Gov. Mike Dunleavy has authorized a Disaster Declaration for the Tuluksak water system fire that occurred on January 16, 2021.
The Disaster Declaration activates the State of Alaska Public Assistance program, which is designed to aid communities, government relations, and some non-profits make repairs to utilities, public buildings, and other critical infrastructure damaged by the declared event. The Public Assistance Disaster Declaration will also reimburse communities and agencies for eligible response costs associated with the declared disaster.
The authorization of the Disaster Declaration follows the aid of the state of Alaska, the Tuluksak Native Community, federal and local partners to ensure the village had no shortage of drinking water following the water treatment plant and washeteria destruction. Short term and immediate measures will be provided in establishing temporary watering facilities and other processes to provide the community with potable water.
Gov. Mike Dunleavy said, “I approved the disaster declaration requested by the Tuluksak Native Community, giving us an additional, long-term tool as we work toward recovery.”
Residents in the community currently have access to bottled water, which was donated to the community and is available for purchase in the community store. Air service is operational, and the ice road to Bethel and other communities provides access to potable water. A multi-agency group continues to develop solutions to the water issues the community is currently plagued with.
The move by the Dunleavy Administration follows calls from the Alaska Bush Caucus to issue a formal disaster declaration. They include calls from Reps. Tiffany Zulkosky, Bryce Edgemon, Neal Foster, Josiah Patkotak and Donny Olson.