Disaster Funds Provided to Communities for Flood Recovery Efforts

Gov. Rick Snyder has committed state disaster contingency funds to Genesee County to further assist local jurisdictions in recovering from severe flooding that occurred on May 3 and 4, 2012. State disaster funds are being provided under the authority of the Governor’s state of emergency proclamation declared for Genesee County on May 11, making available all state resources to assist with local response efforts.

“I commend the first responders and agencies throughout Genesee County for their dedication to ensuring the health and safety of the citizens affected by this incident,” said Snyder. “The allocation of state disaster funds will further enable jurisdictions in Genesee County to recover from the flooding by repairing any damaged public infrastructure and continuing to provide critical services to their residents.”

Jurisdictions in Genesee County are eligible for state disaster contingency funds in the event they incurred costs due to the severe storm and flooding, including costs for damaged public infrastructure, overtime for first responders, mutual aid assistance and contracts for debris removal. State funds cannot be applied to private damage incurred by residents or businesses.

In accordance with the Michigan Emergency Management Act (Public Act 390 of 1976, Section 19), eligible jurisdictions may receive one-time state funding of up to $30,000 or 10 percent of the total annual operating budget for the preceding fiscal year of the county or municipality, whichever is less.

The Governor’s declaration and state disaster contingency funds were requested by local officials because the severe flooding was beyond the capability and control of local resources, requiring state assistance to support response efforts in protecting public health and safety.

SBA Disaster Loans Available

Homeowners, renters, businesses and non-profit organizations in Genesee County and surrounding counties are eligible for low-interest disaster loans through the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), which Snyder previously requested.

The deadline to file an SBA disaster loan application for physical damage is Aug. 27, 2012, and the deadline for economic injury applications is March 28, 2013. SBA disaster loan information and application forms may be obtained by calling the SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 (800-877-8339 for the deaf and hard-of-hearing) or by sending an email to disastercustomerservice@sba.gov. Additional information is also available at www.sba.gov.