City asking residents in a FEMA housing unit to fill out survey on housing needs Posted on 7/24/2012
Starting this week, Minot residents staying in FEMA temporary housing units (THUs) will have a chance to give the City essential information related to their long-term housing needs. A 20-question survey, put together by the City of Minot, is being handed out over the next couple of days to the more than 1,200 individuals/families residing in a THU.
"The City recognizes there is a need to have solid, up-to-date information on what situation our residents still displaced by the flood are currently experiencing," said Cindy Hemphill, finance director for the City of Minot. "With this information directly from our residents, the City feels we can have the most accurate information related to where we are today, and that will serve us best in knowing what needs remain in our continual flood recovery. Having good information will allow us to make good decisions."
Representatives from FEMA have agreed to drop off the survey, on the City's behalf, this week and then plan on picking it up starting August 1. Information from the survey will be compiled in August and become part of the City of Minot's Unmet Needs Assessment. With this information the City can also get a more accurate picture of what "unmet needs" remain in the valley. This information could prove critical in relating the City's current situation to state and federal partners and gaining their financial support toward flood recovery.
The two-page survey has separate sections for homeowners and renters as the needs of these groups are distinct. Questions throughout the survey include items such as the number of people in your household, what you plan to do with your flood-damaged home and how much rent can you afford to pay.
Residents who have concerns about the validity of this survey or questions are encouraged to call the Minot Disaster Recovery Services Office at 837-5813. Residents also can drop off their survey at City Hall or the Disaster Recovery office inside Arrowhead Mall in southwest Minot, suite 27.
