WHITE CENTER, Wash. — Businesses destroyed in a July fire in a White Center strip mall now qualify for federal loans intended to help rebuild the local economy.
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) deemed the White Center fire an "Economic Injury Disaster" qualifying affected business owners for up to $2 million in low-interest loans, according to a press release from King County Executive Dow Constantine's office.
Business owners who have suffered from "substantial economic injury" can apply for the loans. Businesses that are unable to meet their obligations or pay ordinary and necessary operating expenses qualify.
“We are thankful for the federal government declaring an Economic Injury Disaster for White Center, helping open the door to much-needed aid," Constantine said in a release. “King County is doing everything we can to help the families and businesses rebuild, get back on their feet, and start a new chapter in White Center."
July’s fire destroyed The Lumber Yard Bar, an LGBTQ+ bar that since has made plans to return to the main strip of town. A second fire in September damaged the White Center Deli and the Bizzaro Italian Café along with minor damage to surrounding businesses.
July’s fire is being investigated as arson while September’s was caused due to “discarded smoking material” according to fire investigators. No arrest has been made in either case.
Several fundraisers popped up following the fires and community members hosted a street fair with proceeds going toward helping businesses rebuild.
King County says it has helped channel nearly $108,000 in small business grant money directly to fire-affected businesses.