WASHINGTON – Nebraska’s Congressional delegation today wrote to President Obama urging him to take swift action to approve Governor Heineman’s request for a federal disaster declaration from the May 11, 2014, storms in southeastern Nebraska. The request includes the counties of Clay, Fillmore, Saline, Saunders, Seward, and York, and would allow communities who suffered losses to be eligible for public assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
 

A copy of the letter can be found below: 
 

June 6, 2014
President Barack Obama
The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20500
 

Dear Mr. President:
 

We write in support of Nebraska Governor Dave Heineman’s request for a major disaster declaration related to severe storms in Clay, Fillmore, Saline, Seward, Saunders, and York counties in Nebraska.  Strong storms on May 11, 2014 caused significant damage to public infrastructure, homes, and businesses in many communities in southeastern Nebraska.
 

            The Nebraska Emergency Management Agency estimates that expenses and damage from these storms total at least $21.5 million.  Tornadoes and straight line winds took down power structures and left an extensive amount of debris in their path.  Roadways were adversely impacted by the downed power structures, as well as by damaged trees, irrigation systems, and water.  Three communities most affected by the storm are villages with limited resources.  The Small Business Administration (SBA) has already issued an SBA Disaster Declaration for some of the counties that experienced storm damage.

We applaud local and state leaders, as well as non-profit groups, who moved swiftly to deliver aid and clear debris.  When affected by natural disasters, Nebraskans have demonstrated time and again their resilience and ability to work together on recovery efforts and this was no exception.  As the recovery continues, the Federal Government has an opportunity to partner with the state in aiding recovery efforts.  We support Governor Heineman’s disaster request and appreciate your sincere and prompt consideration.

Sincerely,

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