Oregon Governor Tina Kotek, accompanied by First Lady Aimee Kotek Wilson, has recently surveyed the severe flooding that cascaded through Harney County, leaving a trail of damage in its wake. The governor's tour included visits to Burns and the Burns Paiute Reservation, which have both been hard-hit by the floods. Kotek has pledged to actively secure both federal and state aid to assist the flood-ravaged communities, according to information from the Governor's Office press release.
The governor announced a commitment to immediately provide $40,000 to help cover landfill fees for residents disposing of flood debris. Additionally, she plans to collaborate closely with local legislators and Oregon's Congressional delegation to ensure the communities have the resources needed to fully recover. "I’m heartbroken to see the devastation in this community. While the flood waters are receding, the recovery is just beginning. And it’s a long game," Governor Kotek said in a statement obtained by Oregon.gov. She added, "People on the ground here are inspiring," and expressed her determination "to fight for every federal and state recovery dollar I can."
Joining Kotek's visit were several officials, including Representative Mark Owens, Oregon National Guard Adjutant General Gronewold, and Colonel Russel Gibson. General Gronewold noted the importance of solidarity, stating, "That’s what teamwork is all about here, Oregonians supporting Oregonians." Their itinerary started at the Red Cross Shelter at the Burns Fairgrounds, where they met with displaced individuals and thanked volunteers who had distributed meals and cleaning kits to aid in the recovery process.
As the flood recovery efforts continue, the Oregon Department of Human Services has sprung into action, providing essential supplies such as porta-potties to the shelter. Over 295 meals have been served, and more than 467 house-cleaning kits have been distributed thus far. The state officials also took time to meet with tribal leaders and members of the Burns Paiute Tribe to assess the impact of the floods and to discuss long-term recovery strategies. "The visit to Wadatika's homelands could not have happened at a better time," Burns Paiute Chair Tracy Kennedy told Oregon.gov, emphasizing the community's appreciation for the state's attention to their immediate and ongoing concerns.
The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) is actively preparing for recovery operations while remaining alert to any evolving conditions. After Governor Kotek's directive, OEM requested a Joint Preliminary Damage Assessment for Individual Assistance from FEMA for Harney County on April 9th, which was acknowledged on the same day. This assessment is a pivotal move toward obtaining a Presidential Disaster Declaration and unlocking additional aid for businesses and individuals affected by the floods. The assessment process is also underway for Coos, Curry, and Douglas counties, as local officials work with the OEM and federal agencies to document flood-related impacts.
