Milwaukee gathers information for FEMA appeal

MILWAUKEE (AP) — The city of Milwaukee is trying to gather information to appeal the federal government’s decision not to provide flooding aid to residents.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency is providing assistance for damage to schools and public property, but not for individuals.

Gov. Jim Doyle is appealing that decision. So the city is working with non-profits, community groups and neighborhood associations to distribute surveys to homes to find out if sleeping spaces were damaged as a result of flooding.

Jodie Tabak, spokeswoman for Mayor Tom Barrett, said they plan to be done canvassing by the deadline on Monday.

Flood damage in Milwaukee County is estimated at $37.5 million. Almost 9,600 homes in Milwaukee County were damaged, with about 200 sustaining major damage and five destroyed.