In a recent council meeting, officials addressed the aftermath of a severe storm that struck Cottage Grove, prompting discussions on declaring a state of emergency. The storm, which occurred around 5:15 PM, brought wind speeds exceeding 45 miles per hour and rainfall totaling between 2.5 to 3 inches, resulting in substantial damage across the community.

City Administrator Jennifer Levitt provided an update on the situation, noting that the National Weather Service is currently assessing the extent of the damage. While initial reports indicate significant impacts from the storm, detailed assessments are still pending.

County Commissioner Carla Bingham was also present to discuss the county's support for cleanup efforts in the affected areas. The council is expected to formalize the state of emergency declaration following these updates, which will enable the city to mobilize resources and assistance for recovery efforts.