McLean County added to disaster declaration as damage assessment begins

The Newcastle City Council meeting on May 12, 2025, focused on the recent addition of McClain County to the state's disaster declaration, which has significant implications for local funding and recovery efforts.

During the meeting, officials discussed the swift actions taken following the state's decision to include McClain County in the disaster declaration. City representatives, including Donnie, highlighted the collaborative efforts to document damages and prepare for potential funding. They emphasized the importance of meeting a specific threshold of damage costs to qualify for state assistance. If the damages do not meet this threshold, funding will not be available, which raises concerns about the recovery process.

The council also mentioned ongoing efforts to assess and document damage across the county. This includes taking photographs and working with the street department to identify areas needing repair. The officials noted that a workshop is scheduled in Chickasha to further discuss the necessary steps for submitting damage reports and securing funding.

Additionally, the council addressed the cleanup efforts, including the removal of debris that has caused washouts and other issues. They are actively tracking labor and time spent on these repairs to ensure proper documentation for potential funding claims.

Overall, the meeting underscored the urgency of assessing damages and the critical need for collaboration between the city and county to navigate the recovery process effectively. The next steps will involve submitting detailed reports to meet the funding criteria set by the state.