Governor designates disaster assistance for Aug. 26, 2024 storms; Isanti County to brief board on local eligibility

Gov. of Minnesota issued a letter authorizing state disaster assistance for damage in parts of Isanti County caused by flooding and thunderstorms on Aug. 26, 2024, and the county board asked emergency management staff to brief the board and affected townships on eligibility and timing.

At the Feb. 25 meeting the board read portions of the governor's Jan. 27 letter, which directed the state Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management to allocate funds from the disaster assistance contingency fund and to provide public assistance in designated areas under Minnesota statutes chapter 12B. The board asked county emergency management staff (Clint and Maxon) to appear at the next meeting to explain how much funding may be available, who is eligible and how townships can apply.

Commissioners noted Bradford Township and parts of the City of Isanti had reported damage and said townships need clear guidance on the application process and timing. “There was an awful lot of money spent on tree removal, a lot of roads,” one commissioner said.

Next steps: county emergency management staff will brief the board and affected townships at a future meeting and clarify whether state funds have been disbursed and how local governments and residents may apply for assistance.