Douglas County Included in Disaster Declaration Request

Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn is requesting federal disaster aid for Douglas County and seven additional counties affected by last month’s flooding.

If the request is approved, residents will be able to apply for grants and low-interest federal loans to help with their recovery.

Joseph Victor, who is the emergency manager Douglas County Emergency Manager, said flooding damaged more than 170 homes, primarily in Villa Grove.

“We’re patiently waiting. When and if a declaration comes, they will contact us, and we will be setting up meetings in the communities that are affected to give FEMA the opportunity to begin to work their side of the street to help these individual get back on their feet.”

So far, more than $60 million in federal assistance has been provided to people in 25 Illinois counties approved for federal disaster aid.