Griffith Residents: Steps for Storm Damage Assistance

Griffith residents needing assistance for storm-related damage must contact the state for documentation. Monetary relief is expected to take at least 90 days. A local disaster declaration was passed for the brief June 24 storm, which toppled over 300 trees, 70 utility poles, and left 6,000 residents without power for days.

Power crews worked on North Broad Street in Griffith the day after the storm, continuing the cleanup efforts. The declaration allows Griffith to take action for emergency response, recovery, and seeking reimbursement or assistance as documented in the resolution. Council President Rick Ryfa highlighted the need for residents to contact the state directly to assess the damage in Griffith and possibly qualify for assistance.

Contact options include calling 211, texting INOD to 898211, or using www.in211.org to submit a damage report. Griffith Police Chief Al Tharp informed the council that Lake County Homeland Security’s Deputy Director Paul Petrie started the damage assessment on June 26.

The town must track cleanup efforts meticulously. Petrie emphasized the importance of tracking every minute spent on cleanup operations, including overtime, equipment use, and assistance from other towns like St. John. This detailed tracking is crucial for public assistance. Individual assistance differs by focusing on impact statements.

Ryfa predicted no limit for individual damage. However, the state must determine a threshold for collective damage in Griffith. Elizabeth Woods, Deputy Chief of Staff for Indiana’s Department of Homeland Security, confirmed state-wide emergencies due to severe weather. Governor Mike Braun signed an Emergency Disaster Declaration covering 63 counties, enabling use of the State Disaster Relief Fund for individual assistance.

Residents affected by storms have 90 days to apply for relief funds. Griffith qualifies due to its occurrence within this timeframe. The Indiana Department of Homeland Security reviews applications continuously during the 90-day window. Relief funds will be distributed after the application period completes. IDHS is exploring financial assistance for homeowners, businesses, and communities as recovery teams gauge damage costs.

Griffith Parks Director Rich Powell reported 38 downed trees in parks, notably 30 at the Girls’ Softball Field. Public Works Director Andy Raab noted street buckling issues due to high water and water tables. While progress is being made, Raab estimates a two to three-week timeline for completing town-wide cleanup efforts.

Michelle L. Quinn is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune.