FEMA, Politicians Blame Each Other For Problems In Relief Goods Distribution

September 15, 2008 6:41 a.m. EST

Houston, TX (AHN) - Despite its claim that the Federal Emergency Management Agency was ready for Hurricane Ike, the agency was once more on the receiving end of criticisms over the delay in bringing relief goods to flood victims.

The criticism was over failure of the trucks loaded with water and food to reach distribution centers around Houston and nearby areas. FEMA attributed the delay to blocked roads.

State officials said it was a local responsibility. Some officials, like Houston Mayor Bill White and Harris County Judge Ed Emmett were surprised it was their job. White said, quoted by the Houston Chronicle, "If I could have known something 18 hours ago, we could have made plans to pick up something a lot quicker." But he insisted the delay in relief good distribution was only by hours and not by days.

FEMA has prepared 5 million liters of water and 5 million meals for Hurricane Ike victims. Some have already reached their targets while others are still on the way.

Texas Gov. Rick Perry, after an aerial survey of the extent of Ike's damage, told the Houston Chronicle, "None of these operations are perfect. There are always ways to do it better."

Meanwhile, for Houston Metro area residents who want to start rebuilding or repairing their damaged homes, McCoy's Building Supply announced it will open by 11 a.m. Monday 12 stores, except in Galveston. The open stores are in Brazoria, Baytown, Cleveland, Huntsville, League City, Orange, Pasadena, Rosenberg, Tomball and two outlets in Pearland.