Klickitat County and Cities Declare COVID-19 State of Emergency

On Saturday, March 14, 2020, at approximately 3:45 p.m., the Board of County Commissioners Chairman Rex Johnston, along with Goldendale Mayor Mike Canon and Bingen Mayor Betty Barnes, verbally issued Declarations of Emergency, joining White Salmon Mayor Marla Keethler, who had issued their declaration on March 13, 2020.

This important step opens up support services to all the local communities in the county, including emergency services and health care facilities. Through the proclamations, various measures are allowed to streamline purchasing, government operations, and other efficiencies to provide for public safety.  

Klickitat County and local city governments of Bingen, Goldendale, and White Salmon have maintained a proactive stance for over two weeks in anticipation of any person being diagnosed with COVID-19. These declarations provide for additional coordination between local and county government in their efforts to inform, serve, and protect the public.

In support of the Emergency Declarations, Klickitat County Emergency Management's Emergency Operations Center continues its partial activation, with additional staffing to upgrade its operational support roles. 

In response to recommendations on social distancing provided by the CDC, the Washington State Department of Health, and the Klickitat County Health Department, Mike Canon, Mayor of Goldendale, advised that the city is looking to conduct city council meetings by telephone in an effort to minimize group gatherings.  More information about this change will be forthcoming.