SC New York News

Senator O'Mara offers his weekly perspective on many of the key challenges and issues facing the Legislature, as well as on legislative actions, local initiatives, state programs and policies. This week, "We are all in it together during times of crisis."

"These are the times and the crises when communities across the Southern Tier and Finger Lakes regions always have -- and always will -- show what we're made of," said Senator O'Mara.

Throughout his years growing up in the area and representing it in the State Legislature, O'Mara has witnessed numerous devastating storms and flooding events. Recently, Hurricane Debby caused significant damage with heavy rains and flash flooding, particularly affecting Steuben, Allegany, Schuyler, Tioga, and Yates counties within his legislative district.

In response to these events, federal, state, and local representatives are assessing the damage and coordinating recovery efforts. O'Mara emphasized the importance of a collective response from various agencies, organizations, and individuals.

"I was grateful to recently join Governor Hochul, Congressman Langworthy, Assemblymen Giglio and Palmesano, former Congressman Sempolinski, and many other county and town leaders to tour area communities," he stated. "We hoped to try to do our best to let them know that help is and will be on the way."

Governor Hochul's visit provided encouragement. She assured residents that state teams would assist with insurance claims. "It's really important for homeowners and businesses to keep track of all their expenses," she said.

The governor also announced an emergency repair program for homeowners in several impacted counties. These grants could provide up to $50,000 for storm-related expenses not covered by insurance or other disaster relief.

O'Mara welcomed this commitment but noted initial concerns about income limitations for state assistance. Public outcry led to an increase in qualifying income from $58,500 to $157,800. He questioned why any income qualifier was included since previous state disaster assistance programs had none.

"We deserve better," O'Mara remarked. He criticized spending on programs supporting illegal immigrants while advocating for more encompassing aid for affected families.

O'Mara continues to push for farm aid, small business support, and enhanced streambank hardening measures. He called for greater leeway for localities in managing streams to prevent future flooding.

"The resilience of these communities has been amazing," he concluded. "Collectively we are a strong community."

Governor Hochul's presence reassured residents of ongoing state support: "It's important for everyone to hear directly from her that the state intends to be there."

O'Mara reiterated that community solidarity remains vital: "It is a great community and we're all in it together."