Declaration of Local Disaster signed for Jackson County

   County Judge Dennis Simons has signed a Declaration of Local Disaster for Jackson County, which opens up the possibility of residents with damaged homes to receive federal assistance from FEMA.

   "This is the start of a process," said Simons, adding that Jackson County may or may not qualify for assistance, but the declaration allows the county to assess the damage.  The assessment, along with the declaration, will then be sent to the Govorner, and then on to FEMA in order to see if Jackson County meets the criteria for assistance. The completion of this assessment requires the input and participation from those affected by the floods.   

   Judge Simons said this is the first step in a process that could help the county repair some of the damages suffered during Tropical Storm Bill. Those residents whose homes sustained damaged, who also do not have insurance to cover their damages are asked to contact Judge Simons' Administrative Assistant at 361-782-2352.