Grand Island seeking emergency assistance after flood damaged homes, businesses

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – The City of Grand Island is pursuing emergency assistance a week after a heavy rainfall caused flooding in the area.

On Thursday, the city announced it was seeking funds through the Small Business Administration and the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency.

City officials are working to compile and submit a “comprehensive damage assessment to determine eligibility for federal and state disaster relief.”

Between June 25 and 26, more than 7 inches of rain fell in the Grand Island area.

Under the SBA’s guidelines, at least 25 homes or businesses must show at least 40% uninsured damage to qualify for the funds.

People are asked to call Grand Island Chief Building Official Ed Klimek at (308) 385-5444, Ext. 1209, if they think they meet the criteria.

Regardless of whether they meet the threshold, the city is collecting information from all affected properties “so a complete picture of the community impact can be evaluated.”

“We know that the recent flooding has taken a significant toll on many of our residents,” said Grand Island/Hall County Emergency Management Director Jon Rosenlund. “Our goal is to make sure we’re doing everything we can to access resources that will support recovery efforts for those hit hardest.”