Four counties declared state disaster areas

Using the rising floodwaters of the Chain O' Lakes as a backdrop, Gov. Rod Blagojevich declared Cook, Kane, Lake and McHenry counties state disaster areas Friday.

The state will request that the federal government also declare the four counties federal disaster areas, which would open the door for homeowners to get financial assistance to help with their cleanup.

Blagojevich toured the Knollwood Park subdivision in Fox Lake, one of the hardest hit areas. He also flew over the Chain O' Lakes and the Des Plaines River to see the flooding and destruction from above.

"We are eager to be as helpful as we can," he said, standing in front of a 2-foot-deep puddle that cut off a portion of the subdivision. "Experience tells me to be cautiously optimistic that federal assistance will come."

Meanwhile, the state disaster declaration allows communities to apply for money to offset the costs of overtime for emergency workers, as well as sandbags and fresh water.

In addition, the village will be able to call upon other state agencies for help if evacuations become necessary.

Fox Lake Mayor Cindy Irwin said her village's budget is tight, and the governor's announcement was exactly what she needed to hear.

"The cost of this flooding would have truly destroyed the budget," she said. "But, now the state can help cover the cost. It saves us."

Blagojevich talked with homeowners during his tour of Knollwood Park. He said he was encouraged by their determination.

"Prognosticators have said more rain will come to this area over the next couple of days," he said. "I want to thank the people of Fox Lake, thank them for their spirit. I see the best in people during tough times like this."

Ron Madon, whose home was standing among about 2 feet of water, said he was happy to see the governor. He showed Blagojevich how he was managing to keep more water out of his house.

"I have a lot of sandbags and a lot of pumps running," he said. "The village has been great in helping me. Without them, I'd be in a lot of trouble."