PORTAGE, Mich. — It’s been nearly a month since FEMA denied federal relief for the tornado that ripped through the city of Portage in May. However, city officials told FOX 17 that they’re not giving up just yet.
“Since May 7, we had a visit from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, FEMA,” said Pat Mcginnis, city manager. “They come through town and look at the damage and try to assess … what the damage is.”
After the mayor, governor and Kalamazoo County issued an emergency declaration to declare a major disaster in Portage, relief was denied.
“The federal government, FEMA, had determined that local, state and nonprofit resources were adequate to cover the need,” McGinnis said, adding they don’t believe that is true. “This is assistance to individuals who have been victimized by this tornado, and they’re survivors. They’re lucky to be alive.”
McGinnis said following the denial, Gov. Gretchen …