MADISON – Governor Scott Walker has asked the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to view tornado damage and meet with local and state officials in Barron and Rusk counties. The information gathered could be used to request the SBA provide federal low-interest loans to homeowners, renters, and businesses that suffered damage during last month’s EF 3 tornado.
“I know many homeowners and businesses are still trying to recover from the devastating tornado that hit the area last month,” Governor Walker said. “Damage estimates indicate more than $7 million in damage was sustained to the private sector in Barron and Rusk counties. We want to make sure we can provide disaster aid to help these families and businesses get back on their feet quickly and requesting an SBA damage assessment is another important step in that process.”
On May 16, 2017, an EF 3 tornado traveled 83 miles in four Wisconsin counties. Areas hit hardest were in Rusk and Barron counties. One person was killed and 25 people were injured when the twister hit Prairie Lake Estate Mobile Park near Chetek. Officials report 74 homes were destroyed or heavily damaged in the tornado. In addition, six businesses were destroyed or damaged, including a turkey farm.
In Rusk County, 33 homes were destroyed or heavily damaged in the tornado. Most of the damage was reported near the Conrath area.
Under an SBA declaration, SBA offers home and personal property loans, business physical disaster loans, and economic injury disaster loans.
