US small business administration approves disaster declaration for Southern Illinois counties

WILLIAMSON COUNTY, Ill., (KBSI) — The U.S. Small Business Administration has approved a disaster declaration for Williamson County and surrounding areas affected by severe storms and tornadoes on May 16.

The declaration allows residents, homeowners and businesses to apply for low-interest loans to cover damages not covered by insurance.

The affected counties include Williamson, Franklin, Jackson, Johnson, Pope, Saline and Union.

A Disaster Loan Outreach Center will open Monday at 500 North Holland St. in Marion, offering loan applications and information. The center will operate weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. until July 2.

Homeowners can apply for up to $500,000 in loans to repair or replace damaged property. Businesses and nonprofits can borrow up to $2 million for physical damages.