Council approves interlocal with Swinomish tribe for public‑works mutual assistance

Anacortes — The City Council on July 7 approved an interlocal agreement with the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community to provide mutual public‑works assistance during emergencies and to enable the city and tribe to recover costs when appropriate.

Public Works Director Andy Rayum said mutual aid agreements are a best practice for neighboring jurisdictions because public‑works crews and parts can be scarce during incidents. He noted the agreement mirrors similar arrangements the city maintains with other jurisdictions and that cost recoupment language is important where expenses would otherwise be overlooked during emergency response.

Councilmember Walters moved to authorize the mayor to sign the interlocal; Councilmember Young seconded and the motion passed on voice/roll call vote.

Why it matters: Mutual‑aid interlocals facilitate faster, coordinated response to flooding, infrastructure damage, or other public‑works emergencies and provide a contractual basis for cost recovery.

Ending: The agreement is in effect following council approval; Public Works will coordinate mutual‑aid procedures with Swinomish tribal staff as needed.