ROWENA — After completing the first phase of hazardous debris removal, phase two of the state-backed Rowena Fire cleanup effort is delayed because of insufficient funding, the Wasco County Sheriff’s Office announced on Aug. 8.
With an estimated cost of $5.5 million, Wasco County is working with local officials and state legislators to secure additional resources for the second phase, according to Public Information Officer Stephanie Krell. One potential funding source is through the Oregon Emergency Board, and while state agencies are preparing that request, the timeline for approval is uncertain.
“I’m very disappointed that it went like this. It’s frustrating because we’ve been telling people that both of the phases were going to be taken care of, and now that’s changed,” said Krell. “We’re still advocating for them as much as we can.”
The second phase is meant to address ash and all other non-hazardous materials, cleared by Oregon’s Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) and private contractors vetted by the agency, as Columbia Gorge News previously reported. The Rowena Fire burned 61 residences and 91 outbuildings, and the majority of property owners have signed up for the no-cost service.
Oregon does not have a dedicated debris removal fund, so the State Legislature must authorize any new money on a case-by-case basis, according to Erin Zysett, a public information officer with Oregon’s Department of Emergency Management. The legislature is currently on recess until a special session begins Aug. 29, which will largely involve closing the Department of Transportation’s budgetary hole, but the emergency board is authorized to sign off on expenditures during the interim.
Zysett noted that Gov. Tina Kotek has pledged to secure $1.5 million for Wasco County and remains optimistic for legislative support. For those wishing to move forward, the county and state are encouraging residents to consult with their insurance companies or hire their own private contractors.
“Insurance policies may cover some or all of the cleanup costs, and residents should be connecting with their insurance agents as soon as possible to discuss their current situation and learn about next steps,” said Zysett. “If they still have questions or concerns, the Division of Financial Regulation’s consumer advocates are here to help.”
To connect with the advocacy team, call 888-877-4894 or visit www.dfr.oregon.gov/help. Additionally, low-interest loans of up to $500,000 for homeowners rebuilding their primary residence and up to $100,000 for the replacement or repair of personal property, including cars, furniture, appliances and clothing, are available through the Small Business Association. For more information, visit www.sba.gov/funding-programs/disaster-assistance.
Visit Wasco County’s Rowena Fire Recovery Page, www.co.wasco.or.us/index.php (use the arrows to locate the appropriate “Learn More” button), for more resources. The county is in the process of organizing a temporary housing site and forming a dedicated long-term recovery group to assist affected residents.
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