Conrad Secures Commitment from FEMA to Expand Size of Temporary Housing to Lower Heating Expenses

Senator Also Applauds State Ruling That Clears Way for Additional Tradesmen to Help with Flood Recovery

Washington, DC – November 2, 2011 – (RealEstateRama) — Senator Kent Conrad secured a commitment from Federal Emergency Management Agency officials today to build additions onto the entry ways of the temporary housing units in an effort to keep houses warmer as winter approaches.

“We are all aware that a harsh North Dakota winter is fast approaching,” Senator Conrad said. “I appreciate the commitment FEMA made today to improving the quality of these temporary units, and by extension, improving the quality of life many families will experience this winter.”

The additions, which are essentially extensions of the main entryway, will further insulate family living space from the winter chill while helping to constrain home heating expenses.

Senator Conrad noted some concerns about the insulation and construction quality of the trailers at a public meeting in Minot last week after leading an inspection of temporary housing units with city, state and FEMA officials. FEMA has assured Senator Conrad that construction of these additions will in no way interfere with efforts to ensure enough temporary housing units are in place to meet the needs of displaced families and individuals.

Those concerns were further alleviated after the Air Force and North Dakota state officials found a solution to bring skilled tradesmen from around the country to Minot to assist in flood recovery efforts.

Last week, Senator Conrad spoke with General Norton Schwartz, Air Force Chief of Staff, about the shortage of tradesmen in Minot as well as other flood relief issues impacting airmen and residents of Minot. The General told Senator Conrad that skilled Air Force tradesmen were ready to help with flood recovery efforts, but were unable to help because they did not have proper state certification.

While in Minot last week inspecting flood recovery efforts, Senator Conrad also brought the certification issue to the attention of Maj. Gen. Murray Sagsveen, state flood coordinator. Senator Conrad said that the state electrical board has raised the issue of state certification of the Air Force tradesmen.

Gen. Sagsveen said that he would work with Governor Dalrymple to “make sure that when they arrive, that we have the red carpet out for them and not speed bumps.”

Since that time, Gen. Sagsveen helped broker a compromise allowing the base to provide housing for civilian electricians who volunteer to come to Minot and help. These electricians may then work with and through local contractors to begin work.

“I applaud Air Force leadership, Governor Dalrymple and Gen. Sagsveen for acting so quickly on this important issue,” Senator Conard said. “There is a huge shortage of tradesmen in the Minot community right now and any little bit that adds to the pool is a big help.”