Disaster relief expanded to more counties

FORT KENT – Towns and cities throughout the state that were affected by the recent flooding and are struggling to find the money to repair roads, bridges and other infrastructure will receive additional help. The federal government has approved Gov. John Baldacci’s request for public assistance covering Aroostook, Knox, Lincoln, Piscataquis, Somerset and Waldo counties.

On May 9, President Bush issued a major disaster declaration for Aroostook County, enabling individuals and businesses to begin to seek assistance. The same day, Baldacci requested further public assistance for the six counties for the damage resulting from the flooding triggered by heavy rains that struck the state April 29 and 30.

Members of the state’s congressional delegation also lodged support for Baldacci’s request.

The public assistance approval allows the state and local governments to receive federal assistance in defraying costs incurred in response to the flooding and for recovery of public safety and infrastructure.

“I am pleased that assistance has been granted quickly so that communities hit hardest by the storm can focus on repair and recovery,” Baldacci said. “In my visits north since the flooding, I have been amazed at the extent of the damage, but also by the resilience and the warmth of the people I have met. Maine people don’t complain, but roll up their sleeves and work together. These communities are strong and will recover quickly.”

U.S. Rep. Michael Michaud of the 2nd District also applauded the decision, saying that the “damage in Maine requires the full support of the federal government.”

“I am pleased that the administration answered that call as well as our most recent appeal for expanding public assistance to include Aroostook, Knox, Lincoln, Piscataquis, Somerset and Waldo counties,” he said.

Michaud noted that while Aroostook County was hit hardest, roads, culverts, bridges and other public infrastructure across the state had significant damage.

“The funds now made available to the other counties, including Aroostook, will provide assistance to state and local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations for emergency work and the repair or replacement of disaster-damaged facilities,” he said.

The governor also announced a schedule of public assistance briefings in the six counties for which federal aid has been approved. The meetings are designed for public officials in the localities seeking assistance to repair public property and infrastructure, though the public is welcome.

The meetings in Aroostook and Somerset counties were held Wednesday.

The remaining meetings will be as follows:

. Piscataquis County, 9 a.m. Thursday, May 15, County EMA Office, Superior Courtroom, Dover-Foxcroft.

. Waldo County, 2 p.m. Thursday, May 15, Liberty town office, 7 Water St., Liberty.

. Knox County, 9 a.m. Friday, May 16, Knox County Courthouse commissioners hearing room, Rockland.

. Lincoln County, 1 p.m. Friday, May 16, Communication Center, Wiscasset.

jlbdn@ainop.com

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