To: Local Media, Fire Stations and Community Groups

Statement from Commissioners Kevin O’Sullivan, Cathy Wolfe and Diane Oberquell

We are saddened by the news this morning of a major terrorist attack on the east coast of the United States.  In response to the events, the Thurston County Emergency Operations Center was immediately activated at a stand-by level and is in contact with the state Emergency Management Division at Camp Murray.  We are working with the state, law enforcement and other local jurisdictions in case a more heightened level of response is needed.  However, it should be noted that we have no information regarding any terrorist threat to the Thurston County area at this time. County Commission Chair Kevin O’Sullivan says, “We stand ready to respond should we receive any confirmed information of threatening activity.”

Commissioner Cathy Wolfe says, “We send our condolences to the families and friends of the victims in New York, Pennsylvania and Washington D. C.  We also want to give our deepest sympathies to any Thurston County resident who has lost someone due to this tragic event”.

Commissioner Diane Oberquell was attending a conference in Central Washington, but was returning to Thurston County as a result of this unfortunate incident.  She also expresses sympathy for those who lost their lives or were otherwise impacted by the tragedy.

O’Sullivan says, “In the meantime, we are expecting County Employees to continue to provide services in a routine manner. It’s important for us to take care of the business of the citizens in this time of emergency elsewhere.”