FR 2021-03316

The document in question is an official notice issued by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), a part of the Department of Homeland Security. This notice announces an amendment to a previous disaster declaration for the State of New Hampshire. Initially declared on April 3, 2020, this disaster declaration relates to various forms of federal assistance made available to support disaster recovery efforts. The document highlights a change in the leadership role of Federal Coordinating Officer—Paul F. Ford replaces W. Russell Webster effective January 14, 2021.

General Summary

The notice primarily serves as an administrative update concerning a leadership change in disaster response operations. FEMA has reassigned the Federal Coordinating Officer role from W. Russell Webster to Paul F. Ford. It also lists several federal assistance programs, each identified by specific Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) numbers, which are available for those affected by the disaster. These programs encompass a wide range of needs, such as community disaster loans, crisis counseling, unemployment assistance and more, each aimed at mitigating the impact of the disaster on residents of New Hampshire.

Significant Issues and Concerns

Several potential issues arise from this document. Firstly, while the notice confirms the appointment of a new Federal Coordinating Officer, it lacks detailed explanation or context for why this change is necessary or beneficial. Such omission can leave room for uncertainty or speculation about the rationale behind this administrative decision.

Additionally, while the document lists various assistance programs available through specific CFDA numbers, it fails to specify the amount of funding allocated to each. This lack of financial detail makes it challenging for stakeholders, including the public and oversight bodies, to assess whether the allocations are fair, transparent, and well-aligned with the disaster's actual needs.

Broad Impact on the Public

For the general public, this document reiterates the federal government's continued commitment to supporting New Hampshire in its disaster recovery efforts. The change in the Federal Coordinating Officer could affect how these efforts are coordinated, but without specific details, it is unclear how such an impact may unfold. However, the assurance of available programs offers some comfort and support to those directly affected by the disaster.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

The specific stakeholders, including those directly affected by the disaster and local authorities responsible for coordinating recovery efforts, may see a more immediate impact from this notice. The reassignment of the Federal Coordinating Officer may influence the leadership dynamics, potentially affecting the efficacy and focus of disaster response strategies. Transparency about the leadership changes and financial allocations could help build trust and enhance cooperation between federal agencies and local entities.

In summary, while the notice fulfills its role as an official update on an administrative change within disaster operations, its lack of contextual detail limits public comprehension and transparency concerning its implications. Moreover, stakeholders, particularly at the local level, may need to seek additional information to fully understand how these changes will influence ongoing and future recovery efforts.