The Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) announced over $1 million in Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds to assist in the recovery efforts in northern Michigan to ensure affected residents and communities receive the support and relief they need
“Northern Michigan’s historic ice storms tested the grit and resiliency of our friends and neighbors. As always, Michiganders passed with flying colors and have united the entire state to help the region overcome an incredible disaster. As part of Team Michigan, we are pleased to play a role in the ongoing recovery and cleanup efforts to help get the power back on, clear roads, and keep people safe,” said Quentin L. Messer Jr., CEO of the MEDC. “These funds will help support recovery efforts in impacted communities. As the work continues, our thoughts and prayers remain with our impacted fellow Michiganders.”
The storm caused widespread power outages, including loss of backup generators, loss of phone and cellular services, and impassable roads due to downed trees and other debris in eleven counties in northern Michigan. Though response efforts are still underway, the region suffered significant consequences from these conditions.
“On behalf of Otsego County Emergency Management, we would like to express our strong support for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding provided by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) to assist Otsego County and the other 11 counties in northern Michigan that were severely impacted by the recent historic ice storm, said Jon Deming, Chief and EMC of Otsego County Emergency Management & Homeland Security. “The CDBG funding from MEDC will provide critical financial support for both immediate relief and long-term recovery efforts to assist in restoring infrastructure, supporting local economies, and assisting with housing and public facility needs.”
Governor Whitmer declared a state of emergency that made available all state resources in cooperation with local response and recovery efforts in the designated areas. Working in partnership with the Michigan State Police, $792,000 in CDBG funding will support the purchase of thirty generators, along with related costs, to 11 counties, each of which will receive $72,000.
Counties to receive support include Alcona, Alpena, Antrim, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, Crawford, Emmet, Mackinac, Oscoda, Otsego and Presque Isle.
In addition, Montmorency County will receive $72,000 in CDBG funding to support the purchase of thirty generators, along with related costs, and $200,000 for food assistance to communities impacted by the disaster.
Funding will be leveraged by each of the counties to identify approximately 5 communities that were the hardest hit and within those communities prioritizing those businesses that provide health and safety services to most residents.
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