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Aug. 30, 2023 Update
The Michigan State Police (MSP) recently provided guidance and several documents for local authorities in the impacted areas to manage storm damage assessments. The attached documents include:
We encourage you to review these documents carefully and share them with your relevant departments. The MSP is currently urging local units of government to follow the provided guidelines while waiting for further clarification on our eligibility for federal or state assistance programs.
If you have any questions on any aspect of the guidance, please do not hesitate to reach out to Tiffany Vedder with MSPs Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division at veddert@michigan.gov.
Aug. 29, 2023
Dear Local Officials and Community Members,
The storm that struck Kent County on Thursday, August 24, 2023, caused significant property damage. Many of our residents have been impacted by this disaster, and we extend our appreciation to the first responders, law enforcement officials, and public service agencies for their quick and efficient response during these difficult times.
In response to the storm's impact, Kent County Board of Commissioners Chair Stan Stek declared a local state of emergency for Kent County on August 29, 2023. This declaration takes effect today (Aug. 29, 2023) and will remain valid for a period of seven days. Click here for a copy of the declaration.
The decision to declare a state of emergency was made after careful consideration of the ongoing damage assessment, which continues to evolve as we gain a clearer picture of the extent of the destruction. It is also important to note that significant amounts of debris remain in various neighborhoods throughout the impacted area.
By making this declaration, the county, cities, and townships could become eligible for state and federal funding. This potential funding could provide reimbursement for the costs incurred during our collective recovery efforts.
A letter was sent to the State of Michigan also requesting a state-level State of Emergency for Kent County and a Federal State of Emergency be issued. These declarations could assist Kent County in obtaining additional resources for continued damage assessment and debris removal.
Thank you for coming together as a community and helping your neighbors as we work through this time of recovery.
- Kent County Administrator Al Vanderberg
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