Declaration provides new funding and other resources to support recovery from recent storms
Santa Fe, NM – Governor Lujan Grisham on Thursday signed an executive order (attached) declaring a state of emergency in Mora County. This order aims to provide local governments with the tools and funding they need to begin recovering from the heavy rainfall and flooding that began early last month.
Like similar declarations for Lincoln, Chaves, Valencia, Eddy, and Doña Ana counties, 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.
Additionally, this declaration means that affected localities within the county could also be eligible for state assistance. State emergency declarations also 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.
“Mora County is in a remote region with limited access to hospitals and other critical resources, so these funds from the State of New Mexico will go a long way in protecting both our people and our property,” said Mora County Manager Michael Rivera. “As soon as possible, we hope to use these resources to begin rebuilding damaged roads and other infrastructure that our communities rely on. Our county greatly appreciates the immediate response from DHSEM, and we would also like to thank Governor Lujan Grisham and her staff for organizing this declaration.”
“Thank you, Governor Lujan Grisham for signing this emergency declaration – it is a major step in Mora County’s recovery.” said DHSEM Secretary Bianca Ortiz-Wertheim. “Moving forward, our department will continue to work closely with local, state, and federal partners to help the people of Mora County recover from this disaster. I would also like to express my appreciation to the DHSEM staff, first responders, and emergency managers who have worked so hard to support Mora County and the many other communities that have experienced disasters in recent months. You are all incredible public servants. ”
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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.