U.S. Rep. Greg Walden (R-Hood River) was in Umatilla County on Friday to discuss with local officials both the region’s recent flooding and the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.
First, Walden held a meeting with local officials on the recent flooding in Umatilla County. At the meeting, Sheriff Terry Rowan gave participants a play-by-play of the flooding.
After the discussion, Walden toured the area’s flood damage. The tour was led by Pendleton Mayor John Turner, County Commissioner John Shafer, and Rowan. The group surveyed the Pendleton Industrial Park, residential areas, and other impacted spots around town.
Later in the day, Walden held a meeting with local public health officials on COVID-19. On March 2, the Oregon Health Authority announced a case of COVID-19 in Umatilla County.
“I have nothing but praise for the emergency workers, tribal and county health offices, and the tribal and local elected officials, who have calmly and effectively dealt with the flood and the coronavirus outbreak,” said Walden. “I’m thankful for them taking time to brief me on both, and I will do all I can to help once the state submits its request to FEMA.”
