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8/7/2020 10:58:15 AM
[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today appealed the decision by the federal government to deny a federal disaster declaration to help Minnesota rebuild after civil unrest damaged public infrastructure and caused extensive fire damage in the wake of George Floyd’s death.
On July 2, Governor Walz requested financial support from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for extensive fire damage to public infrastructure beginning on May 27. The request was denied on July 10.
“As we navigate one of the most difficult periods in our state’s history, the need for support from our federal partners is more important than ever,” said Governor Tim Walz. “The magnitude of this event was severe, and Minnesotans are hurting. We are asking our national leadership to join us in our efforts to help our communities to recover.”
“Many community cornerstones were damaged or destroyed in the civil unrest following the murder of George Floyd,” said Lt. Governor Peggy Flanagan. “We are committed to helping rebuild and restore these spaces that are more than just businesses – they are the core of the community.”
As stated in the Governor’s original request, over 10,000 public safety officials contributed to the effort to restore peace and safety, including the first full mobilization of the Minnesota National Guard since World War II. However, nearly 1,500 Twin Cities businesses were damaged by vandalism, fire, or looting. Current estimates of the damage exceed $500,000,000.
The Governor is appealing FEMA’s decision to deny a major disaster for the State of Minnesota. Under the Stafford Act, fires to public infrastructure, regardless of cause, are eligible for reimbursement. Minneapolis sustained extensive fire damage to public infrastructure caused by civil unrest at the end of May. A preliminary damage assessment found more than $15 million of eligible damages directly related to the fires. Federal assistance would reimburse local governments for 75 percent of eligible costs related to debris removal, emergency protective measures, and damage to public buildings and equipment.
