Office of Governor Gary Locke
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - August 10, 2000
Contact:  Governor's Communications Office, 360-902-4136

Locke seeks federal assistance for Okanogan fire victims

OLYMPIA - Gov. Gary Locke today requested U.S. Small Business Administration disaster relief for Okanogan County residents whose homes and businesses were damaged or destroyed in last month's Rocky Hull fire.

Lightening ignited the fire on July 22. It burned 9,404 acres in northcentral Okanogan County between Tonasket and Oroville. The fire was contained July 26.

More than 35 residences and businesses were destroyed or damaged significantly. Numerous secondary homes also were destroyed or damaged.

"Many Mount Hull residents lost homes as well as their livelihoods in the fire," Locke said. "A number of the victims lack the resources to cover these losses. SBA assistance can provide low interest loans to help individuals and businesses recover."

Citizens seeking SBA assistance should call Chuck Hagerhjelm, of the Washington Emergency Management Division at (253) 512-7071.

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