CALHOUN: Governor Pritzker issues Disaster Proclamation for Calhoun, Cook and Jersey counties
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By Steven Spencer
Governor JB Pritzker signed a Disaster Proclamation last Thursday, Aug. 21, regarding the July storm which brought heavy rainfall and significant damage to the area and local residents.
The proclamation cites the need for Calhoun and Jersey to issue their own Local Disaster Proclamations following the July storm that caused flooding, property damage, downed powerlines, sewer system damage, and destroyed roads.
“Illinois families and communities are still facing the impacts of these devastating storms,” Governor Pritzker said in a press release. “With this proclamation, we are making sure every tool at the state’s disposal is available to support recovery. Our administration will continue working alongside local leaders and federal partners to ensure impacted residents and businesses get the resources they need.”
The proclamation declares Calhoun, Cook and Jersey Counties as disaster areas, and directs the Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security to continue to implement the State of Emergency Operations Plans and to coordinate resources to support local governments in their response and recovery operations.
“I find that a disaster exists within the State of Illinois and specifically declare Calhoun, Cook, and Jersey Counties as disaster areas,” the proclamation states. “The Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security is directed to continue implementations of the State Emergency Operations Plan to coordinate State and federal resources to support local governments in disaster response and recovery operations.”
The proclamation also states that to aid with emergency purchases necessary for response, provisions of the Illinois Procurement Code that would delay action are suspended to the extent that they are not required by federal law.
“This proclamation can facilitate a request for Federal disaster assistance if a complete and comprehensive assessment of damage indicates that effective recovery is beyond the capabilities of the State and affected local governments,” the proclamation states.
“The damage assessments confirmed the tremendous strain these storms have placed on our counties,” IEMA-OHS Acting Director Theodore Berger said. “This disaster proclamation allows us to expand assistance and keep recovery operations moving forward. Our teams remain committed to working hand-in-hand with local governments to restore essential services and help residents rebuild.”
The disaster proclamation opens access to additional state resources and personnel that can be deployed to assist with recovery. Governor Pritzker also directed IEMA-OHS to continue coordinating with federal officials to determine whether Illinois qualifies for federal disaster assistance through FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration.
The proclamation will remain in effect for 30 days.
