Councilman Deutsch, Build It Back Chief, Tour Neighborhood To Assess Lingering Issues

The following is a press release from the offices of Councilman Chaim Deutsch:

New York City Council Member Chaim Deutsch (D-Brooklyn) was recently joined by Build it Back Director Amy Peterson touring several properties that were damaged by Hurricane Sandy. During the visits, Council Member Deutsch and Director Peterson met with homeowners in Sheepshead Bay and Manhattan Beach, visiting families still waiting for financial relief.

“When I brought Build It Back officials to view these homes, there was an instinctive reaction — they saw firsthand how frustrated people had become waiting for reimbursements.” Deutsch said. “My thanks to Director Peterson for joining me in reaching out to my constituents, and giving the people affected by Hurricane Sandy the attention they deserve.”

Last month, Council Member Deutsch’s office was contacted by Bill Iannotti, a constituent who spent his life savings repairing his home and had been seeking reimbursements through Build it Back for over a year. Council Member Deutsch, shortly after visiting his home with Director Peterson, was notified that the Iannotti family should expect to be reimbursed soon.

“I know the Build It Back Program was started with good intentions, but the process of getting reimbursed is far too slow and I began to give up hope. Fortunately, Councilman Deutsch stepped in and helped me recover what Sandy took away.” said Mr. Iannotti. “I am grateful to the Councilman for taking a proactive approach to advocate for all of his constituents.”

Council Member Deutsch will continue working closely with the city’s Build It Back program, which was designed to assist homeowners in repairing their storm-damaged properties. Following Amy Peterson’s appointment to head up the relief program, Council Member Deutsch has renewed confidence that Build it Back will move forward expeditiously.

Council Member Deutsch urges his constituents who need assistance with Build It Back to contact his District Office 718-368-9176.