washoe County building and safety officials continue policy of mutual aid to fernley citizens
Reno, Nevada. January 9, 2008. Washoe County personnel are part of the cavalry of local government who are assisting Fernley in their recovery efforts from last weekend’s devastating flood which affected so many residents in that area.
When the Fernley disaster initially hit, the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office deployed search and rescue personnel to aid local first responders in rescuing residents from their flooded homes. Subsequently, Washoe County Building and Safety officials sent six employees to assist Fernley Building officials with damage assessment and administrative work.
Washoe County Building and Safety Director Don Jeppson spoke about his Department’s philosophy of assistance. "We have a standing policy of supporting our fellow jurisdictions during times of emergency," Jeppson states. "During last summer’s South Lake Tahoe fire, we offered help to El Dorado County, and in the past, the local building departments have also mutually supported each other during flood and snow events. We know that our counterparts would also help us out during difficult times to ensure public safety and well-being."
In addition, Washoe County’s Roads Director Bill Oroszi has offered street sweeper equipment to Fernley along with personnel to operate it. To speak to a Washoe County Building and Safety employee currently working in Fernley, please contact Building and Safety Director Don Jeppson directly at 775-328-2030.