Indiana Governor Requests Public Assistance From President Obama

Indiana Gov. Mitch Daniels is trying to recover public costs from this month’s storm damage and has requested federal assistance for five southern Indiana counties thus far.Daniels is asking for public assistance for Clark, Jefferson, Scott, Ripley and Washington counties. Warrick County is still being considered.Assessment teams of federal, state and local officials must now confirm that $8.6 million in damage has occurred state-wide to receive a disaster declaration. This includes public structures such as firehouses, and any damage sustained by a public non-profit organization.Federal assistance would cover 75 percent of approved costs of debris removal or repairs.FEMA officials say the review teams will work quickly over the next few days and a report should be prepared by the end of the week.Daniels has already requested and received a disaster declaration from President Obama for individual assistance. This includes help for homeowners, renters and businesses with property damage.