Michael Martinet is Principal with The Martinet Group, LLC, specializing in teaching Disaster Finance and Cost Recovery programs. For over 25 years, Martinet has trained local government officials on how to maximize their disaster cost recovery under FEMA’s Public Assistance program. Attendees have come from cities, counties, states, special districts and private non-profit agencies across the nation. He has a master’s degree from California State University at Long Beach and is a Certified Emergency Manager through the International Association of Emergency Managers (IAEM). Martinet is the founder and chair of the IAEM Disaster Cost Recovery Caucus and former Principal on the National Fire Protection Association’s Standard 1600, the Standard on Disaster/Emergency Management and Business Continuity Programs. Martinet has also worked as a local government emergency manager since 1989 and retired in 2013 from the City of San Francisco where he worked as the Emergency Planning Manager in the Controller’s Office. Since 2013 he has focused exclusively on disaster cost recovery training for local government agencies and eligible private non-profit agencies.
“This comprehensive guide demystifies FEMA's Public Assistance program, offering local government agencies a practical roadmap for disaster recovery. From financial planning to project close-outs, the author provides clear insights, real-life case studies, and essential tips. An indispensable resource for maximizing FEMA funding while avoiding common pitfalls in emergency management and disaster recovery.” Ellis M. Stanley, Sr., Managing Partner, Ellis Stanley Partners LLC, Former General Manager of City of Los Angeles Emergency Management Department “When an event happens, you don’t want to deal with two disasters – the physical impacts and the financial recovery. Fighting With FEMA gives you the knowledge needed to develop pre-emptive strategies, implement sound documentation practices and make your jurisdiction eligible for the maximum recovery. Invest your time reading this book.” Bijan Karimi, Former Assistant Deputy Director, City and County of San Francisco Department of Emergency Management