Congressman Geoff Davis [KY-04] joined the Kentucky Congressional Delegation in sending a letter to President Barack Obama in support of Governor Steve Beshear's request for federal assistance in dealing with the aftermath of recent heavy rains, flash flooding, high winds, tornados and mudslides that have resulted in serious injuries and death.
"Kentuckians are suffering severe damages as a result of the ruthless weather over the past few days. Thousands of Kentuckians have been affected; some have even lost family, friends, neighbors or co-workers.
"The federal disaster declaration would provide some financial relief for Kentuckians whose homes or businesses have been destroyed as well as any roads, bridges, schools or buildings that have been damaged by the treacherous weather.
"I will continue working with Governor Beshear, the Kentucky congressional delegation and local officials to secure assistance that will provide rapid relief to Kentuckians affected by this disaster."
Dear Mr. President:
We write to respectfully ask for your approval of Governor Steve Beshear's request declare a major disaster to include Public Assistance and Individual Assistance for the Commonwealth of Kentucky as a result of heavy rains, flooding, high winds, tornadoes, mudslides, and flood damage beginning May 1, 2010. Additionally, we support the Governor's request that this major disaster declaration be cost shared 100% for public assistance categories A-G and direct federal assistance for the first seven days.
As you are no doubt aware, this storm brought severe thunderstorms across the Commonwealth causing damaging winds, torrential rain, and flooding that paralyzed many countries. Local officials inform us the flooding occuring in these areas is simply overwhelming. Roads, sewer systems, clean water systems, ambulance services, and buildings are either being washed away by the heavy floods or being overrun by large amounts of water that is contaminated, which causes drinking water to be unsafe. Over the last year the Commonwealth has been hit by several disasters depleting state and local resources for response, which is why federal assistance is direly needed. On behalf of our constituents, thank you for your prompt attention to the federal assistance request from Governor Beshear.