Gov. Gary Herbert declares a state of emergency for southern Utah areas affected by flooding in Santa Clara on Thursday.
Matt Powers, Deseret News
SANTA CLARA, Washington County — Gov. Gary Herbert toured a Santa Clara neighborhood impacted by flooding Thursday and declared a state of emergency for Utah.
"My heart goes out to the local residents and families who were impacted by this terrible tragedy," Herbert said. "Recovering from disasters and rebuilding public infrastructure takes partnerships and cooperation. The state of Utah deeply appreciates first responders, local county officials, the countless and inspiring volunteers, as well as FEMA's efforts to help Santa Clara assess the damage so we can begin to rebuild what we have lost."
On Sept. 11, the earthen retention dam holding back Laub Pond was breached following a week of heavy rains. On Thursday, a track hoe was stabilizing the sides of the dam to keep if from collapsing further while city officials make repairs.
"In a way, it was like a tsunami, and you really couldn't get out of the way," said Carson Bostwick, whose home was destroyed by the flooding.
Sixty-six homes and 18 businesses were damaged with mud and water, along with roads, sidewalks and other infrastructure. Some homes suffered serious structural damage and may have to be condemned and knocked down.
"It's been tough on them," Santa Clara Mayor Rick Rosenberg said. "They've been cleaning out the basements, and the daily grind … of going down and facing the loss of your possessions and damage to your home is wearing on them."
The mayor said thousands of volunteers have come out and really helped lift the homeowners' spirits.
"People come to each other's aid immediately," Rosenberg said. "Even when the flood was still flowing, there were people coming to each other's aid down in there, and it's been nonstop ever since."
The affected areas of Santa Clara, Ivins and St. George suffered $3.8 million in damages to public infrastructure. Herbert anticipates signing a letter requesting President Barack Obama issue a presidential disaster declaration for the state in the next few weeks.
If approved, Utah would become eligible for federal disaster assistance for public infrastructure. Damage to homes and businesses would not be eligible for federal assistance.
E-mail: jboal@ksl.com
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While I empathize with the people impacted, I am intrigued that a large motivation for the declaration is to get money from the federal government. My, how Utah leaders speak out of both sides of their mouths.
Countless years of badmouthing Democrats and President Obama.
Years of rhetoric concerning the evil of government handouts. Whining about too much government in their lives........
shades of Saint George and the majority of Utah.
Sorry More..
I think all the folks down in Santa Clara who support the ridiculous rhetoric of folks like Herbert and Mia Love, if they have any integrity at all, should be protesting Herbert's decision - and instead be tin-cupping their neighbors for money More..