Statement from Governor Tom Vilsack

Statement from Governor Tom Vilsack

DES MOINES - Governor Tom Vilsack released the following statement today regarding the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) denial of federal disaster assistance to Johnson County.

"I am deeply disappointed by FEMA's decision to deny assistance to Johnson County. Many families were affected by the severe weather on April 13th, and I had hoped that the Bush Administration would have taken an active role in rebuilding our communities.

"I am proud of the people of Iowa City and Johnson County for coming together and working to rebuild their communities. I know that together we will be able to overcome the hardships these storms have brought upon our communities.

The Iowa Homeland Security and Emergency Management Division continues to work with local officials in Johnson County to recover from the tornado damage. Local officials are currently considering whether to apply for State Contingent Loan funds to help with the costs they incurred in the response and recovery of the tornadoes. State Contingent Loan funds are available for application by local communities to receive zero percent interest loans, if approved by the State Executive Council.

http://www.governor.state.ia.us/news/2006/august/august1006_1.html