Magaziner Calls for Continued Federal Support in Wake of Devastating Block Island Fire

Washington, DC — Today, Representative Seth Magaziner (RI-02) sent a letter to Small Business Administrator Isabella Casillas Guzman calling for continued federal support from the Small Business Administration to help Block Island residents, small businesses, and the community recover from a devastating fire that tore through the historic Harborside Inn and damaged neighboring buildings.

“As we continue to navigate the recovery process, I kindly ask for the SBA to use all available tools to support affected businesses and individuals,” Rep. Magaziner wrote. “The loss of a historic building and damage to multiple businesses have devastated the community and continued support is crucial for our community’s sustained revival. The road to recovery is still ahead and the collaboration between the SBA and Rhode Island remains crucial. Please know that I am committed to working closely with you to address all ongoing needs.”

The federal government has approved Rhode Island’s disaster declaration, opening up federal resources for the business and residents of Block Island impacted by the fire. The Disaster Loan Outreach Center, located in New Shoreham Town Hall, will be open every day – except for Labor Day – through September 13. Those interested in applying for an Economic Injury Disaster Loan have until May 28, 2024 to file a claim.

A PDF of the letter can be found HERE and the full text of the letter is below:

Dear Administrator Guzman:

I write to express my sincere gratitude for the swift approval by the Small Business Administration of Rhode Island’s disaster declaration to aid businesses impacted by the Block Island Harborside Inn fire in New Shoreham, Rhode Island.

This disaster declaration makes available crucial support that will help residents, small businesses, and the community weather the challenges of this disaster. These Economic Injury Disaster Loans will allow employers to maintain payroll, continue providing benefits, and remain in operation as the town works to rebuild.  

As we continue to navigate the recovery process, I kindly ask for the SBA to use all available tools to support affected businesses and individuals. The loss of a historic building and damage to multiple businesses have devastated the community and continued support is crucial for our community’s sustained revival. 

The road to recovery is still ahead and the collaboration between the SBA and Rhode Island remains crucial. Please know that I am committed to working closely with you to address all ongoing needs.  

Thank you once again for the SBA’s dedication and continued support.

Sincerely, 

Seth Magaziner