CHICAGO — Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty this week signed legislation providing $80.3 million in aid to designated federal disaster areas rocked by floods in late September and storms and tornadoes in June.
The funding package will provide financing relief for 21 southern Minnesota counties that experienced flooding and 13 counties in the southern and northwestern parts of the state severely damaged by storms.
“We have acted quickly to provide the necessary relief and support for these communities to rebuild,” Pawlenty said in a statement. The aid was unanimously approved by the Legislature during a special session on Monday.
The package appropriates $26.8 million in general obligation bond funds, $38.5 million from the state’s general fund, $10 million from the transportation fund, and $5 million from the trunk highway fund.
The assistance provides funding for state highway, road, and bridge repairs, flood hazard mitigation grants, and clean up of public waterways. It also includes grants and loans for residents in need of home repairs, and businesses and other organizations affected by storms and flooding.
About $12 million will cover the state and local match for disaster assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Pawlenty declared a state of emergency Sept. 23 after more than 10 inches of rain fell in less than 24 hours, resulting in widespread flooding.
