Obama signs disaster declaration for storm-hit Minn. counties

President Barack Obama has signed a disaster declaration for 18 counties in Minnesota, making millions of dollars in federal aid available to help the state recover from June storms.

The president's signature paves the way for the federal government to help pay for efforts to clean up communities damaged by the severe storms, wind damage and flooding that hit Minnesota June 20-26.

Gov. Mark Dayton requested federal assistance last week, noting that the storms caused roughly $17.8 million in damages to public property like roads and bridges. The storms also caused heavy damage to trees and power lines, knocking out power to 600,000 homes and businesses.

The disaster declaration means townships, cities, counties, schools and some non-profit organizations will receive aid to help with the repair. The Federal Emergency Management Agency would fund 75 percent of the approved costs.

State and local governments would be responsible for the rest.

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