Summit speakers urge mutual aid as California counties battle wildfires

President Gibson opened closing remarks at a Sonoma summit hosted by SESAC, reflecting on recovery work and community efforts following recent wildfires. "We are wrapping up a wonderful summit meeting here in Sonoma where SESAC has hosted representatives from the county of Maui, and we've heard inspiring stories of their efforts to respond and recover from their devastating wildfire," President Gibson said.

An unidentified attendee endorsed those remarks and emphasized the practical importance of inter-county assistance. "This really underscores the great value of mutual aid, and helping each other out in the midst of the crisis," the attendee said, adding that mutual aid is how counties and local governments best support one another.

The same speaker warned that the threat is ongoing: "Right now at this very moment, there are half a dozen counties in California that are facing substantial fires in their communities and certainly, have need for mutual aid." The attendee urged continuation of mutual-aid traditions across county, state and local governments "and us stepping forward, as much as we can to support those who need it the most."

Concluding the session, the unidentified speaker offered organizational support and appreciation: "If CSAC can do anything that is helpful to you, please reach out to us, and thank you all for your incredible service to your communities." The remark referenced the California State Association of Counties (CSAC) by its acronym in the session and offered a point of contact for counties seeking assistance.

The summit closed with expressions of gratitude and a call for ongoing cooperative response as multiple counties confront active wildfires.