For Release: Thursday, December 7, 2006
Contact: David Gillies: 202-225-5661

COSTELLO URGES PRESIDENT BUSH TO DECLARE ILLINOIS COUNTIES A FEDERAL DISASTER AREA

Washington - U.S. Congressman Jerry Costello (D-IL) this evening sent a letter to President Bush urging him to expedite Governor Blagojevich's request that 49 counties in Illinois, including Madison, St. Clair and Monroe Counties, be declared a Federal disaster area.  The counties endured severe, destructive storms last week. 

"A federal disaster declaration would greatly aid our recovery efforts," said Costello.  "State and local governments have done great work dealing with the recovery, and federal resources will help them meet the continuing need for assistance.  The combination of the extensive damage from the heavy ice, resultant power outages and cold temperatures have made this a particularly difficult recovery effort, and I will continue to do all I can to support it."

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