Update: Cities Helping Cities Recover From Deadly Storm

Devastating December storms took their toll on western Kentucky cities. KLC members reached out and provided support and assistance to help their sister cities in need.

At this point, dozens of cities have stepped up to help the most impacted communities with on-the-ground personnel assistance, vehicle and equipment donations and loans, and much more. While the most urgent needs have been addressed, there will be long-term needs for months to come, which KLC will continue to monitor and communicate.

KLC is serving as a conduit for cities helping cities. KLC Member Services will maintain an inventory of available donations and work with impacted cities to provide information and contacts for items that serve their needs. Mayors in storm-damaged cities are encouraged to assess their needs and contact KLC with requests. Additionally, cities offering assistance can submit their available inventory to KLC. City officials should contact Member Relations Manager Terri Johnson at 800-876-4552.

Western Kentucky cities have established ways for people to keep up-to-date on public donations.

• Mayfield: Follow the Mayfield-Graves County Fairgrounds Facebook page for daily updates on needs. 
• Dawson Springs: Call the city’s donations hotline at 270-825-5024 for the latest needs.

KLC Municipal Law provided guidance on how cities should handle donations of equipment and property. KRS 82.083(3) controls the way cities designate “surplus property.”  The KLC Municipal Law Department can address any specific questions at 859-876-4552.

KLC Executive Director/CEO J.D. Chaney thanked members for the outpouring of concern and support for cities impacted by the storms. “The number of city officials and community members who immediately jumped into action and said ‘How can I help?’ is indicative of the teamwork and friendship that makes our cities so strong,” he said. “KLC is working diligently to ensure that cities in need receive the supplies and equipment so many of their sister cities have so graciously offered.”

KLC Insurance Services (KLCIS) representatives continue to work with cities to assess claims. KLCIS strategic partner Teladoc is offering medical assistance to residents in the impacted cities. The no-cost service is available to citizens, regardless of their medical coverage. You can learn more about that service here.

Kentucky established a Team Western Kentucky Tornado Relief Fund for anyone who would like to make a monetary donation. The funds will go directly to the on-the-ground recovery effort and storm victims in the impacted areas. You can donate at TeamWKYReliefFund.ky.gov.