Gov. Andy Beshear is seeking FEMA approval for Individual Assistance for families in 16 additional Kentucky counties — including McLean — after President Donald Trump last week approved a Major Disaster Declaration covering 13 counties impacted by April’s historic flooding.
The Governor’s latest request comes as state officials continue to assess damage across a wide swath of the commonwealth. The move could provide critical relief to McLean County residents still recovering from the widespread flood event that began in early April.
McLean was also included in the 64 counties already submitted for Public Assistance, which helps local governments with debris removal and infrastructure repair.
“We have checked every box, and from what I gather, talking with FEMA officials, we have more than enough information. It’s just a formality of being added as an amendment,” said McLean County Judge-Executive Curtis Dame. “All the different parties have been very receptive and supportive.”
The county already met the metrics needed to qualify for Public Assistance, but Dame emphasized that securing Individual Assistance is a more rigorous process.
“The bar is a lot higher for that,” he said. “But with the major disaster declaration in place, it makes it a lot easier to obtain.”
Beshear initially announced a Major Disaster Declaration on April 25, following severe flooding, historic rainfall, and tornadoes across Kentucky. The declaration first approved Individual Assistance for 13 counties and opened Disaster Recovery Centers in those areas. The amendment sent this week seeks to expand help to more hard-hit communities.
In McLean County, efforts are already underway to address lingering public health concerns stemming from the flooding. Dame said mosquito control operations began this week, a critical step given the overabundance of standing water.
“There’s a window of control, probably two weeks to a month, depending on application,” he said. “Our personnel are trained, and our sprayers are calibrated. Mosquitoes are a vector for several pathogens that affect humans and animals, so public health is a major priority.”
The county will also begin debris removal operations in the coming days. McLean County residents can access the Ashbyburg Convenience Center in Hopkins County for debris disposal by showing a driver’s license or vehicle registration.
Dame said resilience and future preparedness are major focuses moving forward. If Individual Assistance funding is secured, the county plans to encourage residents to use recovery dollars not only for repairs but also for mitigation efforts that reduce future flood risks.
“We have an update training this Friday on flood prevention and resilience,” Dame said. “The goal is to repair properties in a way that avoids encountering the same damage again.”
Despite widespread property damage across McLean County, Dame reported that there have been no fatalities or major injuries directly linked to the flooding. Schools have reopened, and signs of recovery are emerging, including at athletic fields and parks.
“The grass is green. It just needs some dry weather now,” Dame said. “We’re all excited to get back to normal and finish the school year strong.”
Residents in counties approved for Individual Assistance can apply for aid online at DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling FEMA at 800-621-FEMA (3362), or by using the FEMA app. Those affected are encouraged to upload documentation, confirm their damaged home is their primary residence, and ensure their contact information is accurate.
