By BRENT MARTIN
St. Joseph Post
President Trump has approved a major disaster declaration for Missouri counties devastated from mid-March flooding which has yet to completely recede from some parts of northwest Missouri.
Gov. Mike Parson made a formal request for a federal disaster declaration in late April, at that time pegging flood damage at $25 million.
The presidential approval will allow federal aid to flow to 13 Missouri counties to help offset some of the cost to local governments to repair damaged roads and bridges and to nonprofits providing emergency response. The counties include Atchison and Holt which took the brunt of the damage in northwest Missouri. Also included are Andrew, Buchanan, and Platte Counties. Counties in central and southeast Missouri were also included.
“This disaster declaration means millions of dollars in vitally important federal reimbursements will be available for communities that are hurting because of damaged and destroyed roads, bridges, and other vitally important infrastructure,” Parson said in written statement released by his office. “I appreciate President Trump making the federal assistance available and all those who are already working to help our Missouri communities recover.”
Congressman Sam Graves who farms near Tarkio and represents the northern third of the state bordered by the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers, was pleased with the response from the White House.
“President Trump’s approval of public assistance is welcome news for Northwest Missouri counties impacted by the recent flooding and I’m grateful that we have gotten this disaster declaration. It will go a long way towards helping our communities as they rebuild damaged infrastructure and remove flood debris,” Graves said in a written statement. “I’m hopeful we’ll also hear soon on Missouri’s request for individual assistance so individuals devastated by this flooding can receive the help they need as well.”
Graves’ office says the request for individual assistance is still under review by the White House.
The presidential declaration also triggers help from the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Hazard Mitigation Program to prevent or reduce long-term risk to life and property due to natural hazards.