A panel controlling the Napier City Mayoral Relief Flood Response Fund was today expecting to approve the first grants under criteria agreed between the council and the Government last week.
The fund includes a $100,000 allocation from the Government and public donation, and provides one-off financial support to Napier residents and ratepayers affected by the flood after more than 230mm of rain was dumped on the city in just a few hours on November 9.
The council says the hardship grants go some way towards helping to alleviate the emotional and financial stress experienced by individuals and families, with at least 51 families seeking at least temporary accommodation because of the damage caused to their homes by flooding and slips.
Mayor Kirsten Wise said applications initially exceeded the resources of the fund. The panel had Tuesday received the first "tranch" recommended by staff for approval, payments were expected to be made soon after confirmation, and the panel would be considering a second list for approval for distribution of remaining funds.
The council is also expecting to go to the Government for further assistance, but was still compiling the details needed to make the case.
