Topeka ? State leaders on Thursday authorized spending $1.2 million to repair damage caused by the March storm that tore through the Kansas University campus.

The microburst caused about $5.5 million in damage to 73 buildings, officials said.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency will pay for more than $4 million in repairs, officials said.

The State Finance Council, which includes Gov. Kathleen Sebelius and legislative leaders, unanimously approved the state expense.

“This turns out to be a very good deal for the state,” said Duane Goossen, who serves as Sebelius’ budget director and secretary of administration.

Sebelius agreed, saying KU succeeded in discussions with FEMA about repair payments.

“The result is very beneficial,” she said.

KU officials said repairs have been completed to 50 of the buildings, but major projects will be bid soon, including an approximately $1 million repair job for the roof at Allen Fieldhouse.

Officials said the roof is safe but that it is leaking in areas.