Pacific council ratifies emergency actions and hears flood concerns from residents

City of Pacific council members unanimously approved a ratification of emergency action related to recent flooding at their Jan. 12 meeting and discussed follow-up measures raised in public comment. Resolution 2026-1020 (AB26-004) to ratify emergency action passed 7-0 by roll call, and the council approved related and routine infrastructure contracts, including a replacement pump for the reservoir system (Resolution 2026-1021) and amendments tied to the West Valley Highway project and a Score Jail contract.

During the public comment period, residents pressed for clarity and immediate help. Robert Jenkins (328 White River Drive) asked for specifics on flood mitigation numbers, why the warehouse area did not flood, future river construction plans and current elevations downstream of the park. Amber Garber (313 White River Drive) asked whether dumpsters would return for residents who delayed cleanup while crawl spaces dried and when sandbags would be picked up. Council Member Petersen proposed creating a "zero tolerance" policy to protect Hesco flood walls to prevent vandalism and future breaches.

Mark Goss (603 3rd Ave SE) said he did not want the river dredged, noting he has seen salmon in the White River and recounted prior flood events; the comment frames a community concern about river management approaches. Mayor Kave and council members thanked volunteers and staff for the response effort, crediting specific council members with actions that helped stop a breach.

The council’s unanimous ratification of emergency procedures formalizes actions taken during the recent flood response; staff will carry out contract work and return with implementation updates as required by the approved contracts and reporting processes.