Great Lakes Wire

Relief is on the way for Mecosta County after Gov. Gretchen Whitmer (D-MI) declared a state of emergency following storms that generated flooding in the region in May.

According to a news release provided by the governor’s office, Whitmer signed the declaration on June 28.

“This state of emergency declaration will ensure that Michiganders in Big Rapids receive the resources and support they need to recover and rebuild following severe weather and flooding,” said Whitmer in the release. “Tough times call for tough people and Michiganders have been through a lot together, especially over these last few years. But we will have each other’s backs and get through this together.”

City Manager for the City of Big Rapids Mark Gifford said the city was glad that Whitmer recognized that the city needed help with recovering from the storm.

“The City of Big Rapids was overwhelmed with flood waters on May 11. It was the worst flooding the City of Big Rapids has experienced in over 30 years, with approximately four inches of rainfall in less than two hours,” said Gifford. “This major weather event impacted the city’s infrastructure and put a demand on critical resources, particularly as several roads and culverts were damaged in and around historic downtown Big Rapids and in local parks.”

Following the thunderstorm, a state of emergency was declared by the county in order to facilitate an area emergency response and salvage efforts, according to the release.

On May 12, Mecosta County declared a local state of emergency due to the severity of the flooding. 

“This is excellent news for the City of Big Rapids,” said Wendy Nystrom, Mecosta County commissioner for the 6th District. “I thank Gov. Whitmer for signing the Emergency Declaration for the city. This will help with the costs of repairing some of the damage that occurred during a severe storm that caused unusual flooding.”