Sedgwick County commissioners have voted to extend the local disaster emergency declaration for the April 29th tornado that left destruction from the southeast part of the county into western Butler County.    Commissioners were told that the initial declaration issued by Commission Chairman David Dennis would only be valid for up to seven days, and action would be needed to extend it.   The commission voted to extend it through at least May 18th.

Sedgwick County Emergency Management Director Julie Stimson said up to 35 structures in the county were affected by the storm, along with 180 structures in Butler County, but the number is expected to change as the damage assessment continues.    Stimson said both counties are working to collect data to see if disaster assistance funding can be provided through the state of Kansas.    Governor Kelly has asked for a federal disaster declaration for the storms that left damage in several counties.    Stimson said it is unlikely that Butler or Sedgwick County will meet the requirements for federal public or individual disaster assistance.

Stimson said two people in Sedgwick County had minor injuries from the storm and a third person is still hospitalized with serious injuries.   Four people had minor injuries in Andover.

Sedgwick and Butler County officials are working together on disaster response efforts.  A volunteer center has been set up at the United Methodist Church at 1429 North Andover Road.   People interested in volunteering can sign up there.    A multi-agency resource center continues to operate at the Andover Community Center at 1008 East 13th, and the Center is expected to be open at least through Sunday.

Sedgwick County Public Works Director Jim Weber said dumpsters will be set up in the damage areas next week for disposal of debris.  The county plans to begin picking up tree debris next week.

Stimson said there have been no reports of looting in Sedgwick County, but there have been some problems in the damage areas in Andover.   She said the county is working with the Sheriff’s Office to provide extra patrols in the area.

The Kansas Department of Transportation reported Wednesday that all lanes of Highway 54 have reopened between 159th Street East and Santa Fe Lake Road.   One westbound lane had remained closed after the weekend so repair work could be done.