Congresswoman requests aid for Moodna Creek

Editor's note: U.S. Rep. Nan Hayworth sent the following letter, dated Dec. 13, to Col. John R. Boulé II, commander of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, New York District. Dear Colonel Boulé: First, thank you for your continued service in the New York District and in particular for your efforts following Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee. Your presence at our meetings with state and local officials was very much appreciated as we work toward long-term recovery and flood prevention. This is a top priority for me and my team in District 19. With regard to the damage at Moodna Creek, I would like to bring to your attention another program that potentially can expedite recovery. Last month I met with Assistant Secretary of the Army Jo-Ellen Darcy and we discussed the options available to provide the necessary assistance at Moodna Creek. Due to the current constraints on Section 14 and Section 205 of the Continuing Authorities Program, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is unable to begin a new project in the Moodna Creek Watershed. I encouraged Ms. Darcy to consider including the Moodna Watershed in the next year’s budget request, and Ms. Darcy mentioned the Planning Assistance to States program in Section 206 of the Flood Control Act of 1960. I would appreciate your clarifying whether funding pursuant to Section 206 may possibly finance studies and the initiation of essential repairs at Moodna Creek. Thank you again, and I look forward to your response. Please feel free to contact my office at your convenience if we can be of further assistance in the meantime. Sincerely, Nan Hayworth Member of Congress