August 04, 2008
Monday

Alaska Governor Sarah Palin today signed a Declaration of Disaster Emergency for the widespread flooding in the Northern and Interior regions of the state this afternoon at the Fairbanks North Star Borough Assembly Chambers.

"Our state emergency management professionals have done an exceptional job evacuating citizens and reducing the impact to homes and businesses," Governor Palin said. "However, much work remains to be done. This Declaration of Disaster Emergency will give local officials and state responders the ability to continue the swift and coordinated response effort that has been taking place."

The Governor's office will continue to monitor the situation to ensure state employees are doing everything possible to protect the lives and safety of the impacted citizens.

"Governor Palin instructed us to act quickly to make sure the needs of the residents of the Northern and Interior regions were met as described to us by the local mayors," Department of Military and Veterans Affairs Commissioner Craig E. Campbell said. "Our State Emergency Coordination Center has been in full swing, working with the Fairbanks North Star Borough emergency operations center as well as the communities affected outside the borough boundary."

This Declaration of Disaster Emergency will authorize state agencies to use disaster recovery programs to help repair impacted infrastructure, facilities and homes.

"I have seen, firsthand, the damage caused by this flooding, and I am very pleased that the Governor has come to the Golden Heart City to sign this disaster declaration," Borough Mayor Jim Whitaker said. "This declaration will allow the people of the Interior to move through this tough time as quickly as possible."

The Fairbanks North Star Borough Disaster Declaration estimates damage to more than 500 homes. Individuals with real property damage or loss of personal items can call the State of Alaska's Individual Assistance Hotline at 1-800-921-3682.

Source of News:

Office of the Governor
www.gov.state.ak.us

 

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