Once the homes are completed, California Human Development will inspect the homes for safety and security, followed by an inspection by FEMA. California Governor Jerry Brown has waived certain fees and detailed plans for external structures in order to expedite the process, but without jeopardizing any safety or security features.
Each MH is fully furnished save a washer and dryer—for which hook-ups are available—including telephone and cable connections. Rent and all utilities are being covered by FEMA for up to 18 months, with the possibility for a six-month extension. The number of bedrooms in each MH varies, but each has a double bed, a place to store clothes and a weather radio. The residents will also have access to the swimming pool in the summertime, and all the other amenities of the community.
Co-owner and administrator of Lake Village Dena Barron stated, “They’re going to be treated like any other resident,” she said, adding that the current residents of LVE were welcoming of them. “We’ve developed a great relationship with our residents; we are always rallying for them.”
FEMA Public Information Officer Steven Solomon said that 40 more home sites have been leased at Clearlake Resort. The utility connections have been installed but the homes have yet to arrive. FEMA is also considering using Grange Road in Hidden Valley Lake which could host 30 additional homes, but approval has not been given yet.
To date, FEMA has approved $3.4 million in housing assistance for some 600 homeowners connected to the fires. The federal government has also approved aid for over 600 renters, $3 million in individual assistance, and grants of $32,900 each for 62 others.
Solomon stated: “FEMA continues to do everything it can to help the state to ensure that Valley Fire survivors are lodged as the weather gets colder. We’ll be here as long we’re needed.” ##
(Photo credit: record-bee/Jason Morash–employees of Baxter Mobile Home Transport build a wheelchair ramp for one of the FEMA homes.)
