Assembly Passes Measures to Enable Support for Western Alaska Evacuees

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​At a special meeting this afternoon, the Assembly unanimously passed EO 2025-1, an emergency ordinance to enable municipal technical assistance support to the state's response and relief efforts for residents of Western Alaska displaced by Typhoon Halong. The storm devastated large portions of the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta region, forcing many families to evacuate to Anchorage.

Following Assembly action, Mayor LaFrance issued a Proclamation of Emergency, effective immediately, to mobilize resources and coordinate with partners to meet urgent needs.

Several state and local leaders joined the meeting, including House Speaker Bryce Edgmon (House District 37), Representative Nellie Unangiq Jimmie (House District 38), Dr. Jharrett Bryantt, Superintendent of the Anchorage School District, and School Board President Carl Jacobs, who each provided updates on relief efforts and outlined current needs.

"What you are doing here - you're making space, kindness, and resources, and compassion. That really matters," said Rep. Nellie Unangiq Jimmie, who represents the communities most affected by the storm. "You are showing my people, my relatives, my constituents that even though they are far from home, this is still Alaska land and they are amongst families."

Speaker Bryce Edgmon expressed gratitude to Anchorage for its swift response and compassion, noting that residents from as many as 15 villages have been affected. He added that a federal disaster declaration is expected soon to bolster ongoing recovery efforts.

The Assembly also unanimously passed AR 2025-318, a resolution extending the Mayor's proclamation of a civil emergency to December 17, 2025, and allowing the Municipality to keep the Comprehensive Emergency Operations Plan and Emergency Operations Center activated to address the ongoing public health, safety, and welfare issues resulting from this disaster impacting thousands of Alaskans.

"It's heartbreaking to see our neighbors displaced from their homes, communities, and traditions," said Assembly Chair Christopher Constant. "I especially feel for the children who are missing school and the only homes they've ever known. I'm proud that Anchorage is standing with our Western Alaska neighbors and doing everything we can to offer support."

"This is a difficult time for our entire state, but it's heartening to see leaders from so many governments, tribes, organizations, and businesses working together to help," said Assembly Vice Chair Anna Brawley. "Chair Constant and I are grateful to our fellow Assembly Members for their quick and decisive action, and to the Mayor, the Anchorage Office of Emergency Management, and all municipal staff who are working tirelessly to create a welcoming place for our displaced neighbors."

Assembly Leadership encourages residents to follow the Anchorage Office of Emergency Management on social media to get updates on the Municipality's response to the disaster and how residents can help.

Together with Mayor LaFrance, the Assembly calls on all Anchorage residents to extend kindness, hospitality, and unity as we welcome those displaced by the storm.​​​