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Columbiana County Could Get Federal Disaster Assistance
WASHINGTON -- Ohio Gov. Bob Taft deserves a round of thanks for requesting that the Federal Emergency Management Agency declare Columbiana County a disaster area after heavy rain and strong storms caused severe damage throughout the county more than a week ago, said U.S. Rep. Ted Strickland (D-Ohio 6th). A FEMA disaster declaration cannot be made unless requested by a governor, he noted.Stickland also sent a letter to President Bush urging immediate action in providing federal assistance for Columbiana County.The severe weather led to extensive damage to homes, personal property, vehicles, businesses, and roads and over 4,000 Columbiana Country residents were left without power. Flooding damaged the main water line into the Village of Lisbon leaving the village without water. While damages are still being assessed, it is estimated by local officials that costs could exceed $4 million, Strickland said.Meanwhile, rainstorms that hit the local region last night and this morning, causing more flooding, school closings and other damage, likely will raise the total to well beyond the $4 million estimate.If a federal emergency is declared, the affected communities may be eligible for FEMA Public Assistance programs which help communities repair infrastructure, and in certain circumstances some may be eligible for Individual Assistance programs which give aid to people whose lives and homes are affected, Strickland said. In addition, if a federal emergency declaration ismade, the Small Business Administration may offer low-interest loans to eligible individuals and businesses to repair or replace damaged property and personal belongings not covered by insurance.Following is the full text of Strickland's letter to President Bush as written:Dear Mr. President,I am writing in support of Governor Taft's request that you declare Columbiana County a major federal disaster area due to recent severe storms and flash flooding.On August 27 and 28, 2004 Columbiana County experienced heavy quantities of rain, in some places exceeding 6 inches within hours, resulting in serious damage to public and private property. While damages are still being assessed, it is estimated by local officials that costs could exceed $4 million. Severe storms, along with subsequent flash flooding led to extensive damage to homes, personal property, vehicles, businesses, and roads. The heavy rainfall caused road slides, slope failures, stream bank erosion, and damage to the county's waste water treatment plant. Over 4,000 Columbiana County residents were left without power and the flooding damaged the main waterline into the Village of Lisbon leaving the village without water.Having toured some of the most damaged areas, I have heard first-hand accounts of the devastation and have seen up-close the heavy financial burdens the residents, businesses, and local governments of Columbiana County face. Therefore, I urge you to immediately declare Columbiana County a major disaster area so that communities may be eligible for federalassistance. Thank you for your time and attention to this urgent matter."