09-10-2026 Gov. Braun Cuts Local Debris Cleanup Costs for Eligible Communities Recovering from August Storms

Gov. Braun Cuts Local Debris Cleanup Costs for Eligible Communities Recovering from August Storms

State will cover majority of remaining costs after FEMA reimbursement for eligible debris removal projects

INDIANAPOLIS - Gov. Mike Braun is reducing the cost of debris removal for communities recovering from August's severe weather, ensuring eligible communities do not have to bear the cost of recovery alone.

"I want to make it clear that Hoosier communities, from our rural towns to the suburbs of our capital city, will not shoulder the recovery effort alone," said Gov. Braun. "Debris removal is the next phase of this marathon, and we are with Hoosiers every step of the way."

As part of the federal Major Disaster Declaration, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will reimburse 75% of eligible debris removal costs in the 11 counties currently approved for Public Assistance. Gov. Braun announced today that the State of Indiana will cover 75% of the remaining local share, meaning local governments will ultimately be responsible for just 6.25% of eligible project costs.

The state has also secured contractors that can assist communities with debris removal and management.

*Communities interested in this program should email [email protected].*

How does cost sharing work?

FEMA reimburses local governments for 75% of the total eligible project cost. Normally, the remaining 25% is the non-federal share. Under Gov. Braun's plan, the State of Indiana will pay 75% of that remaining share, equal to 18.75% of the total eligible cost.

That leaves the local jurisdiction responsible for 6.25% of the total eligible project cost.

For example, on a $100,000 eligible debris removal project, FEMA would reimburse $75,000, the state would provide $18,750, and the local government would be responsible for $6,250.

Who is eligible?

The state will cost-share on eligible FEMA Category A projects in the following counties: Delaware, Fayette, Franklin, Hamilton, Henry, LaPorte, Lake, Madison, Porter, Tipton and Wayne. These are the only counties currently eligible for the state's debris removal and management operations. Additional counties may be added to the major disaster declaration.

Eligible debris removal activities under Category A must meet the following criteria:

• Must be in the public interest;
• Must eliminate immediate threat to lives, public health and safety; and
• Must be a result of the declared incident.

What should local governments do next?

Local jurisdictions should work with their county emergency manager to report waterways, rights-of-ways and private property for debris removal.

State-led debris removal operations will begin Thursday, Sept. 10 in Fayette County.

WHO TO CONTACT FOR ASSISTANCE:

If you're a property owner who needs assistance with debris removal, please contact Indiana 211.

Local governments interested in this program should email [email protected].

For additional information or media inquiries about this program, please contact the Indiana Department of Homeland Security at [email protected].

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