On August 11, 2023 the City of Perry suffered damages from an F-1 tornado. Many beautiful old trees were shattered or uprooted causing extensive damage to sidewalks and homes. There were several power poles sheared off and power-lines became tangled in the tree debris adding an extra element of danger to clean up efforts.
Even though the city’s DPW suffered destruction at 3 of the 4 buildings housing city equipment, they worked tirelessly clearing the streets, removing trees, cleaning up debris and making the city as safe as possible. To date the estimated expense for clean-up and restoration of tornado damage, NOT covered by insurance, exceeds $205,000. Since cleanup efforts are still in progress this total is expected to increase.
Some restoration will have to be scheduled in the future due to lack of funding. The expenses related to clean-up will have to be paid as services are provided since the city must contract with companies that have special equipment capable of removing the large amount of debris from damaged and uprooted trees.
The city had applied for Emergency Financial Aid from the State of Michigan, but was notified on Sept. 12 that the city will NOT be receiving any emergency relief funds as our request for assistance has been denied.
Donations to support expenses not covered by insurance would help to reduce the burden on the General Fund. Donations can be made to “City of Perry – Natural Disaster” and mailed to City Hall, 203 W. Polly St., Perry, MI 48872.
Questions can be directed to Mayor Sue Hammond at (517) 625-6155 or email shammond@perry.mi.us.
Posted: Sept. 13, 2023
