November Policy Committee Meeting Update

Some of you have heard and are very concerned about the impacts of the potential flooding in the Green River Valley. WFSE has about 800 member families living in the area and they work in almost every agency and sub-division that we represent. Should the repairs to the Howard Hansen Dam fail, the flooding could close Highway 167 and portions of I-5. The amount of water flowing is estimated in the tens of thousands of cubic feet per second. They are counting on the ability to predict a "pineapple express" weather event to determine emergency evacuation instructions. I have been very alarmed about the potential impact to our members and the programs citizens depend upon and that we provide. Some of the agencies have moved offices out of the way. Others are considering back up plans for services. As you know sandbagging and other methods are being used to try to mitigate any potential damage. There is a sewage plant, major storage warehouses, farms, and vital traffic routes potentially overwhelmed by the flood waters. Supply routes, drinking water, emergency housing, one can only scratch the surface of the issues our members could face.

DSHS has had an informational meeting on this topic at the statewide level. In addition, Sue Henricksen, Daniel D'Haem, Gordon Ely, and I were allowed to attend a management emergency table top exercise on response to the potential crisis.

As a result of the statewide meeting, Sue Bush has agreed to come to Saturday's Policy Committee meeting to provide information to our members. Sue Bush is working with Emergency Management and DSHS to help prepare for an emergency event related to the dam failure.

Sue Bush is also helping to prepare for the potential impacts of the Swine Flu pandemic in Washington State. The combination of lay offs, cut backs, and the number of workers potentially out sick with this flu may very well create a different kind of crisis. Management in every agency is looking at how to protect their workers, how to identify and accomplish the vital services, and what to do if schools and day cares close due to the pandemic. Management will have to determine what work must get done and what work can be reduced or eliminated. We must learn how to protect ourselves and how to prepare our families.

The presentation will be held in the main room at 9 am prior to the Plenary Session of the Policy Committee Meeting. All members are welcome to attend this portion of the Policy Committee group.