More Aid For Counties Affected By Colorado Fires

DENVER (AP) — The U.S. Small Business Administration has approved disaster loan assistance for farmers, ranchers, businesses, homeowners and nonprofit organizations affected by some Colorado wildfires, flooding and mudslides this summer.

The low-interest loans are available to people affected by fires and the subsequent flooding and mudslides in El Paso and Larimer counties. Neighboring Boulder, Crowley, Douglas, Elbert, Fremont, Grand, Jackson, Lincoln, Pueblo, Teller and Weld counties in Colorado, and Albany and Laramie counties in Wyoming also are eligible for help.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency also is making more aid available to help counties with hazard mitigation projects. However, the state's request for expanded FEMA assistance for wildfire victims was denied.

Meanwhile Larimer County commissioners on Tuesday approved a $1,000 reduction in building-permit fees for qualifying, underinsured residents rebuilding wildfire-damaged structures.