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Home > News

Rep. McDermott Pledges Assistance on Howard Hanson Dam

September 11, 2009

Following a tour and briefing of Howard Hanson Dam, Rep. Jim McDermott told local government leaders that he is deeply concerned about the threat to lives and property posed by a large release of water in response to heavy rains and said in a letter, “…I stand ready to offer all appropriate assistance.”  A copy of a letter the congressman sent to the Metropolitan King County Council, County Executive, and area Mayors is attached.

While the dam itself is not in the 7th Congressional District, the flooding from a large release clearly would affect constituents.  The congressman urged anyone potentially affected to review their property insurance policies and to recognize that homeowner policies do not cover flooding, and to explore the purchase of federal flood insurance, which requires 30 days before taking effect.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and others are working expeditiously to make repairs to strengthen the structural integrity of the dam; meanwhile, steps are being taken to prepare for possible flooding as a precautionary measure.  Also as a pre-cautionary measure, the congressman noted that just today King County pre-declared an emergency and the congressman supports advance steps being taken locally and at the state level by the governor.

Read a copy of the letter