Thursday, March 28, 2024

Gov. Jay Inslee tours Pateros water works, fire exhibit

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PATEROS – Washington State Governor and 2020 Democratic Presidential candidate Jay Inslee paid  a visit to Pateros last Friday, July 19, to tour the city’s new water and reservoir system and make a side visit to the Smoke and Reflections exhibit documenting the 2014-15 Carlton Complex and Okanogan Complex wildfires.

Pateros mayor Carlene Anders said the governor’s visit was the result of an invitation extended by the city more than a year ago to inspect the new water works and participate in a ribbon cutting dedication at the same time. Unfortunately, a wellhouse contract rebidearlier this year caused a delay in the expected completion of the project that the city hoped to have completed by Apple Pie Jamboree.

Inslee and party also toured some of the fire damaged areas in the upper valley around Twisp. Among those accompanying the governor were 12th District State Representatives Mike Steele, and Keith Goehner, and Okanogan County Commissioner Andy Hover.

Anders said she got the opportunity to speak to the governor at some length about wildfire issues and the need for improved emergency communications in the county.

The Smoke and Reflections is currently housed at 170 Pateros Mall and includes an informative slide presentation among the hundreds of articles, photos, testimonials, artifacts and art depicting the fires and their aftermath. Anders said discussions are underway to extend the exhibit beyond its original short-term run until perhaps Labor Day to give more groups an opportunity to visit the display. Parties interested in arranging a visit to the Smoke and Reflections exhibit are invited to contact Anders at (509) 733-0318 to schedule a viewing time.

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