U.S. Senators Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) and Gary Peters (D-MI) responded Friday to the approval for a major disaster declaration following severe flash flooding that affected Houghton, Gogebic and Menominee counties.
In July, the lawmakers sent a letter to President Trump urging the declaration for the affected areas be made. The damage from the flooding in the three counties is estimated at more than $42 million in covered damage to public facilities. With this declaration, assistance through FEMA’s Public Assistance Program is available to communities in Houghton, Gogebic, and Menominee counties. All areas in the State of Michigan are also eligible for assistance under the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program.
“This funding is an important step in supporting recovery efforts already underway in Houghton, Gogebic and Menominee counties,” said Senator Stabenow. “I saw firsthand the extensive damage caused by the mudslides and severe water damage that has impacted so many families. I urge the Administration to also ensure that Individual Assistance is made available for local residents recovering from the severe flooding.”
“I visited Houghton last month to see firsthand the level of damage and was inspired by the resilience of the community,” said Senator Peters. “I am pleased that at our urging, the President has approved a federal disaster declaration, which is critical to swiftly addressing flood damage before winter approaches. As Ranking Member of the Senate Subcommittee overseeing emergency management, I will continue working to ensure FEMA recognizes the unique challenges facing the region as they work to rebuild stronger than ever.”
The Public Assistance Program and the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program provide grants to state and local governments to assist with response and recovery from major disasters.
The Public Assistance Program assists with debris removal, emergency protective measures and permanent restoration of infrastructure. The purpose of the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program is to reduce loss of life and property due to natural disasters and to enable mitigation measures to be implemented during the immediate recovery from a major disaster. For additional information regarding the federal assistance, please contact the MSP Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division at 517-243-0149.
