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Community Corner

Meeting Set for Portland Residents who Sustained Damage from July 8 Storm

Officials from SBA and Rep. Larson's office to attend.

First Selectwoman Susan Bransfield has scheduled an informational session with federal officials at Portland Library at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 7.

The meeting will allow residents who had damage to homes or businesses as a result of the July 8 rain storm to speak directly with officials representing the Small Business Administration and the office of 1st District Congressman John Larson.  

Many homeowners reported extensive damage to their properties when rushing water carved through yards or walled up behind homes before flooding basements. The town says 5.5 inches of rain fell in less than two hours on July 8.

Find out what's happening in East Hampton-Portlandwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Bransfield said she's been making calls to Larson's office, the SBA, the Federal Emergency Management Agency and state agencies.

FEMA has ruled out any money for the storm, but Bransfield said there may be loans possible from the SBA.

Find out what's happening in East Hampton-Portlandwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Some homeowners have been struggling with decisions to take out loans, dipping into savings, doing some of the work themselves or a combination. 

One resident reports the repairs are going slower than expected and that it's been a very difficult time. 

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