Press Releases...           

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                            Contact:  Jim Watson

December 10, 2007                                                                             (217) 243-6221

Morgan County Declared State Disaster Area

SPRINGFIELD – Representative Jim Watson (R-Jacksonville) applauded the efforts of state and local officials and emergency workers today after Governor Blagojevich issued a state disaster proclamation for Morgan County following the weekend’s ice storms.   The proclamation enables the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) to coordinate state resources to support local governments in their disaster response and recovery efforts, according to agency officials.

While local emergency response personnel worked diligently to restore safe passage along Morgan County roads and help stranded or injured motorists, IEMA personnel have partially activated the State Emergency Operations Center.  The center allows state officials and IEMA staff to provide local emergency responders and city, county, and township employees with access to state resources.  

“I truly appreciate the efforts of all involved in this situation.  Morgan County ESDA Director Bob Fitzsimmons, Sheriff Duvendack, and all of our local officials and city and county workers should truly be applauded for their quick, well-executed response,” stated Watson.  “I appreciate the Governor’s quick action to get our county the help we need as well.  My office has been constantly updated on the situation by IEMA staff, and they are to be commended.”

Watson encouraged residents to contact the appropriate county and city emergency response personnel in the event of an emergency, and urged residents to use caution in the face of continued severe weather.  Constituents are encouraged to contact Rep. Watson’s office at 217-243-6221 with any non-emergency questions regarding the state’s response. 

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