DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) — Ohio Governor Mike DeWine is asking President Joe Biden to declare a Presidential Disaster for eight counties.
Between April 1 and 4, powerful storms struck parts of eastern Ohio, leaving “extensive damage.” Governor DeWine sent President Biden a nine-page letter outlining why he believes the state should receive the funds.
Governor DeWine is calling for funding for the following counties:
- Belmont
- Guernsey
- Monroe
- Jefferson
- Meigs
- Morgan
- Noble
- Washington
The Ohio Emergency Management Agency estimated damages at $33.8 million, but the White House put the figure at just $17.4 million.
“Frankly, I believe FEMA's estimate is incorrect,” said Gov. DeWine. “It is concerning that the federal government relied on Google Earth and did not provide local officials with an opportunity to provide additional information to support their estimate. Eight Appalachian counties cannot afford to repair the extensive damage to their infrastructure on their own, and I believe it is the President's duty to step in and help.”
Auglaize, Crawford, Darke, Delaware, Hancock, Licking, Logan, Mercer, Miami, Richland and Union counties have already received funds after Biden approved a separate proclamation.
If Biden decides to approve the declaration, DeWine said the money would be made available to be used to repair infrastructure.
