The following message was sent to members of the Historic Downtown Galveston Partnership by Lesley Sommer, the executive director:
HDGP Board & Members-
First of all, I hope that this message reaches all of you in good health and out of harm’s way. I have been to Galveston and have seen the devastation downtown, and I know that HDGP has much work ahead in assisting all of the businesses and residents downtown. Craig, Joyce and I have been in contact with each other, and I have met with the Texas Downtown Association (from whose Austin office I am currently writing this) to begin coordinating our post-storm efforts.
We will be forming task forces to help with building assessments and other needs as they arise. We know that Small Business Administration loans may be critical for many of you, and we will be investigating what we can do to make the process smoother for everyone. Also, if you haven’t already done so, register for aid with FEMA as soon as possible.
Members of the HDGP Executive Committee, Craig and I would like for us to have a conference call next week if possible, and I will be sending more information on this when I can.
Obviously, things are changing daily concerning the Island and downtown. I will try to keep everyone as informed as possible.
I wish you all the best,
Lesley
