08/28/2026
As you may know, the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency (PEMA) and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) recently completed their damage assessments related to the July 28, 2026 flooding. Unfortunately, the results did not meet the thresholds required for federal funding assistance, which we know is disappointing for many in our community.
The SBA provided the following explanation regarding their determination:
"... the SBA utilizes two primary damage categories for administrative declarations: Major Damage, defined as an uninsured loss of 40% or more of the fair market value (FMV) of the land, structure, personal property, or business contents; and Minor Damage, defined as an uninsured loss falling below that 40% threshold. To qualify for an SBA administrative declaration, a county or political subdivision must record a minimum of 25 properties (residential, business, or non-profit) that have sustained Major Damage.
During the assessment in Franklin County, SBA Loss Verifiers evaluated 45 properties (36 homes and 9 businesses). SBA Loss Verifiers confirmed much of the observed damage was classified as Minor. Reaching the 40% uninsured loss threshold is challenging in regions where basements are common. In flooding events, basements often contain the bulk of the water volume, mitigating impacts on primary, above-ground livable or commercial spaces. Consequently, even when basements are fully finished, the total calculated loss to the structure and contents rarely meets the 40% threshold. For unfinished basements, meeting this statutory mark is even more difficult.
Ultimately, the joint assessment identified 10 qualifying Major Damage properties (8 Major homes and 2 Major businesses) within Franklin County. Because this total falls short of the legally required 25 Major Damage properties, the SBA is unable to issue an administrative declaration for the county at this time."
We understand how difficult and overwhelming the recent flooding has been for many residents and businesses. While these particular programs are not available, we have included information on additional assistance and state resources that may offer support during this challenging time. The Borough is also in close communication with our state and federal delegates as we work to identify any resources that could help those affected.
Please know that the Borough of Waynesboro is committed to standing with our community as we move forward. We will continue working diligently to pursue funding opportunities and long-term stormwater solutions across the municipality. Our goal is to reduce the risk of future flooding and help protect residents' homes, businesses, and peace of mind.
