Governor authorizes state disaster assistance for Isanti County flooding; board to seek details on eligibility

The Isanti County board announced it received an authorization from the governor to provide state disaster assistance after flooding and thunderstorms on Aug. 26, 2024.

Chair read the governor's letter, dated Jan. 27, which directs the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management to allocate amounts necessary for public disaster assistance under Minnesota Statutes Chapter 12B and to provide additional assistance where warranted. The letter names a state official (director Chrissy Rolwagen, referenced in the letter) as the authorized representative to allocate funds.

Commissioners said they want a briefing to clarify how much money is available, who is eligible and the timing for disbursements. The board asked staff to invite county emergency management staff (Clint and Maxon were named) to the next meeting to provide a damage-assessment update and to explain eligibility for local governments and private property owners.

Commissioners noted local costs already incurred for tree removal, road repair and emergency response and sought clarity whether those costs will be reimbursable and when funds will be available. Staff said the governor's letter formalizes prior indications that the county would receive assistance but that questions remain about the timing and the mechanism for distribution.

Ending: Staff will schedule a follow-up presentation from county emergency management (Clint and Maxon) at the next board meeting to review damage assessments, reimbursement eligibility and an estimated timeline for state disbursements.