Friday, May 30, 2008
Governor Culver Announces Presidential Disaster Declaration For Black Hawk, Buchanan, Butler And Delaware Counties
Action comes after Governor makes request yesterday
Des Moines – Tonight Governor Culver received notification that additional counties have been declared federal disaster areas by the President, making individuals, government agencies, and certain non-profit agencies eligible for federal assistance. The move comes after Governor Culver requested a Presidential Disaster Declaration from the Federal Emergency Management Agency yesterday afternoon.
“As Governor, I will continue to do whatever necessary to ensure that state government does its part to get assistance where it is needed,” said Governor Culver. “I just returned from my second trip to the affected areas yesterday, and I am encouraged by the cooperation between state, local and federal officials to help those Iowans affected recover as quickly as possible. And Iowans all across the state have done what they always do during challenging times – shown their generous spirit and done what they could to help their neighbors in need. By locking arms and working together, I am confident that we will rebuild these communities and return life to normal for the people of Northeast Iowa.”
The President’s declaration makes the following federal funding available:
- Public Assistance and Individual Assistance for Black Hawk and Buchanan Counties
- Public Assistance for Delaware and Butler Counties
Individual Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses, and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster. Public Assistance program funds are available to public entities and select non-profit agencies to rebuild damaged infrastructure.
On Tuesday, May 27, Butler County received expedited federal assistance to individuals and to state and eligible local governments and certain non-profit organizations for emergency protective measures in Butler County. In addition, the declaration made funding available for hazard mitigation measures statewide.
Information on how to apply for assistance will be made available as soon as it is known.