The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) grant, which is administered by the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness (GOHSEP), will reimburse the Sheriff’s Office to rebuild the facility that was flooded with four feet of water for two weeks following Hurricane Katrina. The majority of the facility also burned down shortly after the storm.

Approximately 270 sheriff’s office vehicles—including cars, boats and tractors—are maintained in the building. Since the hurricane, the sheriff’s office has resorted to sending its damaged vehicles offsite for maintenance. However, this facility provides a more cost effective solution toward the upkeep of the vehicle fleet.

Construction is expected to begin this month and should last approximately eight months.

“We’re thrilled to death with what FEMA has done for us,” Chief Deputy William Short said. “They’ve stepped up to the plate for us time and time again. FEMA has gone out of their way to help us.”

More than $3.5 million has been obligated toward replacing the Vehicle Maintenance Building.

When projects are obligated by FEMA through its supplemental Public Assistance grant, the funds are transferred to a Smartlink account. This allows the applicant, in this case the Orleans Parish Criminal Sheriff’s Office, to work with the GOHSEP as quickly as possible to access the reimbursement monies. The state may require additional documentation from the applicant before disbursing the funds. Obligated funds may change over time as the project worksheet is a living grant that is often adjusted as bids come in and scope of work is aligned.   

The Public Assistance program works with state and local officials to fund recovery measures and the rebuilding of government and certain private nonprofit organizations’ buildings, as well as roads, bridges and water and wastewater treatment plants. In order for the process to be successful, federal, state and local partners coordinate to draw up project plans, fund these projects and oversee their completion.

FEMA coordinates the federal government’s role in preparing for, preventing, mitigating the effects of, responding to, and recovering from all domestic disasters, whether natural or man-made, including acts of terror.