Document: Dayton Asks for Business Tornado Aid

Gov. Mark Dayton asked the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) for aid to businesses hit by the that cut across north Minneapolis and into Fridley.

Dayton's Tuesday letter (see PDF) requested aid only for Hennepin County, where damage was most widespread.

However some of the SBA's programs, including low-interest loans for homeowners and renters, may be available for counties surrounding Hennepin—if the agency approves Dayton's request.

as well as Hennepin County.

, with damage to several businesses on East River Road and Main Street NE. Dayton's letter cites at least 25 affected businesses in Hennepin County.

along with Hennepin in a disaster declaration that will cover 75 percent of tornado-related expenses borne by local governments and nonprofits.

.

Minnesota Department of Public Safety spokesman Doug Neville said a response from the SBA could come as soon as the end of the week.