Friday, July 21, 2006
Contact: Spence Jackson, 573-751-0290
Blunt Issues Third Executive Order to Help with Storm Cleanup in St. Louis Region
JEFFERSON CITY–Gov. Matt Blunt issued a third executive order today to help communities in the St. Louis region and other communities to clean up damage caused by the violent storm that swept through the area Wednesday.
Blunt's executive order will allow the director of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to grant waivers to help expedite recovery efforts.
"As we continue to help provide relief to citizens and communities in need through the Missouri National Guard and several state agencies, this order will help those communities dispose of debris quickly and efficiently," Blunt said. "We will continue to look for ways to help return life in the St. Louis region and in other communities back to normal after this fierce storm."
DNR will have the discretion to waive laws and rules pertaining to waste disposal to eliminate debris. Gov. Blunt has given the agency the same authority after damaging storms moved through the state.
Blunt issued two executive orders yesterday declaring a state of emergency in the St. Louis region and mobilizing the Missouri National Guard to help relocate vulnerable citizens and assist with debris removal.
Blunt visited St. Louis City and St. Louis County and saw the damage caused by the storm firsthand. He has met with St. Louis Mayor Francis Slay and St. Louis County Executive Charlie Dooley personally and has reiterated the state's offer of assistance.
State agencies have also been assisting citizens, local governments and relief agencies in Washington County.
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