State approves disaster housing program for Newton

By By Lynette Wilson / staff writer
Jan. 25, 2003
Newton County homeowners whose property suffered damage as a result of the Dec. 19 tornado may qualify for three months of state-funded rental assistance.
The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency announced Friday that the state's Disaster Housing Program is available to citizens whose primary residence suffered severe damage as the 157 mile per hour twister tore through sections of Newton.
Homeowners may use the money for rent or to make home repairs, but not to replace personal property. Renters who qualify are eligible for one month's rent.
Gary Galloway, director of Newton County Emergency Management and 911, said he appreciates the program, but that it is not enough.
Galloway said the state's program is a consolation and that if federal recovery funds had been granted, it wouldn't have been necessary.
In a letter dated Jan. 17, Gov. Ronnie Musgrove appealed the federal government's denial of disaster relief funds to Newton. The original request was denied because preliminary damage assessments did not meet the minimum threshold.
Musgrove's appeal takes into consideration only the city of Newton, where most of the damage occurred, and which meets the per capita requirement.
The Disaster Housing Program is funded by the Mississippi Legislature and the money does not have to be repaid. The deadline for filing an application is Feb. 24. For more information, call (800) 434-4243.