Mineola, NY - Nassau County Executive Thomas R. Suozzi called on Gov. Pataki to seek federal aid for hundreds of Nassau County residents who suffered tens of thousands in damages as a result of the unprecedented rain storms last week.

Suozzi today toured flood damaged areas and met with homeowners in the Five Towns area who were particularly hard hit by the storm damage.

"We are calling on the state and federal governments to provide emergency relief to the hundreds of homeowners who have suffered serious property damage as a result of the unprecedented rain of last week," said Nassau County Executive Tom Suozzi, after touring damaged homes in North Woodmere with Legislator Jeffrey Toback (D-Oceanside). "Many homeowners have lost thousands of dollars due to flooded basements. Many of their losses are not covered by insurance. We need to provide as much assistance as we can as quickly as possible."

County officials are preparing an application for state and federal aid for damage done by the storm, and are working to assemble a damage estimate. Suozzi urged residents to report any damages they have suffered by Oct. 24 th to their local government officials or by calling the County at (516) 571-6000. Reports from residents, which should be documented in writing, will help the County determine the full extent of the losses, a necessary step in seeking state and federal assistance.

“A lot of people have lost a lot and are going through a tough time,” Suozzi said. “And we have to do everything we can to try to help them.”

In the wake of the storm, Suozzi said residents with any health issues, such as potential hazards from mold or damage involving raw sewage, should contact the county health department at (516) 571 3410. He also urged residents to use only licensed contractors when seeking repairs to damaged parts of their properties and to secure a signed contract before allowing anyone to begin work on their homes or businesses.