Elkhart County commissioners have issued a local emergency declaration.

The move follows the statewide emergency already declared by the governor last week.

County officials say the local declaration allows agencies to recover money spent during emergency operations – including damage, overtime pay for road crews, police, fire and first responders who have been working extended hours.

A long list of public and non-profit entities may qualify for reimbursement, including schools, libraries, parks, highway departments, police and fire agencies, municipal utilities, wastewater systems, hospitals, long-term care facilities, and solid waste districts.

The county says anyone needing help determining eligibility for public assistance can call the county office at 574-891-2238.