May 9, 2008

Palin Disaster Request For Juneau Businesses

From a State of Alaska press release:

Governor Sarah Palin today signed a letter requesting the Small Business Administration (SBA) declare an Economic Injury Disaster for the Juneau area businesses affected by the increased electricity costs due to an avalanche that recently knocked out power transmission lines.

"Small businesses are the heart of our economy and they need our help during this difficult time," Governor Palin said.

The Governor is following the recommendations given by the Disaster Policy Cabinet to seek any and all existing federal help for those affected by the increased electricity prices due to purchasing diesel fuel to supply power to the city.

"The Small Business Administration has provided economic assistance in similar circumstances in Alaska's history and I look forward to a positive response from the Governor's letter requesting assistance," Maj. Gen. Craig E. Campbell, commissioner of the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, said.

The Department of Commerce, Community and Economic Development has certified that Juneau meets the criteria of having at least five small businesses that are suffering substantial economic injury and are in need of federal assistance. The SBA will review the request and may offer low-interest loans to provide help for those qualified businesses.

Governor Palin also said a statewide, short-term energy relief plan will be announced next week. The plan will provide assistance to Alaskans struggling with the current high cost of energy. In addition to the short-term energy relief plan, the Alaska Energy Authority, headed by Steve Haagenson, energy coordinator, has been conducting town hall meetings in 25 communities across Alaska during April and May in an effort to formulate a comprehensive, long-term energy plan for the state.