⁄Disaster Recovery Information - Hurricane Ida

Disaster Recovery Information - Hurricane Ida

Page Contents:

  • Official Disaster Event Information
  • Upper Dublin Township Contact Information
  • Upper Dublin Township Code Enforcement & Storm Permit Information
  • Debris Removal & Yard Waste Collection
  • Hurricane Ida Survivor Resources
  • Tree Planting & Landscaping
  • FEMA Individual Disaster Assistance Programs & Appeals
  • Donations
  • Hurricane Ida News Archive

Official Disaster Event Information

FEMA Disaster Declaration

NOAA Storm Event Detail

Upper Dublin Township Contact Information

  • Due to tornado damage sustained at the municipal complex on Loch Alsh Avenue, residents can now reach the Township at 215-643-1600 or visit the temporary offices at 370 Commerce Drive in Fort Washington.
  • Storm-affected residents may email the UDT Hurricane Ida Recovery Resources Coordinator at storm@upperdublin.net with any questions, concerns or storm-related information.
  • The Upper Dublin Township Police Department has temporarily moved to the UD Public Library building at 520 Virginia Drive.
    • If you have a police-related non-emergency question, please call the non-emergency line at 215-646-2101.
    • If you are experiencing an emergency, call 9-1-1 immediately.
  • Public Meetings - All public meetings will be held at 520 Virginia Drive.
  • Check on your neighbors – If you know of anyone in particular need (i.e., neighbors living in their homes without power, elderly residents in need of assistance, those with special financial issues, etc.), please contact the Township at 215-643-1600. We will coordinate a wellness check.

Upper Dublin Township Code Enforcement & Storm Permit Information

  • Please visit the Township Building at 370 Commerce Drive for all permit needs.
    The application process for storm-related replace-in-kind permits (not alterations) will be expedited and some permits may be issued the same day.  Residents/contractors can make an appointment to meet with code officials by calling 215 416-3600.  Appointments should be made at least 24 hours in advance.  It is understood that many residents are in negotiations with their insurance companies regarding settlements and may have building plans that require consultation and/or quick review.  Code officials will make every effort to assist residents through this process.
  • Code Enforcement Permit Procedures and Instructions
    For full Code Enforcement information, visit Code Enforcement | Upper Dublin Township

    • Permit applications are available in the lobby of the Township Building at 370 Commerce Drive. “Fillable” applications are available online at DOCUMENTS & FORMS | Upper Dublin Township  (Click Code Enforcement >> **Permit Applications and Forms >> Scroll to applicable form).
    • Numerous “Guides” for permit application submittals are available in the lobby of the Township Building at 370 Commerce Drive. Guides are available online at DOCUMENTS & FORMS | Upper Dublin Township  (Click Code Enforcement >> **Permit Submission Guides and Lists >> Scroll to applicable guide).
    • Permit applications* can be dropped off in the “Drop Box” located in the lobby or submitted via email to mskarkey@upperdublin.net.
      • *NOTE: INCOMPLETE or ILLEGIBLE permit application will delay the review of the application. ALL email addresses must be completed for the property owner, contractors, etc.  NO APPLICATIONS will be accepted without email addresses.
    • Permit fees can be submitted with the application(s) via check or paid with a credit card (Visa, MasterCard, Discover) over the phone at 215-643-1600.
    • It takes approximately 15 business days for residential and 30 business days for commercial plan review.
    • A pre-demo inspection must be scheduled and performed prior to issuance of the demo permit, and a final demo inspection must be scheduled and performed prior to issuance of the permits for construction
    • No work may commence until the permit application has been reviewed, approved, and issued. Permits will be issued via email along with a note in regard to COVID-19 procedures.
    • If any work is started or performed prior to permit issuance, Late Fees will be charged per Township Ordinance.
  • Code Enforcement References related to Hurricane Ida
  • Upper Dublin Township Lists for Storm-Related Rebuilding Needs

Debris Removal & Yard Waste Collection 

  • Residential debris collection related to the September 1st tornado and hurricane is now complete. The drop-off site located behind the damaged Township Building (801 Loch Alsh Avenue) is closed.  Questions?  Call 215 643-1600 ext. 3221 or rlohoefer@upperdublin.net
  • Regular Yard Waste Collection is ongoing. For specific questions, please call the Public Works Department at 215-643-1600 ext. 3810 or click here:  UDT Yard Waste
  • Yard Waste may be taken to the Camphill Road Compost Site Facility at 1128 Camphill Road during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 7:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Site is closed for lunch 11:30 a.m. – 12:45 p.m.)  Please call 215-643-1600 to verify site is open before arriving.  Standard yard waste only.  No trees, large limbs, or wood chips.  Proof of Residency will be required to drop off, please bring your ID.  No landscapers, contractors, or clean-up companies.  For more information, click here:  UDT Compost Site Facilities
  • For additional information regarding yard waste collection, trash, recycling, and other Public Works details, click here: UDT Public Works

Hurricane Ida Survivor Resources

  • 02/17/23 ANNOUNCEMENT – Hurricane Ida Relief Fund (HIRF)

Upper Dublin Township is pleased to announce the newly-created Hurricane Ida Relief Fund (HIRF), financed by a $1.5 million grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development. This grant was secured by State Senators Maria Collett and Vincent Hughes to ease the financial strain experienced by property owners and residents impacted by the tornado and flooding of Hurricane Ida. Upper Dublin shares this grant with Horsham Township. March 31, 2023, is the deadline for Round 1 applications for HIRF consideration. Property owners and residents with eligible storm-related expenses are strongly encouraged to submit an application as soon as possible. For full program information, eligibility guidelines, and application materials, please visit www.upperdublin.net/hirf. Paper application materials are available at the Township Offices at 370 Commerce Drive. If you have any questions, please contact hirf@upperdublin.net or call 215-643-1600 ext. 3138.

  • Upper Dublin Township Hurricane Ida Recovery Resource Coordinator (“HIRRC”)

Upper Dublin residents that have been affected by the tornado and flooding associated with Hurricane Ida are encouraged to reach out the the HIRRC at storm@upperdublin.net or by telephone at 215-643-1600 ext. 3378 to discuss their disaster-related needs.  The HIRRC may coordinate with UDT personnel or provide referrals to community resources suited to support storm survivors’ needs.

  • Hurricane Ida Disaster Case Management Program

Montgomery County residents still experiencing unmet needs related to Hurricane Ida can contact the Disaster Case Management Program at 833-461-8IDA (8432).  This is a free service that partners an individual or household with a trained Disaster Case Manager (DCM), who will perform a comprehensive assessment of your needs and help you to access eligible resources.  A DCM will advocate on your behalf with FEMA, insurance companies, the Small Business Administration (SBA), and other disaster-related services. Spanish-speaking Disaster Case Managers are available.

Program Flyer:  English | Spanish

Note: As part of the initial intake, residents will be asked to provide information on any Ida-related assistance they may have previously received from Montgomery County or non-profit, social service, or disaster assistance agencies.  Failure to provide this information could result in a duplication of benefits and may affect eligibility for any future assistance.

  • Insurance Questions & Issues with Insurance Companies
    Do you have questions related to your insurance policy? Have you had an issue while filing a claim with your insurance company?  If so, you may contact the Pennsylvania Insurance Department's Consumer Service Bureau for assistance.  They can be contacted online or via phone at 1-877-881-6388.  The form can also be downloaded and submitted to Rep. Todd Stephens at toneill@pahousegop.com
  • Tax Relief for Catastrophic Property Loss
    The Montgomery County Board of Assessment Appeals offers relief for anyone who has experienced a catastrophic loss to their property. The reduction to the assessment is based on the amount of damage sustained.  Relief is offered for damage from Hurricane Ida, as well as for ANY other catastrophic loss (e.g., fire, flood, tornado, hurricane, etc.).  If you believe that your property has suffered significant damage, please contact the Board of Assessment Appeals at 610-278-3761 and ask to speak to the assessor for your area.  The assessor will visit your property and make a determination if it warrants a reduction in tax burden due to catastrophic loss.
  • Replacement of Deeds
    The Montgomery County Recorder of Deeds office will provide, free of charge, a certified copy of deeds lost or destroyed by Hurricane Ida. The Recorder of Deeds office is open to the public Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.  If you have questions, please call 610-278-3289 or visit montcopa.org/rod.

  • Legal Aid of Southeastern PA – Hurricane Ida Helpline
    A toll-free legal aid helpline, operated by Legal Aid of Southeastern PA, is available for survivors of Hurricane Ida in Pennsylvania. Low-income survivors facing legal issues may call 877-429-5994. The helpline will be staffed Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., but messages can be left 24/7.  Callers should identify that they are seeking storm-related legal assistance, name the county in which they are located, and describe their legal problems. Survivors who qualify for assistance will be matched with Pennsylvania lawyers who have volunteered to provide free legal help.  Examples of legal assistance related to Hurricane Ida may include:

    • Foreclosures
    • Landlord/Tenant issues
    • Flood insurance disputes
    • FEMA Appeals
    • Bankruptcies
    • Civil and disability rights cases
  • Upper Dublin Public Library
    • Reading Materials and Reference Books - Reading materials for adults and children regarding rebuilding, recovery, trauma, and stress management are available from the Upper Dublin Public Library. For a list of materials, please refer to the UDPL Tornado Recovery Resource List.
    • Recorded Community Programs – Three “Healing from the Tornado” programs are available for survivors to view (Parenting & Child Wellness, Adult Resilience & Recovery, and Community Healing for Helpers) here: UDPL Previously Recorded Programs.  Scroll as needed to the program you would like view.
    • Hurricane Ida & Tornado Survivors Support Group – A conversational and social peer-led support group for storm survivors, meeting monthly. For latest events, check the UDPL Events Calendar
  • Mental Health Support
    Montgomery County Mobile Crisis provides support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 1-855-634-HOPE (4673). This service is available to anyone in Montgomery County, including children, teens, adults, and families.
  • Community Resources & Programs Directory
    Depending on need and circumstances, additional resources may be available to you. Please refer to the UDCEF Community Resources & Programs Directory to learn more.  Please reach out to the organization(s) directly.

Tree Planting & Landscaping

  • In coordination with LandStudies, Inc., Upper Dublin Township has developed a reforestation plan for Tannerie Run West (Park), which includes planting of approximately 1,659 plants.  This 8.5 acre open space property, located along Joel Drive between Susquehanna Road and Meetinghouse Road, was devastated by the September 1st The plan can be found here.
  • On December 14, 2021, the Commissioners of Upper Dublin Township adopted a Resolution Establishing the Tree Planting and Care Fund. Click this link to learn about the Tree Planting and Care Fund.
  • The Upper Dublin Shade Tree Commission sponsors an Adopt-A-Tree event each year in the spring and fall. Trees may be reserved through the UD Parks & Recreation website.  Stay tuned to official Upper Dublin Township communications for additional information.  Questions and inquiries may be addressed to shadetreecommission@upperdublin.net.
  • The Upper Dublin Tree Tenders is a Pennsylvania Horticultural Society group of volunteers that coordinate and assist with replanting trees on private property throughout the Township. For updated information on opportunities to volunteer or request assistance, please contact udtreetenders@gmail.com or visit Upper Dublin Tree Tenders on Facebook.
  • As homeowners continue to re-plant, please read this information from the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources on landscaping with native plants.

FEMA Disaster Assistance Programs

On September 10th, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to supplement commonwealth and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by Hurricane Ida from August 31 to September 5, 2021.  Financial assistance was made available for affected individuals.  Federal assistance programs included but were not limited to rental assistance, repair or replacement of housing to a safe, sanitary, and functional standard (not pre-disaster condition), funds for other needs (e.g., vehicles, clothing, appliances, etc.), and low-interest loans.

  • FEMA Disaster Assistance Sequence of Delivery Fact Sheet
  • Individual Assistance
    The FEMA Individual Assistance and SBA Physical Disaster Loan application period has ended as of January 10, 2022, and the late registration period ended on March 10, 2022. Individuals with questions are encouraged to contact FEMA directly at 800-621-3362.

  • Individual Assistance Appeals
    Determined ineligible for FEMA disaster assistance? You can appeal the decision within 60 days, although appeals may be considered beyond that time on a case-by-case basis.  Click here to learn more.  If you require assistance with a FEMA appeal, please contact the Hurricane Ida Disaster Case Management Program for Southeastern Pennsylvania at 833-461-8IDA (8432).  A trained Disaster Case Manager will provide a comprehensive assessment of your needs and is able to assist with FEMA appeals.
  • S. Small Business Administration (“SBA”) Physical Disaster Loans
    The application deadlines for SBA Disaster Assistance have passed. Questions?  Call 1-800-659-2955 (1-800-877-8339 for deaf/hard of hearing) between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m., seven days a week, or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov.
  • Continued Rental Assistance
    Survivors of Hurricane Ida who live in Montgomery County or other designated counties in Pennsylvania and received initial rental assistance from FEMA may be eligible for continued rental assistance. Survivors applying for continued assistance must complete an Application for Continued Temporary Housing Assistance.  To request this form, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.  FEMA will evaluate the request to determine if the applicant is eligible.  For additional information, click here:  FEMA Continued Rental Assistance
  • FEMA Public* Assistance
    The Public Assistance application period has ended, effective December 7, 2021. Agencies with questions may contact PEMA Specialist Jonathan Skripka at jskripka@pa.gov.

    • For more information on the Public Assistance program, visit https://www.fema.gov/assistance/public/program-overview.
    • *NOTE: the term "Public" here refers to public agencies (i.e., governments), not members of the public.  Individuals and households are eligible to apply for aid through the Individual Assistance program (see details above).

Donations

  • Upper Dublin Citizen Emergency Fund (A 501(c)(3) charitable, non-profit organization entirely funded by private donations.)
    Established in 2018, the Upper Dublin Citizen Emergency Fund (CEF) was created to provide relief to distressed persons in Upper Dublin Township facing a critical, immediate need for food, shelter, medical care or clothing for their health and well-being. Following the events of Hurricane Ida on September 1, 2021, the UDCEF Board of Directors instituted a “Natural Disaster Inclusion” stating that expenses related to natural disasters, such as the flooding and tornadoes associated with Hurricane Ida, will be considered in the period immediately following an event, concluding at a future time to be determined.  To make a donation to the UDCEF in support of Upper Dublin residents in need, please find the option that works best for you:

    • Donate Online with UDCEF PayPal Giving Fund
    • Donate by check (made payable to Upper Dublin Citizen Emergency Fund), and mail to Upper Dublin Township, c/o Jonathan Bleemer, 370 Commerce Drive, Fort Washington, PA 19034.
  • The Montco Emergency Disaster Relief Fund (Administered by The Montgomery County Foundation, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit public charity)
    The Montgomery County Commissioners have announced the creation of the Montco Emergency Disaster Relief Fund, hosted by the Montgomery County Foundation, Inc. All donations to this fund will support non-profit agencies serving Montgomery County individuals and families impacted by the remnants of Hurricane Ida.  Funds can be used to support housing, food, gasoline, and household needs such as cleaning products, hygiene products, bedding, towels, and clothing.  Donations are tax-deductible as allowable by law.  Contributors can donate to the Montco Emergency Disaster Relief Fund through the following ways:

    • Donate online
    • Text GIVE or DONATE to (610) 600-1764
    • Donate by check (made payable to The Montco Emergency Disaster Relief Fund), and mail to The Montgomery County Foundation, Inc., 4 Sentry Parkway East, Suite 302, Blue Bell, PA 19422

Preparedness Planning & Emergency Links

Hurricane Ida News & Information Archive

Montgomery County Hurricane Ida Information
Hurricane Ida | Montgomery County, PA - Official Website (montcopa.org)

Pop-Up Community Meeting - Friday, 9/10/2021
Friday, September 10th at 4:00pm - Loch Alsh Avenue at the flag pole in front of UDHS.
Township and School District representatives gave updates.  There was a Q&A.

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Pennsylvania Disaster Declaration – Friday, 9/1/2021
Read the full release here:  https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2021/09/10/president-joseph-r-biden-jr-approves-pennsylvania-disaster-declaration/

Neighborhood Pop-Up Meetings - Saturday, 9/4/2021
Three pop-up neighborhood meetings (Fort Washington, Stuart Creek & Joel Drive) occurred on Saturday (9/4/2021) with Township and PECO representatives.  Updated information was shared and there was a Q&A with residents.

Water Quality – Saturday, 9/4/2021
The Township spoke with water suppliers on Saturday, 9/4/2021.  All three (AQUA, Ambler Borough, & North Wales Water Authority) confirmed that there are NO ISSUES WITH WATER QUALITY.

 

Report an Issue

Would you like to report an issue?

Call Upper Dublin Township,

at (215) 643-1600 ext. 0

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