ST. PAUL — Gov. Tim Walz issued an executive order on Tuesday, July 8, authorizing financial assistance for veterans and their families to recover from the recent severe storm in Beltrami County.
The order amends a previous one issued by the governor to declare a peacetime emergency as a result of the storm, which was extended on June 30. It comes just over two weeks after the derecho brought hurricane-strength winds and caused widespread damage in Bemidji and surrounding areas.
The Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs may now activate the State Soldiers Assistance Program's Disaster Relief Program.
“Beltrami County has faced incredible hardship in the wake of these storms, and we continue to stand alongside Minnesotans impacted — including our veterans and their families,” Walz stated in a news release. “This order ensures veterans have access to the support they’ve earned as recovery continues across the region.”
The state veterans department can provide direct financial relief to veterans and their families facing unexpected hardships due to natural disasters. Assistance may include help with housing, utilities, and other essential needs, as determined by the department.
Damage assessments in the region are ongoing, and more counties and types of assistance may be added as needed.
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Contributed/National Weather ServiceThe weather service stated temperatures could reach as low as 34 degrees between 3-9 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 26, 2025, bringing frost that could harm sensitive outdoor plants. -
Larissa Donovan/KAXEThe authorization allows Beltrami County to access the state's disaster assistance contingency account, which reimburses the county 75% of the costs to repair public infrastructure. -
Larissa Donovan/KAXEBemidji's Parks Superintendent Scott Schroeder said the extensive cleanup work at the park included removing 224 trees and stumps. -
Contributed/MPCASmoke will reach as far south as Detroit Lakes, Brainerd and Hinckley by the end of the day on Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025.
