SEMA to host briefings for public officials

The State Emergency Management Agency announced today that it will host 16 briefings for public officials of the 47 counties throughout the state that are eligible for public assistance following the March flooding and severe weather.

Governments can get assistance for emergency work, debris removal, repair and replacement of damaged "critical infrastructure."

Among Southeast Missouri counties approved for assistance are Bollinger, Butler, Cape Girardeau, Mississippi, New Madrid, Pemiscot, Perry, Scott and Stoddard.

In Southeast Missouri, meetings will be held at 1 p.m. April 21 at the Mill Street Community Building, 1199 Mill St., in New Madrid; at 9 a.m. April 23 at the Black River Coliseum in Poplar Bluff; and 9 a.m. April 24 at the Jackson City Council Chambers, 101 Court St., in Jackson.

Briefings will last approximately three hours, and public officials will be asked to complete an official request for public assistance. Some non-profits are also eligible for assistance.