GALVESTON -- Galveston officials suspended the "Look and Leave" program for the island, effectively immediately, hours after it began, KPRC Local 2 reported Tuesday.

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Look And Leave Program Suddenly Suspended:
Ryan Korsgard Reports

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Mayor Lyda Ann Thomas initiated the program at noon to allow residents and business owners go back to the island city to see their damage firsthand.

However, the program was suspended indefinitely shortly before 6 p.m.

Officials said a news conference will be held Wednesday at noon to elaborate.

"The city of Galveston is in a dilemma," City Manager Steve LeBlanc said. "We really can't support the public coming back. At the same time the public wants to come back to check out what's happened to their property and that is why we have the look and leave policy."

During the initial "look and leave" program, residents, business owners and insurance agents were allowed to visit the island between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m.

Those who remained on the island past 6 p.m. would be fined $2,000.

Credentials were checked at the base of the causeway. Anyone entering the island must show their driver's license or a water bill as proof they reside on the island or photo identification that shows employment on the island or with an insurance company.

The city does not have any medical facilities available. The island does not have water, sewer, electricity or natural gas. There is no fuel or fuel available and no retail stores are open. There are also no auto or tire repair services.

"We have no cell phone service. We have no satellite service. We have no Internet," Thomas said.

Thomas said she relayed her concerns to President George W. Bush when he toured the area on Tuesday and he made it a priority to have communications restored.

The state is providing transportation for residents who rode out the storm on the island and want to leave. Anyone wanting to leave can go to the island community center to register and sign up for transitional housing.