Regional Planning & Economic Development in the Northeast Kingdom
David Snedeker, Executive Director
Northeastern Vermont Development Association Vermont Emergency Management (VEM) is making it easier for municipalities to participate in the FEMA Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) for property buyouts and there is an unprecedented amount of funding available. Municipalities should fill out the simple, non-binding pre-application form by August 16, 2024 in order to ensure properties are appraised based upon their pre-flood value. Properties that apply later, under future funding rounds, will be appraised based on post-flood value.
This VEM Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) is different from the VEM Flood Resilient Communities Fund (FRCF).
More info about the VEM Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP):
- Funding is available to ALL municipalities, not just those impacted in the 2023 flood events
- $0 local match required. The State will cover the 25% local match requirement
- Buyouts are Optional. The acquisition and demolition program is voluntary for both the property owner and the municipality
- While municipalities often weigh the impacts of taking a property off the grand list, leaving a damaged property as is can also have negative impacts on your grand list values. A buyout can be an ideal opportunity to create flood resilience green space or recreation areas
- Time is running out. Properties will be appraised at their pre-flood value but only for applications received under this funding round!
- Priority will be given to municipalities that express interest by August 16, 2024
Helpful Links + VEM "Office Hours"
- Municipalities and property owners can find more information by visiting the VEM's Hazard Mitigation website.
- VLCT - Vermont League of Cities & Towns
- Participate in VEM's Open Office Hours about hazard mitigation funding on July 22, July 31, or August 7, 2024.
Monday, July 22 VEM "Office Hours" (2-3 pm)
Link: https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_NTViNDIxYWQtNzc4Yy00NmIxLWJlMGMtN2I1ODE1NjVhZmM2%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%2220b4933b-baad-433c-9c02-70edcc7559c6%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%22848af882-91dc-475e-984b-7bed0512d2f1%22%7d
The State Absorbs the Grant Burden
The State of Vermont Emergency Management (VEM) is a sub-applicant in this grant program and will provide administrative support to municipalities. Small communities affected by flooding should not be intimidated by this program. There is support out there. Check out this VLCT article for a helpful summary. If you have other questions, please reach out to VEM's Stephanie Smith . You can also reach out directly to [email protected].
We look forward to seeing you at one of the VEM Open Office sessions!
You've got this!
Northeastern Vermont Development Association www.nvda.net
NVDA is the regional planning and development organization serving
Caledonia, Essex and Orleans Counties - An equal opportunity lender, provider and employer.
Northeastern Vermont Development Association | PO Box 630 36 Eastern Ave. Suite 1 | St. Johnsbury, VT 05819 US