camp Fire destroyed thousands of homes and businesses and displaced 26,000 residents. Debris left from the disaster posed a public health and safety emergency, so FEMA provided reimbursement funds so residents could move back and start over.

ALSO: Oroville Woman Told To Kick Out Camp Fire Evacuees Living On Her Property

However, faced with a housing crisis, the town council allowed RVs to be placed temporarily in Paradise prior to the debris removal, which may have put federal funds in jeopardy.

Leaders say they are working with FEMA to remedy the issue.

The town council issued the following statement:

"We are working closely with FEMA, CalOES and the County on a solution that is sensitive to the housing needs of our residents, their safety, as well as ensuring funding for the Cal-OES/FEMA debris removal program. In the meantime, we are suspending the issuance of temporary power permits until we have come to an understanding with our recovery partners."

 

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