WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
St. Joseph County officials are optimistic that State Sen. Kim LaSata’s effort might help the county secure “state of emergency” status.
LaSata on Wednesday called for Gov. Gretchen Whitmer to declare a state of emergency in St. Joseph County in the aftermath of the recent storms that left significant damage throughout the area.
In her message to Whitmer, LaSata said the week of Aug. 9 brought severe storms that left communities across the state – especially in Southwest Michigan – with significant damage and countless Michigan families without power.
Some areas of the 21st District saw up to seven inches of rain and winds between 60 and 70 mph that toppled countless trees, causing extensive property damage and a number of powerlines to fall, she stated.
LaSata said she called on Whitmer to send additional resources to the area to assist local officials and families who are still struggling to emerge from the devastation left behind, LaSata added.
St. Joseph County Emergency Services Director Erin Goff said municipalities and government entities would qualify for storm cleanup reimbursement only after the governor has declared a state of emergency.
