Front of the Capitol building

Feenstra Announces More Than $27 Million in FEMA Disaster Relief for Home Buyouts in Northwest Iowa

June 30, 2026
Press Release

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra (R–Hull) announced that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), has awarded more than $27 million in federal disaster recovery funding to communities across Northwest Iowa following devastating flooding, severe storms, and other natural disasters.

The funding will support critical recovery efforts, including facilitation of the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program and voluntary home buyouts of 247 properties throughout Northwest Iowa. Additionally, there is a release of Public Assistance program funds for helping families, local governments, and communities rebuild stronger while reducing future flood risks. 

"This funding is a major victory for Northwest Iowa and the result of relentless advocacy to ensure our communities receive the federal support they deserve," said Rep. Feenstra. "From bringing local leaders to Washington to meet directly with FEMA officials to working hand-in-hand with the Department of Homeland Security and local communities every step of the way, I have fought to deliver the resources needed to help Northwest Iowa recover, rebuild, and become more resilient. While there is more work ahead, I will continue doing everything I can to secure every available federal dollar for the families and communities impacted by these disasters."

Following the devastating flooding in 2024, Congressman Feenstra coordinated and led meetings in Washington, D.C., between Rock Valley officials and FEMA leadership to advocate directly for Northwest Iowa's recovery needs. He has also worked directly with FEMA, the Department of Homeland Security, and local officials across the region to provide oversight of funding applications and ensure communities received their long-awaited federal assistance for recovery and long-term mitigation efforts.

"This is really exciting news for our community,” said Mayor Kevin Van Otterloo. “We've been working toward this moment for a long time, and knowing that FEMA has obligated our home buyout application is a huge step forward for the families who have been waiting so patiently. I also want to extend a sincere thank you to Representative Randy Feenstra and his office staff. They have been incredibly helpful throughout this process, always willing to answer questions, provide guidance, and advocate on behalf of our community. We truly appreciate their partnership and support.”

With today's announcement, Congressman Feenstra has now helped secure more than $100 million in FEMA disaster assistance for Iowa's Fourth Congressional District, providing critical support to repair infrastructure, protect homes and businesses, and strengthen communities against future natural disasters.

The following FEMA grant awards have been approved or released for communities throughout Iowa's Fourth Congressional District and include, but are not limited to:

  • The purchase of 104 properties, and release of over $22 million in support for the city of Rock Valley
  • The purchase of one property, and the release of over $149,000 in support for the city of Sioux Rapids.
  • The purchase of two properties, and the release of over $360,000 in support for the city of Hawarden.
  • More than $1.34 million for Linn County to support recovery efforts.
  • More than $3.5 million for the City of Rock Valley for debris removal and repair.
  • More than $208,000 for Palo Alto County’s Drainage District. 

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