Oklahoma Governor Henry Requests Additional Flood Aid

July 11, 2007 - Oklahoma City - Oklahoma Governor Brad Henry has asked federal authorities to add Nowata County to a major disaster declaration that President Bush approved July 7 for Ottawa and Washington counties. In addition, the Governor is renewing his request that Pottawatomie and Comanche counties receive aid under the federal declaration.

“Many Oklahomans across the state are still suffering from the aftermath of torrential storms and flooding,” the Governor said. “Hundreds of houses have been damaged or destroyed, to say nothing of irreplacable family possessions that have been lost forever. The citizens of these communities deserve help, and we are doing everything in our power to ensure they get the assistance they need.”

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If the federal authorities approve individual assistance for the requested counties, Oklahomans who suffered flood damage in those areas would be eligible for assistance for housing repairs or temporary housing, U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) low-interest loans for individuals and businesses to repair or replace damaged property, disaster unemployment assistance, and grants for serious needs and necessary disaster expenses not met by other programs.

As damage assessment surveys continue throughout the state, Gov. Henry said he will request that other counties be added to the declaration as conditions warrant. He noted that damage assessments are underway in communities impacted by flooding earlier this week.

“A number of areas were hit hard by heavy rains on Monday and Tuesday, and state and local authorities are on the ground in those communities making sure people get the help they need,” said the Governor.

When damage assessments are completed, Gov. Henry said the state will also be requesting public damage assistance to help repair infrastructure damages in counties across Oklahoma.

Source: Oklahoma Governor