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Spokane: City Council Members Commends Unified Wildfire Response

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~ Spokane City Council Members Urge Community to Stay Vigilant Amid Wildfire Emergency

As the Spokane-area wildfire emergency continues, members of the Spokane City Council are expressing their gratitude to the numerous individuals and organizations working tirelessly to protect lives and property. Firefighters, law enforcement officers, emergency medical personnel, public works crews, utility workers, volunteers, and community members have all come together to combat the ongoing fires.

While some progress has been made in certain areas, officials are cautioning that the emergency is far from over. Active fires such as the Old Trails Fire, Autumn Lane Fire, and Nine Mile Fire still pose a threat. Additionally, changing weather conditions including wind and airborne embers continue to create dangerous situations. As a result, residents are being urged to remain vigilant and be prepared to evacuate if necessary.

Council President Betsy Wilkerson commended the coordinated efforts of city, county, state, and federal partners in responding to the crisis. "Over the weekend, we have seen a unified emergency management response in action," she stated. "The City and Spokane County officials continue to work together to coordinate resources for both immediate response and long-term recovery."

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As response efforts continue, residents can expect to see members of the National Guard assisting with traffic control, security, and public safety in affected areas. Their presence is intended to support local first responders and help protect evacuated neighborhoods.

Council Member Zack Zappone emphasized that the National Guard's role is solely focused on fire safety. "They are not here to collaborate with or report to ICE during recovery efforts," he clarified. "Their purpose is solely to assist with protecting our community from this devastating wildfire."

The impact of these fires has been significant for many residents in the area. More than 60,000 people have been affected by evacuation orders and hundreds have sought refuge at emergency shelters at The Spokane Convention Center. Officials are on the ground assessing community needs such as food, water, medical supplies, behavioral health support, and temporary housing.

Despite the desire to return home or check on loved ones, residents are reminded that evacuation orders are in place for their safety. Access to evacuated areas will only be restored when emergency responders deem it safe. The Spokane Regional Emergency Communications (SREC) system and official city and county communications will provide updated information and re-entry guidance.

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For those affected by the wildfires, resources are available throughout the Spokane region. The Red Cross is providing evacuation services at the Spokane Convention Center, with free parking and accommodations for pets. Spokane Public Schools is offering free emergency drop-in camps for children 4 years and older to assist families from Nine Mile Falls, Mead, and Spokane Public Schools. The YMCA of the Inland Northwest is also offering personal care services such as showers at their North, South, Valley, and Central locations.

Community members who wish to help can contribute through established organizations such as 2nd Harvest Inland NW for non-perishable food donations or Innovia Foundation's Wildfire relief efforts for financial donations. Additionally, The City of Spokane has set up a temporary Wildfire Relief Fund through the H.O.M.E. Starts Here Fund.

Council Member Kitty Klitzke acknowledged the strength of the community in times of crisis. "The willingness to care for one another has always been a defining characteristic of Spokane," she said. "Even in the face of unimaginable loss, our community has shown extraordinary resilience, compassion, and courage. We remain committed to supporting every resident through response, recovery, and rebuilding."

For more information on recovery and support efforts, residents can visit the city's website for up-to-date information or watch the press conference held on Sunday with elected officials for a comprehensive report on the Spokane Complex Fire.

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