FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 13, 1997
CONTACT: Dana Hagerty 202/225-2165
BRECKENRIDGE, MN -- Congressman Collin C. Peterson (DFL-7th District) today announced that the Federal Emergency Management Agency has approved $2,230,230 in disaster funds for the repair of the Breckenridge Public Schools.
"This is great news for the Breckenridge Public School System and the people of Breckenridge," Peterson said. "While Federal funding hasn't gotten to the area as quickly as we would have liked, the good news is that it is finally coming."
These funds will pay 75 percent of the costs to repair the damaged basement and equipment at the Breckenridge Elementary and Middle School. The remaining 25 percent will be covered by non-federal funds. Both schools were inundated with 3-1/2 feet of floodwater and sewage from the flood, contaminating walls, doors, equipment and utility systems. Asbestos insulated pipes were also exposed, posing an environmental threat.
"FEMA has obligated additional funds for architectural and engineering fees, damaged contents, and asbestos abatement," Peterson continued. "With those funds, the Federal share will be 75 percent, with the state funding 15 percent and the local government covering the remaining 10 percent."