Staff recommends that City Council approve the resolution declaring a disaster due to the Yellowstone River flooding that occurred June 14 and 15, 2022.

On June 14 and 15, 2022, the Yellowstone River water level raised to historic levels. The high water level caused damage at the city's water plant, water reclamation facility, and one storm water outfall facility.  If the city declares a disaster, we are eligible to submit for reimbursement for costs incurred to repair facilities damaged in the flood.  Without the declaration, the city will be unable to pursue these funds.  Due to the timing of the event and the need to declare a disaster, the Mayor signed the disaster declaration as authorized under Billings, Montana City Code (BMCC) 2-903.  The City Council needs to confirm Mayor Cole's approval of the resolution. 
  
Sec. 2-903. - Declaration of state of emergency; mayor's duties.
The mayor shall have the authority to declare the existence of a state of emergency in the event it is deemed necessary to declare the existence of an emergency without delay, or when there is inadequate time to call a meeting of the city council. Such action shall be subject to later confirmation or revocation by the city council. 

The Montana Disaster and Emergency Services (DES) staff visited the impacted sites on Friday, June 24, 2022 to review the damages. If this resolution is approved, staff will continue to work with DES to pursue funding. 

City Council may:

• Approve the Resolution declaring a disaster due to Yellowstone River flooding; or,
• Not Approve the resolution declaring a disaster.  If the resolution is not approved, the City will not be eligible for funds that may be available for restoration of damages.

If the City approves the resolution declaring a disaster, there are funds that may be available to assist the city with repairs to our facilities.