(Yaphank, NY-November 1, 2012) This evening, Suffolk County Executive participated from the Suffolk Emergency Operations Center in Yaphank on a regional conference call with President Obama to provide a briefing of the local impact of Hurricane Sandy on our region. The call, which was organized by New York Governor Andrew Cuomo also included Nassau County Executive Ed Mangano and New York City Council President Christine Quinn.
“I want to thank President Obama and Governor Cuomo for their leadership and for providing Suffolk County with the resources we need,” County Executive Bellone said. “As we move from response to recovery, it is vital that we continue to have strong partners at the federal and state level.”
County Executive Bellone informed President Obama about the continued threat to the South Shore posed by the fact that Fire Island has breached in several spots. Hundreds of thousands of homes are now threatened, which are normally protected by the barrier island. The President talked about the need for all levels of government to come together to find long-term sustainable solutions to protect our shorelines.
President Obama also encouraged Suffolk County residents to register for individual assistance by calling 1-800-621-FEMA or going to www.disasterassistance.gov. By registering with FEMA, affected residents can get assistance for immediate needs. President Obama also encouraged businesses to register through the Small Business Administration.