07.26.16

Hoeven Reviews Drayton Levees, Continues Push to Ensure They Remain as Part of Permanent Flood Protection Plan

Senator Successfully Urged FEMA to Approve City’s Request for a Six-Month Extension to Remove Levee

DRAYTON, N.D. – Senator John Hoeven today reviewed levees in Drayton that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is trying to remove under current policy that bars construction on lands bought out with federal funds from FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, which were allocated after the 1997 flood disaster. Last week, Hoeven announced that, at his urging, FEMA approved Drayton’s request for a six-month extension on the deadline to remove the dikes.

In addition, as chairman of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Appropriations Committee, the senator has included legislation in the department’s appropriations bill that will authorize FEMA to allow Drayton and other cities to retain structures like the Drayton dikes permanently, providing the construction is part of a flood control project and conforms to other criteria established by FEMA policy.

“On more than one occasion in the last decade, the levees have formed the frontline of defense for the city’s people, property and businesses by holding back flood waters,” Hoeven said. “The levees have been properly maintained over the years and it makes sense to maintain the existing flood control project. Moreover, this commonsense measure will help not only the city of Drayton, but other communities throughout the state as well. I appreciate FEMA’s efforts to work with us on this issue, which will hopefully keep the community safe from floods.”

In June, Hoeven spoke with Roy Wright, Deputy Associate Administrator for Insurance and Mitigation at FEMA, who agreed to work with the senator and the city to secure the six-month extension.

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