Flood Response Update and Recovery Resources for Whatcom County

I know people are scared and looking for answers, so I want to be clear about what support is available, what work is underway, and what I’m doing right now.

During this past week I have been in direct contact with state, local, and congressional leaders, including Governor Bob Ferguson, US Senator Maria Cantwell and Congressman Rick Larsen, to coordinate response efforts and push hard for resources. I have also been in regular contact with local officials and emergency managers, staying close to what communities throughout Whatcom County need on the ground, and lifting up gaps we must address — both immediately and for the long term.

And like so many who have stepped up throughout our community, I have also delivered meals, helped distribute sandbags, and assisted neighbors in cleaning out their homes, because showing up matters in moments like this. I will continue to do this work in the days ahead to assist our community to the best of my ability.

I became your state representative in the immediate aftermath of the flooding in 2021, and I am grateful to have worked directly on legislation to strengthen our state’s ability to respond to natural disasters. During my first term I sponsored and passed HB 2020, a bipartisan bill to create a state public infrastructure assistance program to help local governments and tribes repair roads, bridges, and public facilities after disasters when FEMA assistance is not enough. I also sponsored and passed HB 1452 to establish a statewide emergency medical reserve corps to provide communities additional trained volunteers who can support disaster response during challenging moments like this.

But one of my takeaways from the past week is we have plenty more urgent work to do. As your state representative please know that I’ll continue to do everything I can to serve our Whatcom County community – during difficult moments like this, and in collaboration with local, tribal, state, and federal partners to fight for policies and resources that support our community in rebuilding and reducing future risk.

Find resources to support recovery in the days and weeks ahead. Please take care of yourselves, check in on neighbors when it’s safe to do so, and don’t hesitate to reach out for help.