City of Rock Valley Receives $3.49 Million in FEMA Reimbursement Approvals

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 24, 2026

The City of Rock Valley has been notified that five FEMA reimbursement grant applications have been approved, totaling $3,495,000. The approvals were signed last week by Kristi Noem, Secretary of the United States Department of Homeland Security.

These funds are reimbursements for disaster-related expenses the City has already paid. The City previously expended $4,660,000 in eligible recovery and response costs, and FEMA’s approval reimburses 75% of those completed expenditures.

In addition to FEMA’s $3,495,000 reimbursement, the State of Iowa will provide $466,000, representing 10% of the total eligible costs. The City of Rock Valley remains responsible for the remaining 15%. These reimbursements apply to projects and costs that have already been incurred, including replacement of vehicles and equipment, repairs to 300th Street, emergency protective measures, repairs and enhancements at the Rivers Bend Campground and leasing of temporary facilities for the Public Library and City Shop.

City officials stress that these reimbursements restore funds already spent from City reserves and local bank loans in order to respond quickly and maintain essential services following the disaster. “The City made the decision to move forward with critical repairs and replacements immediately to protect public safety and restore services,” said City Administrator. “This reimbursement ensures that local taxpayers are not left carrying the full financial burden of costs that have already been paid.”

Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (Home Buyout) Update
The City is also continuing to advance its Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) home buyout application. According to the City’s understanding, Federal Emergency Management Agency Region 7 in Kansas City is completing the final environmental and historical review on 28 homes that were transitioned from the Swift Current Program into the HMGP application. Because these properties previously underwent environmental and historical review under the Swift Current program, the City is hopeful the final review will proceed efficiently.

After the regional review is completed, the application will move into the Large Project Notice to Congress for a 30-day review period. Following that step, the application will advance to Secretary Noem for final approval and obligation of funds. The City remains focused on securing approval so that long-term recovery and mitigation efforts can continue. Further updates will be provided as additional information becomes available. For more information, please contact City Hall at (712) 476-5707 or visit www.cityofrockvalley.com.