Gov. Steve Beshear says seven more counties have been approved by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to seek help with the public cost of damage caused by the March 2 storms.The new counties announced Tuesday include: Ballard, Johnson, Kenton, LaRue, Pendleton, Trimble, and Wolfe. That brings the total to 14 counties that are eligible to receive federal reimbursements to county and local governments to repair public infrastructure, including the cost of removing storm debris and damage to public buildings.Assessments will continue in other counties and those may be approved for similar aid, according to a statement from Gov. Beshear's office."Supplementary funding under the PA program goes to the state and its agencies, local governments and certain private nonprofit organization. Under the program, FEMA obligates funds to the state for 75 percent of eligible costs, while the applicant covers the remaining 25 percent. The state forwards the federal funds to the eligible local governments or organizations that incurred costs."
The public assistance program is separate from the individual assistance program that provides grants to individuals or businesses, including renters, to help pay for temporary housing or repairs to homes and businesses not covered by insurance or other assistance programs.