Office of Governor Gary Locke
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - June 11, 2002
Contact:  Governor's Communications Office, 360-902-4136

Locke requests federal economic aid for fire-damaged Friday Harbor businesses

OLYMPIA – Gov. Gary Locke late yesterday asked the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to declare an emergency economic injury disaster to assist Friday Harbor business owners affected by the devastating fire there on May 9.

The fire, which destroyed five businesses, also caused a large decline in retail sales to other businesses in the immediate area.

Locke made the request after inspecting damage to local businesses from the massive fire during a May 20 trip to Friday Harbor.

“The declaration can be a major boost in helping local shop owners recover from the devastating fire,” said Locke. “I will urge the SBA to take prompt action on this request so shop owners can apply for low-interest loans to obtain working capital for their businesses.”

In his letter to the SBA, Locke noted that Friday Harbor businesses suffered substantial economic injury as a result of the fire, and were in need of financial assistance “not otherwise available on reasonable terms.” The governor also noted that the fire “caused a large decline in retail sales for numerous other businesses, just as the tourist season began.” Friday Harbor businesses rely on sales in the tourist season for a significant piece of their annual revenues.

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Related Links:
- U.S. Small Business Administration

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