Glendale has designated its emergency manager, Jeff McMenemy, as the city’s representative with the federal and state government to administer the recovery and reimbursement of funds used in supporting declared disasters and emergencies, such as the current coronavirus pandemic.

Mr. McMenemy has served as the city’s emergency manager since 2017 and has served on the Glendale Fire Department since 1993, where he is now a deputy chief. Mr. McMenemy was made the city’s applicant agent, or the point of contact for all matters relating to federal and state disaster assistance by a unanimous City Council vote Tuesday night.

Interim Deputy City Manager Rick St. John said any cost the city incurs while combatting COVID-19.

“That can be equipment, it can be personnel cost. It depends on the grant that you’re talking about,” Mr. St. John said. “…Essentially, between all the grants, we should be able to get everything that we’ve paid covered. At least that’s our hope.”

As the city’s applicant agent, Mr. McMenemy will manage all disaster projects ensuring that the projects are completed within designated time frames and within the scope of work allowed and will be responsible for submitting requests for reimbursement, time extensions and any correspondence relating to any designated emergencies or disasters.

Ocotillo District Councilman Jamie Aldama was glad the city had some flexibility to help its residents during the pandemic and get reimbursed for the cost.

“I think it’s important for our community to know that during a pandemic… we can do more for our community and knowing that we can be reimbursed is comforting,” Mr. Aldama said.