U.S. Senator Schumer Visits Flood Damaged Area

Senator Schumer toured the flood damage with community members. They say they are glad to see the federal government take action.

People gathered on Ellmore Drive to voice their concerns today as parts of Central New York were hit hard by the recent heavy flooding. It caused some people to lose thousands of dollars in personal items.

Whitesboro resident, Jason Small lives by the Sauquoit Creek and he says cleaning up is not easy.

"You got to get rid of all the mold and bleach. I just got her back today... I haven't seen my kids in four days... It's very frustrating."

But, people in the community say they are happy to see a federal representative push for assistance.

"I thank him for coming because we never had a U.S. Senator come down to come and take a look at the creek."

Senator Schumer walked down Sauquoit Street and got a first-hand look at the flood damage.

He took a look inside of homes and spoke with the affected residents. He says there are two options of how the federal government can help.

The first option is to call the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to come in and inspect the creek to get it fixed up.

But, Senator Schumer says this will be a long process.

The second option is to apply for a FEMA program called flood mitigation, allowing areas to receive assistance if it has been repeatedly subjected to flooding.

Mr. Schumer says the second option will be a quicker process. 

"They will help pay for a way to fix up the creek, so it doesn't flood anymore. That's what we should have and i will push for that," said Senator Schumer.

Now, Senator Schumer says he needs the Department of Environmental Conservation's approval as well as the local towns to agree.