In response to the severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, and flooding that struck Austin County starting April 26, 2024, a Disaster Resource Center (DRC) is set to open tomorrow in Bellville. The center, located at the Bellville Police Department Training Center on 162 N Chesley St., will operate daily from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

***NOTE***  If you have questions about the DRC please DO NOT call the Bellville Police Department. The Small Business Administration (SBA) Office of Disaster Assistance is simply renting the room.

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Office of Disaster Assistance has expanded its support following President Biden’s declaration of a major disaster on May 17, 2024. This declaration includes Austin County among the primary counties eligible for federal assistance.

Residents affected by the disaster, including homeowners, renters, and businesses, are encouraged to visit the DRC for access to recovery resources (Links are listed at the end of this article.) Services provided include information on low-interest federal disaster loans from SBA, aimed at covering damages for those who are under insured or not insured. The deadline to apply for physical damage loans is July 16, 2024.

Key Details:

  • Location: Bellville Police Department Training Center, 162 N Chesley St., Bellville, TX 77418
  • Operating Hours: 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. daily
  • Application Assistance: Available onsite or through SBA’s website at sba.gov/disaster, by email at [email protected], or by phone at (800) 659-2955. *Additional links are listed at the end of this article.*

About SBA Disaster Loans:

  • Home Disaster Loans: Up to $500,000 for primary residence repairs.
  • Business Physical Disaster Loans: Up to $2 million for property repairs, including real estate and equipment.
  • Interest Rates: As low as 2.688% for homeowners, 4% for businesses, and 3.250% for nonprofit organizations.
  • Application Deadline: July 16, 2024, for physical damage loans.

There is no cost or obligation to apply, and eligibility is based on a case-by-case review for each applicant.

There is no interest for the first year and no repayment requirements for the first 12 months.

SBA disaster loans have no prepayment penalties and terms up to 30 years.

Affected individuals and businesses are urged to begin their applications promptly to ensure timely assistance. Additional information on eligibility and application processes can be found here:

List of important links for The U.S. Small Business Administration Office of Disaster Assistance.

Additional disaster relief documents can be found here on the SBA website

Below is the SBA representative George Kostyrko, giving his presentation to the Austin County Commissioners Court, begin at the 00:01:02 mark of the video:

 

 

 

Floating Vimeo Video