Lincoln County commissioners adopt emergency declaration to secure state trailer for flood response

The Lincoln County Board of Commissioners voted May 8 to adopt a declaration of emergency aimed at speeding local flood-mitigation efforts and accessing state resources. The special meeting was called to order at 1:00 p.m. from the Afton Emergency Operations Center.

Commissioner Connelly moved to approve a consent agenda item tied to flooding mitigation; the motion was adopted. Commissioner Bowers then moved to approve a Resolution Issuing a Declaration of Emergency. Commissioner Connelly seconded and clarified that the resolution covers emergency flooding and authorizes outreach for potential federal assistance. The board adopted the resolution.

Chairman Hansen said the immediate operational purpose of the declaration is to allow Emergency Management Coordinator Jay Hokanson to use an emergency trailer to assist response operations in Cokeville. According to meeting minutes, the declaration is intended to enable access to state resources now — specifically the trailer — and to preserve the option of additional aid if conditions warrant.

Duke Dance of SVI Media asked whether the action constituted a state of emergency. Chairman Hansen responded that the primary goal is to secure state resources for current flooding mitigation, with the possibility of seeking further assistance later.

The meeting was brief; the board adjourned at 1:08 p.m. Minutes note that any amendments or corrections will be recorded in the next meeting’s minutes.