Session for flood relief is called
The Legislature will consider on Monday spending up to $80 million on disaster relief for southern Minnesota.
On the heels of a federal disaster declaration for much of southern Minnesota, Gov. Tim Pawlenty has called a special legislative session for Monday to consider spending up to $80 million in state money on disaster relief.
The funding, tentatively worked out by the governor and legislative leaders earlier this week, would pay expenses related to flood damage in 21 counties in September and tornado damage in northern Minnesota and elsewhere in June.
The federal declaration clears the way for grants for debris removal and the repair or replacement of disaster-damaged, publicly owned facilities. It includes federal grants to mitigate potential flooding. It does not include money for individual property owners, which federal disaster officials turned down Thursday.
Upon getting word of that rejection, Pawlenty sent a letter to the Small Business Administration, asking for low-interest disaster loans for homeowners, renters, businesses and private, nonprofit organizations.
In his letter, Pawlenty wrote that 183 homes and 41 businesses were destroyed or substantially damaged by the floods.
"We thank the federal government for providing assistance that will help Minnesota communities in their rebuilding efforts, and we look forward to their decision on help for individuals who were affected by flooding last month," Pawlenty said earlier Thursday.
Total state-federal funding for the disaster relief for public facilities and land could reach $140 million. The state's portion would come mostly from $32.5 million in general funds and $26.7 million in general obligation bonds.
The tentative agreement between the governor and legislative leaders calls for spending $73.6 million in state money on relief for flood damage that occurred in September, and another $6.6 million on tornadoes and other weather damage from June and July.
The federal disaster declaration announced Wednesday evening clears the way for assistance for flood damage to Blue Earth, Cottonwood, Dodge, Faribault, Freeborn, Goodhue, Jackson, Lincoln, Lyon, Martin, Mower, Murray, Olmsted, Pipestone, Rice, Rock, Steele, Wabasha, Waseca, Watonwan and Winona counties.
In northern Minnesota, the city of Wadena would get $750,000 to design new public buildings wrecked in a June tornado. Another $5.2 million would cover damage in July to communities in central and southern Minnesota.
The special session is scheduled for 1 p.m. Monday. Pawlenty and lawmakers had previously predicted it would take less than a day, but there is a possibility other issues could arise.
Two DFL legislators have proposed anti-bullying legislation to laws against harassment in schools. House Speaker Margaret Anderson Kelliher and Senate Majority Leader Larry Pogemiller, both DFLers from Minneapolis, have not said whether they would hear the anti-bullying bill. But Pogemiller issued a statement Wednesday saying "we've all worked very hard" on the flood and tornado disaster relief legislation. "We are not going to let anything get in the way of this much-needed disaster relief bill."
Pawlenty has said the session should be limited to disaster relief.
The anti-bullying bill would need a two-thirds majority of the Legislature to be taken up during a one-day special session.
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The funding, tentatively worked out by the governor and legislative leaders earlier this week, would pay expenses related to flood damage in 21 counties in September and tornado damage in northern Minnesota and elsewhere in June.
The federal declaration clears the way for grants for debris removal and the repair or replacement of disaster-damaged, publicly owned facilities. It includes federal grants to mitigate potential flooding. It does not include money for individual property owners, which federal disaster officials turned down Thursday.
Upon getting word of that rejection, Pawlenty sent a letter to the Small Business Administration, asking for low-interest disaster loans for homeowners, renters, businesses and private, nonprofit organizations.
In his letter, Pawlenty wrote that 183 homes and 41 businesses were destroyed or substantially damaged by the floods.
"We thank the federal government for providing assistance that will help Minnesota communities in their rebuilding efforts, and we look forward to their decision on help for individuals who were affected by flooding last month," Pawlenty said earlier Thursday.
Total state-federal funding for the disaster relief for public facilities and land could reach $140 million. The state's portion would come mostly from $32.5 million in general funds and $26.7 million in general obligation bonds.
The tentative agreement between the governor and legislative leaders calls for spending $73.6 million in state money on relief for flood damage that occurred in September, and another $6.6 million on tornadoes and other weather damage from June and July.
The federal disaster declaration announced Wednesday evening clears the way for assistance for flood damage to Blue Earth, Cottonwood, Dodge, Faribault, Freeborn, Goodhue, Jackson, Lincoln, Lyon, Martin, Mower, Murray, Olmsted, Pipestone, Rice, Rock, Steele, Wabasha, Waseca, Watonwan and Winona counties.
In northern Minnesota, the city of Wadena would get $750,000 to design new public buildings wrecked in a June tornado. Another $5.2 million would cover damage in July to communities in central and southern Minnesota.
The special session is scheduled for 1 p.m. Monday. Pawlenty and lawmakers had previously predicted it would take less than a day, but there is a possibility other issues could arise.
Two DFL legislators have proposed anti-bullying legislation to laws against harassment in schools. House Speaker Margaret Anderson Kelliher and Senate Majority Leader Larry Pogemiller, both DFLers from Minneapolis, have not said whether they would hear the anti-bullying bill. But Pogemiller issued a statement Wednesday saying "we've all worked very hard" on the flood and tornado disaster relief legislation. "We are not going to let anything get in the way of this much-needed disaster relief bill."
Pawlenty has said the session should be limited to disaster relief.
The anti-bullying bill would need a two-thirds majority of the Legislature to be taken up during a one-day special session.
*******************************************************************************
Is the absentee gov
really in Minnesota? Or is he calling from Ohio, New Hamphire or from one of his taxpayer paid globe trotting trips somewhere else in the world? posted by bigmama1954 on Oct. 14, 10 at 8:20 AM |
Pawlenty sets special session for Monday
Who? posted by buckdharma on Oct. 14, 10 at 8:21 AM |
It's about time
How come it took him so long? Needed Obama to get the ball rolling on this. Cheers to Obama! posted by caresalot on Oct. 14, 10 at 8:21 AM |
The anti bullying cry is complete crap
Gee, let me guess which kid YOU were on the playground. posted by buckdharma on Oct. 14, 10 at 8:22 AM |
posted by MuffyAl on Oct 14, 10 at 8:15 am
your comment is beyond offensive!!!!! Anyone who has had a family member commit suicide for ANY reason should have you in a room to explain yourself and your comment then listen to what life has been like for them AFTER their family member committed suicide. A very narcissistic comment. If the word is too big for you to understand....look it up in Webster's. posted by bigmama1954 on Oct. 14, 10 at 8:24 AM |
Yay for Pawlenty.
posted by greatcomment on Oct. 14, 10 at 8:28 AM |
This might be
the first thing this guy's ever done as Governor. He may have also gotten the silver polished at the mansion too, but I can't remember. posted by tinitini on Oct. 14, 10 at 8:28 AM |
This special session should be free
to the tax payers of this state... posted by idontthinkso on Oct. 14, 10 at 8:44 AM |
Focus on Disaster Aid
This Special Session is not a DFL wishing party, it is about Disaster Aid for the people flooded out of their homes. Stick to the subject and stop pushing "Pork"! posted by stumped on Oct. 14, 10 at 8:53 AM |
buckdharma
I guess we know which kid you were.... posted by ravenmx on Oct. 14, 10 at 8:58 AM |
Stop The Bullying Of Risk Takers By The DFL
and liberals! posted by timetopay on Oct. 14, 10 at 8:59 AM |
Some Federal Money is Fine
This, but not money for jobs and health care. posted by davemec on Oct. 14, 10 at 9:03 AM |
Thats all fine and dandy....
But why has he spent about 80% of his time out of the state since he decided not to run for another term? Maybe he should only get 20% of what he's supposed to get paid. That would be fine by me because if I don't show up for work I don't get paid. posted by tjohnson98 on Oct. 14, 10 at 9:07 AM |
Sarah Palins Maid of Honor
was considerate enough to squeeze a day away from his "I am not running for President" campaign. How thoughtful and caring and kind. He has got to be the best Governor we have ever had. It is unfortunate he didn't run for reelection but he will be the next President so we will still be able to see and hear him. Good luck President Sarah Palins Maid of Honor. posted by edbradly77 on Oct. 14, 10 at 9:13 AM |
Thats all fine and dandy.... But why has he spent about 80% of his time out of the state since he decided not to run for another term? posted by tjohnson98
Doncha know he going to be the next President. He has all the bonifides and the gravitas he needs to be the next President. Sarah Palins Maid of Honor is made of pure Presidential Timber. posted by edbradly77 on Oct. 14, 10 at 9:18 AM |
buckdharma I guess we know which kid you were.... posted by ravenmx
Yeah, I was the guy that beat up the bullies. posted by buckdharma on Oct. 14, 10 at 9:22 AM |
Hope he can find his way to his office.
posted by jnelson25 on Oct. 14, 10 at 9:26 AM |
Suprised the president finally found time between vacations and golf
to declare the disaster. He's no faster than during the gulf oil spill. posted by lightenup on Oct. 14, 10 at 9:36 AM |
Stop the bullying bill
It is not about bullying, it is about locking YOU up. We already have laws on the books, this new one is going to be used against YOU. posted by wayways on Oct. 14, 10 at 9:40 AM |
I thought he was against federal government aid? Or is he against aid only to those who will not be advantageous to his future political aspirations?
posted by sarahanne on Oct. 14, 10 at 9:44 AM |
"Thanks" to the feds? ya right. sincerity at its worst.
Do you see how this can turn against you in your every day life? Definitions of bullying on the Web:
the act of intimidating a weaker person to make them do something, blustery: noisily domineering; tending to browbeat others, comprises repeated acts over time that involves a real or perceived imbalance of power with the more powerful individual or group, In a bullying manner, includes behaviors and actions that are verbal, physical and/or anti-social, such as exclusion, gossip and non-verbal body language, is the 'repeated less favourable treatment of a person by another or others, which may be considered unreasonable and inappropriate, is behaviour that can intimidate, offend, degrade or humiliate, Deliberate action or behaviour directed towards another person which may take many forms............... In otherwards, everything you do in your every day life could be considered bullying by another person. The teacher enforcing the anti bullying bill would be a BULLY. A parent telling their teen to do dishes before going out with friends would be a BULLY. Every boss would be a BULLY. Looking at somebody the wrong way will make YOU A BULLY. Being loud would make you a BULLY. This bill and all others like it are to make it easier to lock YOU up. This has nothing to do with bullies. posted by wayways on Oct. 14, 10 at 9:47 AM |
Big Mama
Did you ever consider that there are other reasons why people commit sucicide? Known/unknown medical issues,family life and upbringing. Don't make bullying the scapegoat especially when some consider bullying as looking at someone funny. Buck up. posted by MuffyAl on Oct. 14, 10 at 9:56 AM |
everything you do in your every day life could be considered bullying by another person.
That's to bad you're living your life that way wayways. Maybe having some kind words or jestures to you fellow man would help. posted by rds1449 on Oct. 14, 10 at 9:58 AM |
How Much Additional Pork and Ammendments Can the DFL Controlled Legislature Attach to this Effort?
I guess we are gonna find out! posted by newthoot on Oct. 14, 10 at 9:59 AM |
posted by MuffyAl on Oct 14, 10 at 9:56 am
Oh yes I HAVE considered many reasons why people commit suicide. I was speaking as a person left behind by someone who DID commit suicide. I have FIRST HAND KNOWLEDGE of what it is like and the trials and tribulations people go through before committing suicide. Consider all those forced into the military during VietNam...is that not another act of bullying...I do have first hand knowledge..obviously you do not have a clue. posted by bigmama1954 on Oct. 14, 10 at 10:01 AM |
"We thank the federal government for providing assistance"
Oh yeah, I'm sure Pawlenty's down on his knees thanking the federal government. More likely, he was hoping they would screw this up so he could use it while he's in Iowa running for president. posted by Starquest on Oct. 14, 10 at 10:09 AM |
Yo, hey DFL! Don't forget to sneak some anti-gun leglislation in
while people are *supposed* to be paying attention to disaster relief! And why don't you pass the "Rainbows In Every Home Act" while you are at it? We need our padded-playpen! It's "for the children" and "if saves just ONE child," it is "fair" and "equatable" and "just." posted by futurics on Oct. 14, 10 at 10:15 AM |
We have a BULLY governor.
Pawlenty should answer for his failure to send the healthcare letter AND for hiding the fact that he DIDN'T."Thanks" to the feds? ya right. sincerity at its worst.
posted by reasonable2 on Oct. 14, 10 at 10:16 AM |
Republicans hate human beings.
They are united in their love of MONEY. posted by reasonable2 on Oct. 14, 10 at 10:17 AM |
Sober up the gang....
there is free money to be spent. posted by rkn55811 on Oct. 14, 10 at 10:18 AM |
Back To The Topic: Disaster Relief
The Governor and the Legislature are charged with helping Minnesotans who've been affected by the flooding. The Federal Government is providing Disaster Relief, the Special Session will hopefully provide an outline on how to distribute more disaster relief. We shouldn't be having a partisan mud fight about this. People have lost their homes and businesses. Whole communities were devastated. Roads and highways were literally washed away. The focus of the Governor, the Legislature, and indeed all Minnesotans should be to help all those affected by the flooding. Instead of partisan bickering on an internet comments page, donate to the Red Cross or Salvation Army. posted by drbcoaster on Oct. 14, 10 at 10:25 AM |
rds1449
This has nothing to do with how I live my life. This has everything to do with how this new bill will be interpreted by those in authority and how it will be enforced and on WHO it will be enforced. According to the definition of a bully, a disfigured person could be considered a bully because of the way they look(reminded of the child that was scared of the downtown zombies). Rolling your eyes could be considered as a bully. Having a person wash a toilet(part of their job) would make you a bully. Saying no to your child would make you a bully. Just being a boss over others already makes that person a bully. A teacher is already considerd a bully by definition. Did you bother to read the definition of bully? It is a very loose term that in the wrong hands could be very dangerous to us all. Stop thinking everything that's for good is innocent and would never be abused(reminded of housing market wolves). posted by wayways on Oct. 14, 10 at 10:27 AM |
Yo, hey DFL Controlled Legislature! How About Sneaking In Some Stuff Minnesotans Need?
Like an Arizona style law cracking down on illegal aliens and the corrupt employers that hire them? posted by newthoot on Oct. 14, 10 at 10:27 AM |
Republicans hate human beings...
the Bible tells me so? What bible are you reading anyhow? posted by newthoot on Oct. 14, 10 at 10:28 AM |
Whoopie and Joy just walked out on
Bill O'Reilly. It will be on the net soon. Watch it and applaud those two. posted by wayways on Oct. 14, 10 at 10:33 AM |
Democrats.........
can't be trusted with power, all they want to do is enact more rule, laws, regulations, taxes and spending. It is ridiculous. The Governor will simply have to veto anything they pass that is beyond the reason for the special session. In fact, if I was the Governor I'd probably avoid the special session based on what the Democrats have said and they can deal with this next regular session. If the Dems want to pass some disaster relief then they should pledge they will do that in a special session and nothing more. I heard some idiotic politician say that bullying was an urgent issue that needed to be addressed...... huh? Really? There are plenty of laws on the books now that can deal with such things as well as school policies and of course..........parents! What a moron. These are the types of representatives we need to get rid of. Why don't more average folk with common sense start running?? Let's go people, it doesn't take rocket scientists to serve in the legislature. We need more people to step up and run and purge both parties of the entrenched "only we know what is good for you" type of politicians. posted by inreality on Oct. 14, 10 at 10:48 AM |
Governor and legislature say no money for health care for vets but throw money at those who do not buy needed insurance
These politicians have misplaced priorities. They throw our vets needing health care under the bus but toss millions at those who just were not responsible enough to buy needed insurance. The politicians and the folks from the flooded area should be ashamed of themselves. posted by minncitizen on Oct. 14, 10 at 10:50 AM |
keep the special session simple
can we please just address the main reason that the special session is being called for, disaster relief, and not bring up extra things? Save it for the regular session please DFL! posted by kelliherh8tr on Oct. 14, 10 at 10:53 AM |
Vikings stadium
Do you think Wilf would be bold enough to ask for $800,000,000.00 for a stadium during this special session? posted by rabidrat on Oct. 14, 10 at 11:52 AM |
and this is why we need every item voted on
no bundling bills. it is ruining the country. posted by muskiedog on Oct. 14, 10 at 12:43 PM |
Pawlenty said the session should be limited to disaster relief.
I think that's the only correct thing he's ever said!! posted by hope4all on Oct. 14, 10 at 12:50 PM |
minncitizen - do you even read these articles before you comment?
The federal declaration included grants for debris removal and the repair or replacement of disaster-damaged, publicly-owned facilities. It also includes federal grants to mitigate potential flooding. IT DOES NOT INCLUDE MONEY FOR INDIVIDUAL PROPERTY OWNERS. Quit your whining. posted by wardnjune on Oct. 14, 10 at 12:59 PM |
Wonder how many flood victims are going to vote...
...for the Tea Party types of vote against gov't spending like this. Glad my "big gov't" taxes can help these communities in their time of need. posted by mbrname4126 on Oct. 14, 10 at 1:53 PM |
You people are crazy!
If you think one of the flood victims wouldn't give up the aid in a second are nuts. Get over your petty partison hatred for one minute and consider whether or not you would accept help to clean up your home/neighborhood/community and replace damaged roads, etc. There is absolutely no empathy anymore. How about we all just agree to help our neighbors who have suffered from an act of nature. posted by obstakes on Oct. 14, 10 at 2:00 PM |
Wonder how many flood victims are going to vote for the Tea Party types?
I have never heard any Tea Party types talking about NOT providing disaster relief for floods to Americans. It is the unnessary government spending and bloat that the Tea Party is fighting. posted by newthoot on Oct. 14, 10 at 2:12 PM |
"This, but not money for jobs and health care..."
Yeah, right. Because unlike flood victims, people who get cancer or have their jobs sent to India brought it on themselves and don't deserve help. A flood - no problem. A terrible disease or years of joblessness - pull yourself by your own bootstraps. I'd rather pay more taxes and have compassionate help for all those in need. posted by mbrname4126 on Oct. 14, 10 at 2:13 PM |
You cant make this stuff up.
libs sneaking in extra pork when ever they have the chance,Nov can't soon enough,wow posted by dazel21 on Oct. 14, 10 at 3:16 PM |
mbrname4126
Here you go... From the Treasury Direct website: Make your check payable to the Bureau of the Public Debt, and in the memo section, notate that it is a Gift to reduce the Debt Held by the Public. Mail your check to: Attn Dept G Bureau Of the Public Debt P. O. Box 2188 Parkersburg, WV 26106-2188 posted by laurieloo49 on Oct. 14, 10 at 3:19 PM |
But Pogemiller issued a statement Wednesday saying "we've all worked very hard" on the flood and tornado disaster relief legislation. "We are not going to let anything get in the way of this much needed disaster relief bill."
Maybe but is he trustworthy???? posted by mcleanm on Oct. 14, 10 at 3:54 PM |
Unemployed liberals and gov't "workers" posting in middle of the day
Fortunately, somebody's still working so you people can spend your day surfing. posted by goldwater on Oct. 14, 10 at 8:20 PM |
This might give the 'stupids' pause, as they were told "guvment don't contribute nothin'" to the economy.
Yep, that's right kids, jobs will be created in the private sector, the place where all government spending occurs. Minnesota will go to the "free market" for what is needed.
I realize some do not approve of spending on other people, period. But that's just one particular kind of selfish conservative.
posted by donm251 on Oct. 15, 10 at 7:14 PM |
Flood Relief?
How can we think of this when kids are being bullied? People will figure out how to live without the relief, we need to focus on the children. posted by moodyhank on Oct. 15, 10 at 10:07 AM |
It does not include money for individual property owners...
Lookie, lookie, you don't matter. Feel bullied now, you will when the tax man comes a nocking. posted by moodyhank on Oct. 15, 10 at 10:11 AM |
Like all government expenditures, the relief money will be spent in the private sector.
The State will hire contractors who will buy labor and materials and other services to mend State property.This might give the 'stupids' pause, as they were told "guvment don't contribute nothin'" to the economy.
Yep, that's right kids, jobs will be created in the private sector, the place where all government spending occurs. Minnesota will go to the "free market" for what is needed.
I realize some do not approve of spending on other people, period. But that's just one particular kind of selfish conservative.
posted by reasonable2 on Oct. 15, 10 at 10:37 AM |
My Thoughts are..
Get in, get it done, and move on.posted by donm251 on Oct. 15, 10 at 7:14 PM |
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