April 03, 2007 01:40 AM UTC

Holly Declared Disaster Area

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• by: Colorado Pols

Governor Bill Ritter made the announcement today. Click below for the full press release.

Following last week’s deadly disaster in Holly, Gov. Ritter today declared Holly a state disaster area. The disaster declaration sets the stage for any request the state may make of the federal government for financial assistance.

“After visiting Holly on Thursday, I know first-hand how devastating the tornado was to the community,” Gov. Ritter said. “I have directed the Colorado Department of Local Affairs, the Division of Emergency Management and other state agencies to continue assisting and doing everything possible to expedite the recovery process.”

Ritter said DOLA and other state agencies will put together a community disaster recovery team to coordinate state efforts. The team will assist with access to other sources of support, including technical assistance, financial aid and advice. The state also will review whether state grant funds may be accessed to provide assistance with infrastructure repair or replacement.

Ritter said he was extremely impressed with the fortitude shown by the people of Holly and touched by the outpouring of support from neighboring communities.

“This was a tragic show of force by Mother Nature,” Ritter said. “But the people of Holly are strong and we as a state will do all we can to assist. I want to thank the many Coloradans for their rapid response and tremendous support to the residents of Holly.”

According to a preliminary disaster assessment conducted by FEMA and the Division of Emergency Management, 164 homes were impacted by the tornado, including 48 that were destroyed or severely damaged and are now uninhabitable. The tornado killed one person and injured eight others.

“Community members are meeting tonight in Holly, and I have directed DOLA and DEM to continue to work closely with the people of Holly and Prowers County to determine what resources might be available from the state or federal government,” Ritter said.