Gov. Newsom signs executive order to help Tulare Lake Basin flood response
The basin has experienced extreme flooding since storms began in February. It is expected to get worse as the snowpack melts.
KINGS COUNTY, Calif. (KFSN) -- Governor Gavin Newsom signed an executive order on Friday to help those impacted by flooding in the Tulare Lake Basin.
Officials in Kings County say this is welcome news, but they are pleading for him to visit the hard-hit area.
"Begging the governor. With all respect, sir, please come to Corcoran," said Kings County Supervisor Richard Valle.
He pleaded for Governor Gavin Newsom to visit the city after the Governor issued an executive order Friday morning to assist those impacted by the Tulare Lake Basin flooding.
"This executive order today is a ripple of hope. It's hope that the community needs right now. Knowing that the Governor is watching, he is aware," said Valle.
He said the Tulare Lake basin filling up has a ripple effect, hurting more than just the Ag industry.
"Even if this city doesn't see an inch of water in here, there's a lot of Ag jobs that's gonna be lost. These smalls businesses behind me, they're gonna be impacted," said Valle.
He said there are already billions of dollars of losses piling up. A flooding Corcoran would be devastating, especially after so many had a hard time during COVID.
"Anytime you can resource, both financial and boots on the ground to a situation that could potentially be catastrophic is important," said Nate Ferrier, Public Information Officer with the Kings County Sheriff's Office.
Ferrier is also urging the governor to visit the area as they work to keep water diverted.
Valle says he sent a letter to the governor's office on Tuesday.
He's in contact with Newsom's team and hopes to get him here soon.
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