ALBANY — State Sen. Rob Ortt has asked for assistance from the Small Business Association for High Tread International, the Lockport company ravaged by fire earlier this month.
Ortt penned a letter on Aug. 19 to the United States Small Business Administration Disaster Assistance & Operations Center and its director, Lori Storch, asking for the SBA to conduct a preliminary damage assessment.
The letter follows in its entirety:
Dear Ms. Storch
I write to you today to request disaster assistance for a business in my district that recently underwent a devastating fire.
On August 10, High Tread International Incorporated, which produces and markets recycled rubber products, experienced a severe fire in the City of Lockport.Now that first responders from 50 fire companies extinguished the fire and police and fire officials are investigating the suspecting arson, I request that the Small Business Administration (SBA) conduct a preliminary damage assessment.
Nearby establishments suffered a tremendous loss and I’m working to ensure that all levels of government assistance be provided to affected parties. It is my hope that the SBA is able to help in the community’s recovery.
Thank you for your time and assistance and please do not hesitate to reach out to me on this issue.
Robert G. Ortt
State Senator, 62nd District
