Freeborn, Faribault, Steele, Mower and Waseca counties included

 

By Albert Lea Tribune and Associated Press

 

President Donald Trump has approved a major disaster declaration for spring storms and flooding that caused nearly $40 million in damage to infrastructure across Minnesota.

Gov. Tim Walz said Wednesday the declaration will provide federal emergency relief money for 51 Minnesota counties and four tribal governments, including Freeborn, Faribault, Steele, Mower and Waseca counties.

Walz had requested the federal aid in a letter to Trump two weeks ago.

“The news of incoming federal disaster relief is welcome after an exceptionally difficult transition from winter to spring this past year,” Walz said. “Minnesota is on the road to recovery, and the assistance granted by this declaration will expedite that process enormously.”

The Federal Emergency Management Agency authorized using federal public assistance funds to reimburse affected communities for response and recovery costs.

FEMA will pay 75 percent of eligible expenses. The state will cover the other 25 percent from the Disaster Assistance Contingency Account.

“If you want to help communities recover, you have to rebuild roads and bridges so farms can operate, business’ doors stay open, and people thrive,” said U.S. Sen. Tina Smith, D-Minn. “This declaration will help ensure that Minnesotans are given access to additional resources to assist with just that.” 

Republican 1st District House Rep. Jim Hagedorn said the Minnesota delegation joined together in a bipartisan fashion to provide emergency aid to the communities impacted by the disasters.

“Minnesotans will do what they always do following natural disasters: join together to rebuild their lives and communities,” Hagedorn said.