Ohio Gov. Notes Four Counties Added to Federal Declaration for Storm Coverage

Ohio Governor Bob Taft announced that President George W. Bush has added Athens, Delaware, Holmes and Tuscarawas counties to the list of local governments that are now eligible for reimbursement for damages stemming from severe storms and flooding that occurred May 18 – June 21.

“The President has again shown his concern for the people of Ohio by making even more counties eligible for aid,” Governor Taft said. “The federal government’s speedy response to Ohio’s disaster requests will help ensure a rapid and thorough recovery.”

Local governments in the four counties can apply for Federal Public Assistance, a cost-share program that supplements state, local and voluntary resources and insurance compensation. This assistance reimburses communities for debris removal, emergency protective measures and infrastructure repair.

The 17 counties now eligible for federal public assistance are: Athens, Carroll, Columbiana, Cuyahoga, Delaware, Guernsey, Harrison, Hocking, Holmes, Jefferson, Knox, Medina, Noble, Perry, Portage, Summit and Tuscarawas.

Additionally, residents of 21 counties are eligible to apply for Individual Assistance. Residents and business owners in Athens, Carroll, Columbiana, Crawford, Cuyahoga, Delaware, Geauga, Guernsey, Hocking, Licking, Logan, Lorain, Mahoning, Medina, Noble, Perry, Portage, Richland, Stark, Summit and Tuscarawas counties can call 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) to register for assistance.

Since June 3, nearly $16 million in federal and state disaster assistance has been provided to Ohioans affected by these incidents.