Declaration provides new resources to support recovery from recent flooding

Santa Fe, NM – Earlier today, Governor Lujan Grisham signed an executive order (attached) declaring a state of emergency in Doña Ana County. This order aims to provide local governments with the tools and funding they need to begin recovering from the heavy rainfall and severe flooding that began last week.

Like similar declarations for Lincoln, Chaves, Valencia, and Eddy counties earlier this year, this order provides up to $750,000 for the Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (DHSEM) to support public recovery efforts organized by city and county officials. In this instance, the state constitution does not allow state emergency funds to be used for direct financial assistance to private individuals.

This declaration also means that affected localities within the county could also be eligible for state assistance. Additionally, state emergency declarations authorize the Adjutant General to activate the New Mexico National Guard for necessary support, and they direct all cabinet departments to assist with a statewide response.

“Given the events of August 12 in the Colonia of La Union, it is imperative we pull together to gather the necessary resources to help mitigate the effects of anticipated rainfall,” said Doña Ana County Sherriff Kim Stewart. “This declaration will help us partner more effectively with the state’s resources in hopes of protecting all citizens and first responders throughout this emergency.”

“Thank you to Governor Lujan Grisham for signing this declaration – it is a major step in Doña Ana County’s recovery from this ongoing disaster,” said DHSEM Secretary Bianca Ortiz-Wertheim. “For one, this order provides critical funds to assist with repairs to roads, bridges, and other essential infrastructure. Additionally, state emergency management officials are on the ground to support local recovery projects and reinforce emergency protective measures. Moving forward, DHSEM will continue to work closely with the Doña Ana County Office of Emergency Management and other state, local, and federal partners to address this emergency. Finally, we would like to say how incredibly grateful we are to all the first responders who have supported this recovery.”

For situational updates and local resources, visit: www.facebook.com/DonaAnaCounty/

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DHSEM works to protect the people of New Mexico and the nation through a comprehensive and coordinated program of mitigating hazards, preparing for emergencies, preventing attacks, and recovering from disasters.

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