Worthen Warns Entities On Debris Contractors

State Rep. Trebor Worthen is cautioning Oklahoma counties and municipalities affected by recent ice storms to make sure any contracts for debris removal are in line with federal guidelines. Otherwise, they may not qualify for federal funds to help pay for the cleanup.

“In the coming days and weeks, there will be cities and counties all across the state that have to contract with private firms to clean up all the limbs and other debris from these ice storms,” said Worthen, R-Oklahoma City. “By keeping the FEMA guidelines in mind, city and county officials will be able to recoup a lot of the cleanup costs after this is all over.”

When selecting a firm for debris removal following a natural disaster, a multitude of factors should be considered, Worthen said. If the wrong contractor is selected and FEMA funds are de-obligated due to their action or inaction, the financial impact on the municipality can be devastating.

Following natural disasters, Worthen said, many firms who otherwise are not in the debris removal business determine that it is now their primary focus. It is important to select a contractor that has experience working with FEMA, as well as a lengthy track record of completing debris removal projects, he added.

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