FEMA and non-profit relief
The statement, “I’m from the government and I’m here to help you,” isn’t always a good thing. Some victims of the tornado on February 23 are disappointed and feel let down that FEMA isn’t helping. My heart goes out to those affected by the storm. My property was damaged by the straight line wind years ago, and I had to personally remove the trees blown down from my property with help from friends and relatives, with no insurance or government help. So I know your disappointment and helpless feeling. That brings me to another point. There is a non-profit origination formed in Columbus, to give hope in the community. Their mission is to help those without insurance or the financial ability to make repairs. More about this group will be available later.
Homeowners be aware! There also is another group, according to word on the street, that is trying to buy up storm-damaged properties that have been condemned by the city before the insurance companies completed the adjusting process. A red flag goes up over this process. The reason is these properties are in the area that might be part of the “Greenfield Environment Multi-State Trust” project. In 2017, The Dispatch reported Columbus might get a reported $68 million for environmental action around Kerr-McGee. Now the problem: People are taking advantage of a disaster to make a quick dollar off those that need real help. Buy low from the storm victims, sell high make a large profit. Is this business as usual in the “Friendly City”? Who are the ones involved in this scam? The word is out, that some very prominent businessmen and politicians might be involved. The jury is still out on that, just food for thought. Some more investigation is needed in this. We need more over seeing and more transparency.
God Bless Columbus and America.
Lee Roy Lollar
Columbus
The Dispatch Editorial Board is made up of publisher Peter Imes, columnist Slim Smith, managing editor Zack Plair and senior newsroom staff.
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