Illinois Governor JB Pritzker announced Tuesday that a disaster proclamation is now in effect for fifteen counties severely impacted by a series of unprecedented storms. The proclamation authorizes communities to apply for up to $250,000 in disaster relief funding through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Community Development Block Grant program.
Who can apply and what the money covers
The funding is directed at small, rural municipalities and other local government entities, not private homeowners. Eligible applicants may receive reimbursement for debris removal, storm‑related cleanup, and repairs to public infrastructure such as roads, bridges, and drainage systems. Applications must be submitted to the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity within six months of the proclamation’s issuance on August 18.
Counties receiving assistance
The fifteen counties named in the proclamation are Alexander, Champaign, Cook, DuPage, Ford, Fulton, Kane, Lake, LaSalle, Marshall, McLean, Pulaski, Tazewell, Vermilion and Will. These areas have experienced a combination of heavy rainfall, flash flooding and a record number of tornadoes—over 200 confirmed statewide through mid‑August, according to local reporting.
State resources and equipment
In addition to the grant money, the proclamation streamlines the deployment of state personnel and specialized equipment to assist local authorities when requested. It also relaxes traditional procurement rules, enabling faster emergency purchases of items such as water pumps, generators and debris‑removal machinery.
Federal assistance remains separate
Individuals seeking personal storm‑damage relief are directed to apply through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The governor’s proclamation does not replace FEMA assistance but rather complements it by targeting public‑sector recovery needs.
Background and recent actions
Governor Pritzker toured storm damage in Lansing last week and recently signed legislation expanding flood‑relief options for Chicago homeowners. That law was a response to severe flooding on the Southwest Side of Chicago last summer and provides additional financial pathways for property owners to repair flood damage.
What this means for Illinois families
“I know these storms have impacted countless Illinois families and require us to band together to help them recover,” Pritzker said in a statement. “As this relentless and unprecedented weather continues to wreak havoc across our region, I remain committed to ensuring those impacted get the resources and help they need.” The governor’s statement underscores the administration’s focus on swift, coordinated recovery efforts for communities still grappling with the aftermath of the storms.
Looking ahead
Local officials in the eligible counties are expected to begin preparing applications as soon as possible, given the six‑month filing deadline. The state’s disaster response teams stand ready to assist with logistics, while the grant funding offers a critical financial bridge for municipalities working to restore essential services and public safety.
Original reporting: Block Club Chicago — read the source article.
