DENVER, Colorado – The Trump administration’s FEMA has turned down Colorado’s request for additional disaster aid tied to the Aspen Acres and Gold Mountain wildfires and the flooding that followed. The denial means residents of Pueblo and Custer counties will not receive the Individual Assistance funds that would have helped with temporary housing, home repairs and other disaster‑related expenses.
State’s response and appeal window
Governor Jared Polis expressed disappointment, noting that the state’s appeal period begins now. “The recent approval of Colorado’s Major Disaster Declaration was an important first step to clear debris and allow communities to begin the recovery process,” Polis said. “I am disappointed that Colorado was denied these additional portions of our request that would have further supported impacted families and communities.”
Polis added that Colorado is already coordinating debris cleanup with local governments and is evaluating options to address the shortfall caused by the denial. The state has 30 days to appeal FEMA’s decision.
What FEMA approved
While the agency rejected the Individual Assistance and Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) requests, it did approve Colorado’s major disaster declaration. That approval enables federal funds to repair critical infrastructure and cover debris removal on both public and private property, providing a vital lifeline for the affected areas.
Why the denial matters
Individual Assistance typically covers temporary housing, home repairs, and other essential expenses for families displaced by disasters. The HMGP funding would have supported long‑term projects such as flood‑prevention measures, storm‑water upgrades and wildfire mitigation—investments that reduce future risk and protect taxpayers from repeated damage.
Local officials in Pueblo and Custer counties warned that without these funds, many families could face prolonged displacement and higher out‑of‑pocket costs. Community groups are already mobilizing volunteers to assist with cleanup and to provide temporary shelter where possible.
Looking ahead
The appeal process will give Colorado an opportunity to present additional evidence and argue for the necessity of the denied funds. In the meantime, the state continues to work with FEMA on the approved disaster declaration to expedite debris removal and infrastructure repairs.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed through local news outlets and the Governor’s office for updates on the appeal and any supplemental assistance programs that may become available.
Original reporting: KRDO (Colorado Springs metro) — read the source article.
