As follow-up to a story Nov. 26, 2012 in which Staten Island (NY) Borough President James Molinaro said he would not accept “colonies of trailers” to house those displaced by Hurricane Sandy, a SRO crowd in a high school gym of survivors now in their fifth week of homelessness voiced a different opinion. As Staten Island Live tells MHProNews, Molinaro initially told U.S. Dept. of Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano “no” to FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) homes, but at the mention of FEMA homes to the 1,000 assembled, a loud cheer went out. Dozens raised their hands when asked if they would live in one. While several spoke of wanting to have a home, if only temporary, by Christmas, the question of where the housing might be sited looms in one of the higher density cities in the nation. Nearby Miller Field was mentioned, but it is in a flood plane. With no other available options, state and local officials are reconsidering FEMA’s offer. In another report, FEMA is investigating bringing in modular homes stacked 6-10 high on barges.

(Photo credit: Bill Lyons/silive—Staten Island Borough President James Molinaro speaking to impatient survivors.)