Feds Deny Disaster Assistance for Mpls. Tornado Victims

The federal government has denied Minnesota's request for disaster assistance for homeowners, renters and businesses hit by last month's deadly tornado in Minneapolis.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency sent a letter Tuesday to Gov. Mark Dayton, denying the request. FEMA says the tornado damage is not beyond the combined capabilities of the state, affected local governments and voluntary agencies.

Officials are considering their options. The state has 30 days to appeal the decision.

Last week President Barack Obama declared Anoka and Hennepin counties disaster areas following the May 22 tornado. That declaration will send money to state and local governments - and some non-profit organizations - for repairs to facilities damaged by the storm.

Preliminary assessments put the damage to public infrastructure at $16.3 million.

Read more from Channel 5 KSTP News.