THUNDER BAY – “Although we are still coming to grips with the total financial loss, this announcement is a significant contribution towards the disaster relief,” said Mayor Keith Hobbs. “Our Provincial government has been here for us from the beginning and is here today to help us start to rebuild. While no community ever wants to face a disaster such as this, it is reassuring to know the Province is standing with us. I also want to thank Premier McGuinty personally for his direct involvement in making this happen”.
Hobbs thanked Kathleen Wynne, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, for being in Thunder Bay today to declare the affected lands a disaster area for the purpose of the Ontario Disaster Relief Assistance Program.
“As a community, we needed this announcement in order to help the people who were affected by the flood,” said Hobbs. “I thank Minister Wynne for coming to Thunder Bay to make this announcement, and I also thank Minister Michael Gravelle and MPP Bill Mauro for their attention and dedication during our time of need.”
The Minister announced up to $3.2 million to assist private owners in Thunder Bay and area, and up to $10 million to assist with the cost of returning the City’s infrastructure to pre-flood conditions.
The Mayor also thanked affected residents and businesses as well as the volunteers and staff who have responded. “It’s impressive and overwhelming how the city has pulled together through these difficult times,” said Mayor Hobbs.
Claims Will Take Time: Now that Thunder Bay has been declared a disaster area, the next step is for the soon-to-be-appointed Disaster Relief Committee to begin fundraising and focusing on claims.
“The claims process will take time,” said John Hannam, City Clerk. “A claim form is not available yet but we will make an announcement on the claims process as the Disaster Relief Committee gets under way.” The Disaster Relief Committee will be appointed by City Council on Monday, June 11. When forms are available, an announcement will be posted at Thunderbay.ca/flood.