Former FEMA Director To Conduct Review of Power Companies and Handling of Winter Storm

Gov. Dannel P. Malloy has announced that Witt Associates, a consulting firm led by former FEMA Director James Lee Witt, will conduct a thorough and timely review of both Connecticut Light & Power and United Illuminating and their handling of the recent winter storm.

Witt is the chief operating officer of Witt Associates, a consulting firm that focuses on public safety and crisis management from mitigation to preparedness, response and recovery. Witt is conducting this review, which Witt Associates will have completed by Dec. 1, pro bono.

“As soon as everyone’s lights are back on, we need to have a very timely, thorough review of the power companies’ performances, to identify what went wrong, why it went wrong, and most importantly identify solutions for the short-term before the next winter storm impacts Connecticut,” Malloy said.

“Witt Associates has a body of experience that is second to none. James and his colleagues have worked on the state and federal level and they understand how critical it is to conduct this review quickly and thoroughly. I appreciate his offer to help us.”

Witt has over 25 years of disaster management experience, culminating in his appointment as the Director of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, where he served from 1993-2001. 

As FEMA Director, Witt coordinated federal disaster relief on behalf of President Bill Clinton, including the response and recovery activities of 28 federal agencies and departments, the American Red Cross, and other voluntary agencies. He also oversaw the National Flood Insurance Program, the U.S. Fire Administration and other pro-active mitigation activities that reduce loss of life and property from all types of hazards.

Prior to his time at FEMA, Witt led the Arkansas Office of Emergency Services, a position he held for four years.