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Topeka has received approval for more than $3.7 million in reimbursements from FEMA for infrastructure damage caused by a freeze event from January 8 to 16, 2024. The federal disaster declaration allows the city to recover 85% of eligible repair costs, including emergency water-main repairs, replacement of a chemical line, and rehabilitation of a wastewater treatment plant digester.

The remaining 15% will be managed within the Utilities Department's budget. City officials emphasized the importance of FEMA assistance in reducing costs for ratepayers and acknowledged the Utilities staff for their efforts in securing the reimbursement.