ST. PAUL — The Federal Emergency Management Agency is standing by its denial of flood aid for individuals and businesses in northeastern Minnesota.

Gov. Mark Dayton’s office says Dayton received word Friday from FEMA that the agency has denied his appeal.

In a statement, Dayton says he’s disappointed by the decision. He says he will ask the Legislature to included that assistance — estimated at $7.4 million — in the upcoming special session.

FEMA head Craig Fugate said in a letter to Dayton that the agency reaffirmed its findings that damage to dwellings was not severe enough to qualify.

FEMA has approved assistance for repairs of publicly owned buildings, roads and structures.