FEMA names new director of Hermits Peak Calf Canyon Claims Office [Video]

LAS VEGAS, N.M. (KRQE) – FEMA selected a new director to lead operations at the Hermits Peak Calf Canyon Claims Office in New Mexico and the Stafford Act wildfire disaster recovery operations based in Santa Fe. Jay Mitchell will be tasked with making sure those who were impacted by the fire have their claims approved and receive payment from the federal government.

Mitchell is a former director of the New Mexico Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management. According to FEMA, he brings more than 30 years of military and civilian experience, where he has overseen teams in support of emergency management operations.

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It has been just over two years since the largest wildfire in New Mexico’s recorded history started in the northeastern part of the state. Earlier this month, FEMA officials said around 63% of claims they receivedhad been approved for payment. Despite that, several lawsuits have been filed against FEMA suggesting the claims process is …