Tuesday, March 14, 2006
Contact: Spence Jackson, 573-751-0290
Blunt Seeks Expedited Federal Assistance for Missourians Impacted by Severe Weather
JEFFERSON CITY–Gov. Matt Blunt today spoke with President Bush regarding an Expedited Major Disaster Declaration for both individual and public assistance as a result of the recent severe weather.
“I am pleased that President Bush is aware of the seriousness of this issue and is working to ensure that Missouri has the resources we need to continue the recovery efforts,” Blunt said. “The president expressed his concerns for victims impacted by the recent severe weather.”
Nine deaths have been attributed to the severe weather, as well as 96 individuals with disaster related injuries. Reports indicate 354 homes were destroyed, 132 suffered major damage and 242 received minor damage.
If the president approves Blunt’s request, individual assistance would provide disaster grants or low-interest loans to families, individuals and businesses to help recover uninsured personal property and businesses losses.
“The recent severe weather caused infrastructure damages to numerous counties. County officials must be complimented for making repairs under trying conditions especially since the cost of those repairs has taxed local resources,” Blunt said
Public assistance, if approved, would help local county governments repair or replace storm damaged public property, such as roads, bridges, low water crossings, culverts and other public facilities. Funds for mitigation projects might also become available.
Blunt's request for the federal declarations was submitted today to President Bush through the Federal Emergency Management Agency Region VII Office in Kansas City.
Missourians who wish to make a contribution to recovery efforts should contact the State Emergency Management Agency toll free at (866) 254-0140.
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