Guinn asks federal disaster declaration

(Appeal Capitol Bureau) - Gov. Kenny Guinn asked President Bush on Tuesday to issue a presidential disaster declaration to help the state and western Nevada local governments recover from flood damage over the New Year's weekend.

Federal and state emergency management teams along with local officials conducted damage assessments over the past couple of weeks and estimate damages at $17 million.

Guinn said a presidential declaration would help state and local agencies access federal funding to recoup most of what they spent putting area roads, bridges and other infrastructure back in operation. It would qualify the state for reimbursement of 75 percent of costs incurred.

"Based on the preliminary damage assessment of the situation, I believe Nevada will be granted its request for financial assistance from the federal government," Guinn said.