Call For Help In Highland Park
Highland Park Mayor Hubert Yopp is asking Governor Jennifer Granholm to declare the city of Highland Park a disaster area.
The mayor said city blocks have been destroyed by arsonists, fire trucks have broken down and put residents in danger. In a letter to the governor, Yopp said firetrucks are failing, firefighters are fatigued and the community is concerned.
A disaster declaration would make the city eligible for federal money.
WWJ's Vickie Thomas spoke with Mark Haskshaw, president of the Highland Park Business Association.
"A little drastic [action] may be needed, but a little drastic --- there are probably some other areas where we could use in between there that would get us the same results, and not stigmatize us," Hackshaw said.
Yopp is also asking the state for $5 million to help pay for the demolition of vacant homes.
As of Monday afternoon, there was no word yet from the governor's office.
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