Northport Officials Note Response To SBA Loans After Flooding

NORTHPORT, AL — The City of Northport is continuing to remind the public about federal aid available through the U.S. Small Business Administration for those impacted by flooding from Tropical Storm Claudette.

Northport City Administrator Glenda Webb said at the close of business Saturday that approximately 47 people had come in for face-to-face interactions with SBA officials.

Click here to subscribe to our free Tuscaloosa Daily newsletter and breaking news alerts

Webb went on to say that 24 applications had been completed, with roughly half being processed.

"We are beginning to see some relief given to our citizens and even though the disaster relief center is here at City Hall, it is open to any resident of Tuscaloosa County to make applications for these loans," she said.

Patch reported last week when the SBA set up in Northport City Hall to take applications and answer questions through Aug. 5 at 6 p.m. Bilingual services will be offered in person for those who visit City Hall.

While the state did not meet the $7.5 million in storm damage that would then make Alabama eligible for a federal disaster declaration, Northport and county officials hope the low-interest loans will provide some immediate assistance.

As Patch previously reported, 96 homes in Northport were impacted in some way by the flooding, with five houses destroyed and 38 sustaining major damage. Additionally, officials estimate $2.94 million in damage for Northport on June 19, along with $409,418 in damage for the City of Tuscaloosa.

On a wider scale, Tuscaloosa County EMA estimates approximately $5 million in damage was reported countywide to public infrastructure and facilities during the June 19 significant weather event, while individuals saw roughly $3 million in damage.

The deadline to report physical damage from Tropical Storm Claudette will be Sept. 20, while the deadline for economic injury disaster loans will be April 22, 2022.

Those in need of assistance can apply online here or visit Northport City Hall to speak with a representative in person through the first week of August. The SBA will also operate special hours this Saturday, from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.

Applicants can also call the SBA at (800) 659-2955.

Have a news tip or suggestion on how I can improve Tuscaloosa Patch? Maybe you're interested in having your business become one of the latest sponsors for Tuscaloosa Patch? Email all inquiries to me at ryan.phillips@patch.com.