Source: The Washington Times

MINOT, N.D. (AP) - Minot has appointed a chief resilience officer as part of an attempt to earn a portion of nearly $1 billion in federal grant money to boost flood recovery efforts.

Minot is competing against nearly 70 other applicants in the National Disaster Resiliency Competition, which aims to help communities continue recovery and enhance resilience for future disasters.

As part of the competition’s first phase, officials were recommended the appointment of a chief resilience officer.

Officials chose city planner Donna Bye for the new position. She’s expected to work with city departments and community members to “maximize innovation and minimize the impact of unforeseen events.”

Cities that make it to the next phase are eligible for up to $30 million.

A 2011 flood caused nearly $700 million in damage in the area.