For Immediate Release
May 30, 2000
Contact: Mark Pfeiffer (502) 564-2611 

Governor Surveys Leitchfield Storm Damage, Announces State Assistance

Leitchfield, Ky. – Governor Paul Patton today surveyed the damage to homes and businesses in Grayson County hit by last week’s tornado.  In a news conference at the industrial park in Leitchfield, Governor Patton declared a state of emergency in Grayson County and announced a $250-thousand dollar grant under the Community Emergency Relief Fund (CERF) that will be used to reimburse the local governments for the cost of debris cleanup from the storm. 

The governor also said Grayson County can apply for Community Development Block Grant Economic Development funds to assist those businesses in the industrial park with rebuilding. 

Governor Patton emphasized the enormous economic impact of the disaster, with nearly 3,000 jobs affected in a county of 24,000 population.  “Grayson County can apply for up to $1 million or they can make a multi-jurisdictional application with the city of Leitchfield for up to $2 million,” Patton said. “We want to ensure that these businesses and industries resume operations as quickly as possible and get their employees, the people of Leitchfield and Grayson County, back to work.”

The tornado struck Grayson County last Tuesday, May 23^rd, destroying 31 homes, with another 51 suffering major damage and another 102 with minor damage.  Most of the damage is in and near the City of Leitchfield. Fifteen businesses and industries also suffered damages, including three listed as destroyed.

Following a tour of the storm-damaged areas, Governor Patton said, “ It’s gratifying to see the work that has already been done in the recovery efforts.  While we’re glad that the state can provide some assistance, it’s evident that most of the work is being accomplished simply by neighbor helping neighbor.” 

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