Dear Inspector General Roth:
We understand that you are currently reviewing the contract between the Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority (PREPA) and Whitefish Energy Holdings, LLC. We write to ask that you specifically determine whether costs incurred by PREPA under this contract may be eligible expenses under FEMA’s Public Assistance Program. In the wake of extensive storm damage or a disaster, states and municipalities normally contact a “mutual aid network" that can quickly mobilize thousands of workers to help with electric grid repairs. Reportedly, PREPA never took this step and entered into a $300 million contract with Whitefish Energy. We ask that you report on your determination as soon as possible.
If you have any questions, please ask your staff to contact Michael Lueptow of Chairman Johnson’s staff at 202-224-4751 and Claudine Brenner with Senator McCaskill’s staff at 202-224-2627. Thank you for your prompt response to this request.
Sincerely,
Ron Johnson Claire McCaskill
Chairman Ranking Member
cc: The Honorable Elaine Duke
Acting Secretary
Department of Homeland Security
The Honorable Brock Long
Administrator
Federal Emergency Management Agency
Source: U.S. Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs
