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State Representative Andrew Falk
100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
651-296-4228
For more information contact: Matt Swenson 651-297-8406
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FALK DELIVERS FLOOD RELIEF TO LINCOLN COUNTY
SAINT PAUL, MN – State Rep. Andrew Falk (DFL – Murdock) returned to the Capitol Monday to deliver needed flood relief for Lincoln County. Damage to communities in Lincoln County is estimated at approximately $434,000 (part of which will be addressed with federal dollars).
Legislation (HF1) passed unanimously by the legislature today will deliver $68.2 million to address flood damage in 21 counties and $7.4 million to the tornado-affected City of Wadena.
“Communities in Lincoln County badly-damaged by recent flooding will get the relief they need to recover," said Rep. Falk, who voted strongly in favor of the legislation. “In the weeks and months ahead, I will do everything it takes to ensure every need is met in our communities as we work together to rebuild and move forward.”
Recent flooding damaged more than 700 homes and businesses throughout Minnesota, as well as hundreds of roads and bridges. Public schools, wastewater treatment plants, community centers and other important infrastructure also incurred serious damage.
“The strength of these communities, and our local economy, depend on the infrastructure that was so badly damaged by these devastating storms,” Falk said. “In times like this, Minnesota families and businesses depend on a speedy and effective response from state government. That’s exactly what we have delivered.”
Legislation passed today will cover 25 percent of the damages, with federal funds addressing the remaining 75 percent. Funding for the bill included: $32 million from the General Fund, $26 million from the Bond Proceeds Fund, $5 million from the Trunk Highway Fund; and $10 million from the State Transportation Fund.
In addition to roads and bridges, the bill passed today will also address damage to riverbanks and public waters. Local governments are encouraged to apply for help in repairing damage to local easements and riverbeds at http://www.minnesotarecovers.org/MR_09ForCommunities2.asp.
“My office will be of assistance in any way possible to ensure our communities receive the relief we need and are entitled to,” Rep. Falk said. “I encourage local leaders, as well as flood-affected business owners and homeowners to contact me directly with any questions or concerns.”
The majority of funding provided under the legislation is focused on rebuilding public infrastructure. However, $4 million has been set aside for no-interest Quick Start loans to assist individuals whose homes were damaged by recent flooding. These funds are a backstop for homeowners to pay for home repairs after they exhaust insurance and federal assistance – including FEMA and SBA.
Dollars appropriated under the legislation will be protected from waste and misuse by a new law Rep. Falk voted for in 2007 implementing new measures of oversight and accountability in times of disaster.
“With state resources scarce, strict attention to oversight and accountability is more important than ever,” said Falk. “And with so much damage that needs to be addressed, the state has a responsibility to make certain every dollar spent is used for its intended purpose.”
The bill also passed unanimously in the Senate and was signed into law by Governor Tim Pawlenty this afternoon at the state Capitol. Lawmakers will reconvene for the 2011 Legislative Session on January 4th.
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