Summary

Today, King County Councilmembers Reagan Dunn and Larry Gossett introduced a motion that would provide relief to the people of the Bahamas in the wake of Hurricane Dorian.

Story

Today, King County Councilmembers Reagan Dunn and Larry Gossett introduced a motion that would provide relief to the people of the Bahamas in the wake of Hurricane Dorian.

This legislation aims to allow County employees to donate their vacation time in the form of a cash donation to victims of natural disasters. Additionally, it requests research into other ways that King County could provide disaster relief to the Bahamas, such as by providing personnel, technical expertise, or medical supplies to aid relief efforts.

“It is the American way to give generously when we see others in need,” Dunn said. “This donation program gives King County employees a means to help Bahamian families and communities who have a long recovery ahead.”

A part of King County code allows for the conversion of vacation time into donations to nonprofits.

“King County and our employees have a long history in helping people around the world and in the US in the face of devastating natural disasters,” Gossett said. “I hope our employees will give generously to the people of the Bahamas in their time of need and in their efforts to rebuild their communities and their country.”

Hurricane Dorian was a Category 5 hurricane that devastated the Bahamas when it struck the islands of Great Abaco, Grand Bahama, and others on September 1. The hurricane was one of the strongest Atlantic storms on record. As of Thursday, September 12, the Bahamas Health Minister has confirmed that 50 people have died as a result of the storm, and thousands of people are still missing. Officials estimate that approximately 70,000 people are left without homes.

The legislation will be presented to the King County Council on Wednesday, September 18.