Lake County residents eligible for flood assistance

Lake County residents who experienced significant flood damage from the severe storms on June 26 may be able to apply for a loan from the U.S. Small Business Administration to help with damage repairs.

The SBA recently approved a request from Illinois to assist people and businesses in northern Illinois impacted by the June storm, which resulted in torrential rain and severe flash flooding that damaged more than 200 homes.

The SBA disaster declaration makes low-interest loans available to homeowners, renters and businesses.

For more information, contact the SBA at (202) 205-6734 or visit their website. The application deadline is Nov. 25.

This only applies for the June 26 storm. The September storms are not covered under this declaration.

Residents who do not qualify for the SBA disaster loan may have other options like the voluntary floodplain buyout program. Lake County residents who have homes that are repeatedly damaged and are interested in looking into a buyout for their property can contact Sharon Osterby at SOsterby@lakecountyil.gov for more information and program eligibility.