The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has denied Gov. Greg Abbott’s request for public assistance for Bexar County and several other counties affected by severe weather between July 12 and Aug. 4, according to a FEMA letter KSAT obtained.
In a Sept. 28 letter to Abbott, FEMA said damage assessments found infrastructure damage in Atascosa, Bexar, Blanco, Brewster, Comal, Medina, Terrell and Wilson counties “is not of the severity and magnitude to warrant their designation for Public Assistance” under FEMA.
FEMA also denied the state’s request for statewide individual assistance and hazard mitigation.
When KSAT reached out to Abbott’s office, Press Secretary Andrew Mahaleris said they are reviewing FEMA’s determination and appeals process. Mahaleris said the state will deliver “every necessary resource” to communities impacted by the storms and floods.
The full statement can be read below:
“The Office of the Governor and TDEM are reviewing FEMA’s determination and the appeals process. President Trump previously approved Public Assistance for 23 counties under the Major Disaster Declaration. Governor Abbott issued a state disaster declaration, extended SNAP replacement benefits, and requested federal tax relief for affected counties. Texas will deliver every necessary resource to communities impacted by the July storms and floods.”
On Wednesday, the City of Kerrville released a statement after the agency’s decision to deny the assistance request was denied. The city said it will remain hopeful the appeal process will “provide an opportunity for FEMA to reconsider its determination and make much-needed assistance available to the individuals and families who need it most.”
The City of Kerrville’s full statement can be read below:
“The City of Kerrville is disappointed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) decision to deny the State of Texas’ request for Individual Assistance following the devastating storms and flooding in July 2026.
“We have witnessed firsthand the tremendous impact this disaster has had on families throughout Kerrville and Kerr County. Many residents continue to face significant challenges as they work to rebuild their homes, restore their lives, and recover from the devastation.
“While this decision is disheartening, we remain hopeful that the appeal process will provide an opportunity for FEMA to reconsider its determination and make much-needed assistance available to the individuals and families who need it most.
“The City of Kerrville remains committed to supporting our community throughout the recovery process and will continue working alongside our local, state, and federal partners to advocate for the resources necessary to help our residents move forward.”
City of Kerrville
Texas has 30 days from the date of the letter to appeal the denial.
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