I,TIM PAWLENTY, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF MINNESOTA, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and applicable laws do hereby issue this emergency executive order:
WHEREAS, on January 29, 2008, a heavy snow and strong winds moved across areas of Southern Minnesota causing whiteout conditions, extreme cold and severe wind chills; and
WHEREAS, the extreme weather conditions caused road closings;
WHEREAS, due to the weather conditions and road closures, travelers in Southern Minnesota have been stranded in various towns and along portions of Interstate 90 and Interstate 35 and are in need of emergency shelter and emergency assistance; and
WHEREAS, the Minnesota Department of Transportation, the Minnesota State Patrol, and County Sheriffs do not have adequate resources in the necessary areas for providing emergency shelter and other emergency assistance for stranded motorists; and
WHEREAS, the Minnesota Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management has requested that the Minnesota National Guard provide emergency shelter and other emergency assistance for stranded motorists in Southern Minnesota.
NOW, THEREFORE, I hereby order that:
1. The Adjutant General of Minnesota order to state active duty on or about January 29, 2008, in the service of the State, such personnel and equipment of the military forces of the State as required and for such period of time as necessary to provide winter storm support to include shelter operations and other emergency assistance in Southern Minnesota.
2. The Adjutant General is authorized to purchase, lease or contract goods or services necessary to accomplish the mission.
3. The cost of subsistence, transportation, fuel, pay and allowances of said individuals shall by defrayed from the general fund of the State, as provided for in Minnesota Statutes 2006, Sections 192.49, 192.52 and 192.54.
Pursuant to Minnesota Statutes 2006, Section 4.035, Subdivision 2, this Order is effective immediately and shall remain in effect until such date as elements of the military forces of the State are no longer required.
