New government program to aid with electric repairs

NEWS 9

City and federal officials launched a new program this week to help people with electric repairs from this month's ice storms.

The program pays electricians up to $500 for repairs to each home that can't receive electricity, but some residents are upset about the program. It will not reimburse people who have already paid for repairs.

"We've received a lot of calls this morning, it's unfortunate but those are federal regulations and we don't have any choice to abide by them," said Dennis Clowers, Oklahoma City public works director.

The program is through the Federal Emergency Management Agency. FEMA covers 75 percent of the costs and the state and the city pick up the rest.

Ten days after losing power, Tony Hargis said he was relieved to see crews working to restore his electricity, but it's costing him a pretty penny.

"I am disabled," Hargis said. "I don't work and I have very little money."

Hargis paid for the repairs before the program and can't reimbursed.

"People who are getting power put on now are getting paid for it and it doesn't seem like it's really a fair deal," he said.

Del City and Moore will also be joining this pilot program. The cities of Yukon, Mustang, Norman and Choctaw are considering it.

OG&E is providing free meter bases to those who qualify under this program. If you would like to sign up for a meter base, you can call 1-800-627-3464.