NORTHEAST HARBOR -- The town will get a financial helping hand from the U.S. Small Business Administration to help rebuild after the destructive fire of July, which devoured many businesses and the homes of people who lived in their buildings.

According to a press release, Gov. John E. Baldacci said the state's request for an Economic Injury Disaster Loan Declaration has been approved, meaning the affected businesses may borrow up to $2 million with a maximum interest rate of 4 percent to help them cover normal operating expenses through the disaster recovery period.

As a result of the fire, three businesses were closed for at least five days. Two other businesses remain closed.

"Small businesses are critical to Maine," Baldacci said in a prepared release. "The July Northeast Harbor fire was devastating to five such businesses. While the loss was great, the Economic Injury Disaster Loans will help those who were affected have the chance to reopen and get back to work as quickly as possible."

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