Walla Walla County declares emergency after February flooding; authorizes spending and contracts

The Walla Walla County Board of County Commissioners voted 3-0 on Feb. 25, 2025, to declare a non-debatable emergency for a February 2025 flooding event, authorizing county departments to enter into contracts and spend necessary funds to protect the health, safety and property of residents.

County leaders said the action responds to rising water caused by melting snow and heavy rain. The board approved adding the emergency declaration to the agenda before voting on the measure.

The declaration was approved by voice vote with all three commissioners recorded as voting in favor. A motion to declare the emergency was made and seconded; the board recorded the outcome as 3-0 in favor. The commissioners present at the meeting were Chairman Fulmer, Commissioner Kimball and Commissioner Clayton; Diane served in a recorder role and conducted roll call.

There were no members of the public who requested to speak during the public comment period. Earlier in the meeting the board approved a revised agenda that added the emergency declaration; that procedural motion also passed by voice vote. The meeting concluded after the emergency declaration with a motion to adjourn, which carried 3-0.

The declaration authorizes county departments to take immediate steps, including entering contracts and spending funds as needed, to respond to flooding impacts. The board did not specify dollar amounts, timelines for contracting, or departmental implementation details during the meeting.

The board did not reference a specific statute or ordinance on the record when making the declaration, and no public comment on the substance of the emergency was recorded during the meeting. The board set no additional public hearings or follow-up dates during the session and adjourned following the vote.