AUGUSTA – Gov. John Baldacci announced today that six Maine counties will receive additional public assistance to help repair damage from flooding.

The counties that will receive money are: Aroostook, Knox, Lincoln, Piscataquis, Somerset and Waldo, according to the governor’s office.

Record flooding occurred in the counties two weeks ago, causing significant damage to roads and bridges, water control facilities and other public infrastructure. More than $2.3 million in damage was tallied under a preliminary damage assessment.

The Governor made the request on Friday. The approval enables the state and local governments to receive federal assistance in defraying costs incurred in response and for recovery to public safety and infrastructure.

The Governor reminded Aroostook County individuals and business owners that they should call to register for aid as soon as possible. The federal assistance may be used for temporary housing, repairs and for disaster-related expenses not covered by insurance or other assistance programs. Even if they are unsure of coverage, they should apply by calling 1-800-621-3362; 1-800-462-7585 (TTY). Individuals can also register at www.fema.gov.

The Governor also announced a schedule of public assistance briefings in the six counties for which federal aid has been granted. The meetings are designed for public officials in the localities seeking assistance to repair public property and infrastructure, though the public is welcome. The schedule is as follows:

MAY DAY 2008 FLOODING

Somerset County
8 a.m. today at the Somerset County Communications Center, 8 County Dr. in Skowhegan

Aroostook County
2 p.m. today at Northern Maine Community College, 33 Edgemont Dr. in Presque Isle.

Piscataquis County
9 a.m. tomorrow at the county EMA office, 163 E. Main St. in Dover-Foxcroft.

Waldo County
2 p.m. tomorrow at the Liberty Town Office, 7 Water St. in Liberty.

Knox County
9 a.m. Friday at the Knox County Courthouse, 62 Union St. in Rockland.

Lincoln County
1 p.m. Friday at the Lincoln County Communication Center, 34 Bath Rd. in Wiscasset.